Join the Excitement: 7th National Conference on Forests Set for November!
The upcoming 7th national conference on Iran’s forests promises to be an enlightening event for all stakeholders involved in forest management and conservation. Scheduled for November 5-6, the conference will focus on the theme of “Maintaining sole ownership and integrated management of natural resources with an emphasis on social forestry in Zagros.” It will take place in the southwestern Lorestan province, as reported by IRIB.
This important conference is organized by the Iranian Forestry Association in collaboration with the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization. It aims to address various aspects of forestry, including:
- Forestry and Forest Ecology
- Law and Politics related to Forestry
- Technical and Engineering Subjects in Forest Management
- Forest Genetics and Breeding
- Economic and Social Issues of Forests
- Climate Change Impact on Forests
- Application of New Technologies in Forest Management
The Zagros forests, predominantly located in Lorestan, are one of Iran’s most vital natural resources. They account for a remarkable 40 percent of the nation’s total forest area and play a crucial role in freshwater production across the country. With approximately 14 million hectares of forest area, Iran’s forests cover around 7.5 percent of its land area.
In comparison, the global average per capita forest area stands at 5,600 square meters, while Iran’s current per capita forest area is only about 1,700 square meters. This disparity underscores the need for sustainable forest management practices in Iran.
During an international conference on the sustainable management of Zagros forests held in January, the head of the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization, Ali Teymouri, emphasized the importance of global cooperation. He stated, “Iran has called on international institutions and other countries to help preserve Zagros forests through a comprehensive cooperation program.”
Iran is also renowned for harboring some of the oldest forests in the world. According to Teymouri, 300,000 hectares of Iranian forests are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list, highlighting their global significance.
The geographical location of the Zagros forests contributes to their remarkable biodiversity. These forests are home to over 2,500 plant and animal species that are unique to this region, underscoring their rich biological diversity. Additionally, these forests fulfill vital economic and social roles, providing livelihoods for local communities.
However, the Zagros forests face numerous threats, including:
- Climate Change
- Frequent Wildfires
- Illegal Exploitation
Addressing these environmental challenges is crucial for improving sustainability indicators across the region. Teymouri highlighted the need for developing international collaborations aimed at:
- Providing Technical Support
- Exchanging Experience
- Financing Sustainable Projects
- Enhancing Regional and Scientific Cooperation
Iran is eager to leverage the expertise of other nations in designing and implementing sustainable management projects for its forests. Recognizing that environmental challenges are global issues, the country seeks to utilize international environmental structures and resources to restore its forests.
The sustainable management of the Zagros forests will involve participatory management or social forestry. This approach will incorporate economic, social, and environmental sustainability indicators while engaging local communities, government bodies, and the private sector. The Natural Resources Organization of Iran is committed to this agenda, focusing on effective and sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local populations.
As the conference approaches, it is evident that the discussions and collaborations initiated will be vital for the future of Iran’s forests, particularly the unique and invaluable Zagros forests.
