Iraq follows Russia, Iran as largest gas-flaring country in 2025

In 2025, Iraq has emerged as one of the top three countries for gas flaring, a practice where associated petroleum gas is burned off instead of being captured and utilized, following Russia and Iran. This development highlights significant environmental and economic concerns, as flaring not only wastes a valuable natural resource but also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The situation underscores the urgent need for improved gas capture and utilization technologies in Iraq, which could mitigate environmental damage while boosting economic returns from its substantial oil and gas reserves.