The Potential of Living Walls to Reduce Dust and Heat in Iraq and the Gulf Region

Abstract

Adverse weather conditions are more and more witnessed in the Middle East, especially in Iraq and the Gulf region, with higher temperature and more frequent dust storms, the matter that is having adverse effects on the life of the people there. These weather conditions are becoming more intense, with mostly little efforts exerted so far to mitigate their effects. In the city of Baghdad in particular these problems are becoming more acute than before as it is considered one of the hottest spots on earth. This city is chosen as the case study of this research to explore what is possible measures and actions are required to improve living conditions in these regions. Modern designs and traditional methods to improve environmental conditions were examined, and it was found that green is one of the best means to mitigate these weather problems, especially that it has health benefits, of low cost, and has aesthetic value. To green the city of Baghdad, living walls are proposed as one of the best methods, especially that there is insufficient vacant land to make parks and public gardens. As water is the key element in the success of the living walls, the available water resources were investigated, and found out that there is sufficient supply of water to ensure the viability of the project. Two main concepts are proposed in this study. The first one is sliding green screens to be placed on balconies and in front of windows, which allows viewing enjoyment and light penetration. The second one is methods of cleaning the dust off these screens, as well as other kinds of green walls. These measures will increase the efficiency of these living walls in filtering the air and reducing the temperature. Designs and description are presented to illustrate how to implement the proposed ideas.