Genel has prepared a Biodiversity Management Action Plan that provides a framework for the implementation of the Project’s biodiversity mitigation and management measures during all phases of operations, and this is followed carefully.

Qara Dagh has been internationally recognised as a place of biodiversity importance and is classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA). The KBA spans across 253 km2 and is home to a number of IUCN red list species.

Our aim is to align development work to the International Finance Corporation Performance Standard 6, which represents international best practice for biodiversity management. Genel has prepared a Biodiversity Management Action Plan that provides a framework for the implementation of the Project’s biodiversity mitigation and management measures during all phases of operations, and this is followed carefully by Genel.

For example, before civil work commenced, a comprehensive tree census was done that will allow Genel to rehabilitate and restore degraded habitats following the completion of work. We also work closely with Nature Iraq (the Country’s leading environmental conservation group who are accredited to the United Nations Environment Programme and affiliated to Bird Life International) to ensure the long-term protection and, where possible, enhancement of the ecosystem within the area of our operation.