University of Basrah Highlights Geological Reserves and Presents a Vision for Rehabilitating Mount Sanam
As part of its efforts to raise scientific and environmental awareness of the importance of geological heritage and the preservation of exceptionally valuable natural sites, and on the occasion of the International Day for Geological Diversity, the Marine Science Center at the University of Basrah organized a scientific lecture entitled "Geological Reserves and Geological Diversity."
The lecture aimed to introduce the academic and environmental community to the concept of geological diversity and geological reserves, emphasizing their pivotal role in preserving natural heritage and protecting sites of scientific and educational importance from degradation and unsustainable human activities. It also highlighted their potential to support sustainable development and promote geological and ecotourism.
The lecture, delivered by Hiba Khalid, a faculty member in the Department of Earth Sciences at the College of Science, included a review of the fundamental components of geological diversity. These components encompass the diversity of rocks, minerals, geological structures, landforms, and the natural processes responsible for their formation over time. The lecture focused particularly on Mount Sanam, located in the Safwan district of Basra Governorate, as a unique geological landmark in southern Iraq. A comprehensive scientific vision was presented for its rehabilitation and designation as a natural geological reserve, adhering to environmental and economic standards that preserve its heritage value and leverage its potential for scientific research, university education, and sustainable ecotourism.
The lecture also addressed the importance of adopting comprehensive strategies to document geological sites of exceptional value in Iraq, conducting specialized studies to assess them, and developing management plans to protect them from natural degradation and unplanned human interventions. Emphasis was placed on promoting geological culture and public awareness, and highlighting the pivotal role of the University of Basrah and its research centers in providing the necessary scientific consultations and insights for developing natural heritage protection programs and fostering integration between scientific research, environmental planning, and tourism development.
Department of Media and Government Communication
