The Natural History Research and Museum Center at the University of Baghdad, with the support and guidance of the Center’s Director, Assistant Professor Dr. Hanaa Hani Al-Saffar, organized a workshop entitled “Fungal Threats to the Environment” on Monday, June 29, 2026. The workshop was led and presented by Assistant Lecturer Ali Kamel Wanas, in collaboration with Dr. Lubna Majeed Hameed.
Fungi are important organisms in ecosystems, contributing to the decomposition of organic matter and the recycling of nutrients. However, some types of fungi can cause significant environmental, economic, and health damage when they proliferate uncontrollably or contaminate various environments.
The workshop aimed to highlight that despite the vital role of fungi in maintaining ecological balance, some species can pose a real threat to the environment, agriculture, and public health. Therefore, understanding their risks and methods to mitigate their effects is a fundamental step in maintaining the sustainability of ecosystems and natural resources.
The most important recommendations that emerged from the workshop include improving ventilation and reducing humidity in buildings, implementing biological control programs for pathogenic fungi, using molecular techniques for early detection of fungi, and finally, raising environmental awareness about the risks of fungal contamination. This activity contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, and Goal 15: Life on Land.
We wish all the faculty members of our center continued success in serving the community, science, and knowledge.
