Global Experts Gather for International Conference on the Vital Zagros Forest
TEHRAN – The Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization is gearing up to host an international conference on the Zagros forest in the upcoming Iranian calendar year, starting March 21. This event aims to foster natural resources diplomacy, which is a key focus for the organization. Rasoul Ashrafipour, an official with the organization, emphasized the intention to invite countries with Mediterranean climates that share similar vegetation to that of the Zagros region, as well as nations with arid and semi-arid climates that have made notable efforts toward environmental preservation.
These statements were made during the announcement of the natural resources and watershed management week, which begins on March 5, under the theme “consensus and empathy for preserving natural resources.”
Discussing the pressing issue of climate change, Ashrafipour noted that meteorological data indicates the rise in temperature within Iran has outpaced the global average, leading to significant impacts on the country’s natural resources. To address these challenges, the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization, in collaboration with the Meteorological Organization, plans to create new documentation over the next six months.
National Week of Natural Resources and Watershed Management
March 5 is celebrated annually as National Tree Planting Day, where saplings are planted across Iran. This event occurs on the fifteenth day of Esfand, the last month of the Iranian calendar, and signifies the start of the National Week of Natural Resources. Additionally, this day has been approved for inclusion on the national calendar as ‘Environmental Protection Education Day.’
Ali Teymouri, the head of the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization, shared vital statistics regarding the country’s natural land. He stated that deserts cover approximately 32 million hectares of the nation’s 134 million hectares of natural land. In contrast, forests and pastures account for 17.5 million hectares and 84 million hectares, respectively.
- Desert Land: 32 million hectares
- Forests: 17.5 million hectares
- Pastures: 84 million hectares
Furthermore, according to the secretary of the national policymaking headquarters for managing sand and dust storms, significant progress has been made in stabilizing 2.5 million hectares of sand dust storm hotspots over the past six years. This initiative has been a collaborative effort with various organizations, particularly the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization.
The hotspots for sand dust storms across 23 provinces cover approximately 35 million hectares and are a major source of dust throughout the country. Ali-Mohammad Tahmasbi, the secretary, highlighted the importance of addressing these issues, especially in Khuzestan province, which is a critical area requiring immediate action.
“About 52 percent of the budget allocated to combat sand and dust storms is dedicated to Khuzestan province,” Tahmasbi noted. He pointed out that one of the significant achievements of the national headquarters includes the stabilization of 120,000 hectares of SDS hotspots in the southeastern part of the province, showcasing successful cooperation among various governmental and institutional bodies.
Strategies for Effective Management
Tahmasbi further stressed the importance of implementing measures tailored to the specific conditions of each region, including factors such as soil type, climate, and available water resources. By adhering to scientific principles, more effective results can be achieved in managing natural resources.
- Regional Adaptation: Tailor strategies based on local conditions.
- Utilize Past Experiences: Learn from previous projects to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Community Involvement: Engage farmers and ranchers in future plans for better implementation.
Through these concerted efforts and a focus on collaboration, the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization aims to enhance the sustainability of Iran’s natural resources while tackling the pressing challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.
As the country prepares for the National Week of Natural Resources, the emphasis on cooperation, education, and adaptive management strategies will play a crucial role in safeguarding Iran’s rich natural heritage for future generations.
