Al-Ayen Iraqi University – SDG 14 Progress Report (2024)

1. Introduction and Overview 

This report highlights the research contributions of Al-Ayen Iraqi University (AUIQ) for the period 2024 that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water. This goal aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. The research initiatives by AUIQ researchers address various challenges related to marine ecosystems, pollution, and sustainable water management.

2. Detailed SDGs Contributions: 

*Initiatives and Activities: 

1. Hamad Abdullah Shaher from the College of Engineering Technology at Al-Ayen Iraqi University held his first photography exhibition titled “The Beauty of the Marshes between its Dryness and Greenery.” The event, attended by Prof. Dr. Haider A. Marhoon and college leadership, showcased stunning images reflecting the environmental and cultural richness of Iraq’s marshes. This initiative supports SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and promotes awareness of sustainable ecosystem preservation.

Link: https://en.alayen.edu.iq/news/details/3055

2. In coordination with the Dhi Qar Police Command and the Ministry of Water Resources, the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Al-Ayen Iraqi University organized a field visit to the Al-Chibayish Marshes in Dhi Qar Governorate on Sunday, March 3, 2024. The visit included several key activities, the first of which was a scientific seminar led by Dr. Ammar Zuhair Sabri, Head of the Theoretical Sciences Department at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. The seminar addressed the Ministry of Higher Education’s curricula and the university presidency’s directives on preserving the cultural heritage of the marshes and promoting it as part of the world heritage. This effort contributes to SDG 6 ,  SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14) , and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering a sustainable research environment and supporting innovation within the academic community.

Link: https://alayen.edu.iq/news/details/2074

3. As part of its sustainability and health initiatives, Al-Ayen Iraqi University has installed an advanced water filtration and purification system to ensure clean and safe water for use across campus facilities. This initiative contributes to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by promoting efficient water management and ensuring access to safe, purified water within the university environment.

Overview of Research Contributions for SDG 14

• Source identification and potential health risks from elevated groundwater nitrate contamination in Sundarbans coastal aquifers, India: This study addresses groundwater contamination, which is a crucial element in marine and coastal ecosystem health. Understanding contamination sources helps in mitigating risks to marine life.
• Assessment of petroleum contamination in soil, water, and atmosphere: a comprehensive review: Research on petroleum contamination is vital for addressing pollution in marine environments. This comprehensive review provides insights into pollution prevention and remediation.
• Deciphering morphology patterns of environmental microfibers: Insights into source apportionment: The study on microfibers contributes to understanding pollution sources in marine ecosystems, aiding in the reduction of microplastic contamination.
• Observed and future shifts in climate zone of Borneo based on CMIP6 models: Research predicting climate shifts helps in understanding impacts on marine biodiversity and conservation efforts.
• Predictive modelling of nitrogen dioxide using soft computing techniques in the Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India: Although primarily focused on air quality, the implications of nitrogen dioxide emissions also extend to marine health through water pollution pathways.
• Self-Sustaining Buoy System: Harnessing Water Wave Energy for Smart, Wireless Sensing and Data Transmission: The development of sustainable energy solutions using marine resources aligns with efforts to protect and sustainably use marine ecosystems.
• Heavy metals prediction in coastal marine sediments using hybridized machine learning models with metaheuristic optimization algorithm: This research focuses on predicting and managing heavy metal pollution, a critical concern for marine life preservation.
• Recent advances in using nanomaterials for portable biosensing platforms towards marine toxins application: Up-to-date technology and prospects: Innovations in biosensing technologies for detecting marine toxins contribute directly to protecting marine ecosystems and public health.
• Drinking Water Resources Suitability Assessment Based on Pollution Index of Groundwater Using Improved Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Understanding water quality is crucial for marine ecosystems, as polluted groundwater often flows into coastal and marine areas, affecting marine life.

During the period 2024, Al-Ayen Iraqi University contributed a total of 11 research publications that align with the goals of SDG 14, showcasing its commitment to sustainable development and marine ecosystem conservation.

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SDG 14 Progress Report: Al-Ayen Iraqi University

1. Introduction and Overview

This report highlights the research contributions of Al-Ayen Iraqi University (AUIQ) for the period 2023 that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water. This goal aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. The research initiatives by AUIQ researchers address various challenges related to marine ecosystems, pollution, and sustainable water management.

Overview of Research Contributions for SDG 14

• Source identification and potential health risks from elevated groundwater nitrate contamination in Sundarbans coastal aquifers, India: This study addresses groundwater contamination, which is a crucial element in marine and coastal ecosystem health. Understanding contamination sources helps in mitigating risks to marine life.
• Assessment of petroleum contamination in soil, water, and atmosphere: a comprehensive review: Research on petroleum contamination is vital for addressing pollution in marine environments. This comprehensive review provides insights into pollution prevention and remediation.
• Deciphering morphology patterns of environmental microfibers: Insights into source apportionment: The study on microfibers contributes to understanding pollution sources in marine ecosystems, aiding in the reduction of microplastic contamination.
• Observed and future shifts in climate zone of Borneo based on CMIP6 models: Research predicting climate shifts helps in understanding impacts on marine biodiversity and conservation efforts.
• Predictive modelling of nitrogen dioxide using soft computing techniques in the Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India: Although primarily focused on air quality, the implications of nitrogen dioxide emissions also extend to marine health through water pollution pathways.
• Self-Sustaining Buoy System: Harnessing Water Wave Energy for Smart, Wireless Sensing and Data Transmission: The development of sustainable energy solutions using marine resources aligns with efforts to protect and sustainably use marine ecosystems.
• Heavy metals prediction in coastal marine sediments using hybridized machine learning models with metaheuristic optimization algorithm: This research focuses on predicting and managing heavy metal pollution, a critical concern for marine life preservation.
• Recent advances in using nanomaterials for portable biosensing platforms towards marine toxins application: Up-to-date technology and prospects: Innovations in biosensing technologies for detecting marine toxins contribute directly to protecting marine ecosystems and public health.
• Drinking Water Resources Suitability Assessment Based on Pollution Index of Groundwater Using Improved Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Understanding water quality is crucial for marine ecosystems, as polluted groundwater often flows into coastal and marine areas, affecting marine life.

During the period 2023, Al-Ayen Iraqi University contributed a total of 11 research publications that align with the goals of SDG 14, showcasing its commitment to sustainable development and marine ecosystem conservation.

2. Supporting Documents and Links

References and links to relevant reports, publications, and university web pages that further elaborate on Al-Ayen’s efforts and achievements related to SDG 14.

Link: https://en.alayen.edu.iq/sdj/sub_details/99

The Sustainable Development Goals: Al-Ayen Iraqi University's Evolving Strategy Towards 2027

https://en.alayen.edu.iq/public/en/save_file/files/88168e6e6c98e106163890bee72924b8_.pdf