That investigation at these locations wasn't necessary anymore. That is very clearly not correct.

These are ... sites that have a history of contamination, all of which are linked to massive neglect.

Wars, conflicts, instability and the poor environmental management of the previous regime have left their scars on the Iraqi people and the Iraqi environment.

This is a grim prognosis based on business as usual.

More detailed field analysis of soil and water quality is needed to gauge the exact state of rehabilitation.

So it must be a clear signal that, in order to avoid such a disaster, we must deploy technologies and adopt economic measures that are already available and feasible.

On this special United Nations Day, let us take those adequate steps to stop the careless exploitation and destruction of the environment by making the necessary changes in our own lives, in our own attitudes, and in our own behavior. We don't have another thousand years.

An early study in Iraq could either lay these fears to rest or confirm that there are indeed potential risks, which could then be addressed through immediate action.

Putting tourism on a sustainable path is a major challenge, requiring partnership and cooperation within the tourism industry, and between the industry, governments and tourists themselves.