Iraq Nears the End of Associated Gas Flaring Amid Efforts to Halt Billions in Annual Losses

The issue of flaring associated gas from oil production in Iraq represents one of the most prominent accumulated economic and environmental challenges, resulting from a historical reliance on oil extraction without adequate infrastructure for gas processing. This deficiency has caused a strategic waste of a natural resource that could have been utilized to support national power grids or boost financial revenues through exports. In a significant development, parliamentary and official circles have set a timeframe to end this phenomenon for the first time in decades. Former MP Aref Al-Hamami explained that the gas investment process requires advanced technology and time to complete technical aspects, confirming that current projects have achieved high completion rates. It is expected that flaring operations will be completely halted by the end of this year or in the coming few years. Al-Hamami pointed out that the financial losses resulting from flaring are estimated at billions of dollars annually, in addition to severe environmental and health repercussions, particularly in the southern regions. These steps are part of a comprehensive government strategy to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on imports, and cut harmful environmental emissions.