Environmental (Commonwealth Union)_ Iran’s journey to improving environmental performance has gained momentum, marked by significant advancements and critical challenges. In the 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI), Iran moved up 20 places to rank 133rd out of 180 countries. The EPI serves as a comprehensive tool, evaluating 58 indicators across 11 environmental categories to assess each country’s proximity to set sustainability targets. This scorecard reveals Iran’s strengths in areas like marine conservation and highlights areas in need of attention, such as air quality and terrestrial protection. Together, these indicators create a data-driven roadmap, signaling pathways for countries committed to building a sustainable future.
Iran excels in marine conservation and waste management policies, boasting stringent protective regulations that set a global standard. Ranked first in Marine Protection Stringency, Iran’s commitment to safeguarding marine life is clear. In addition, Iran performs well in protecting Marine Key Biodiversity Areas, achieving a 39th-place ranking, and ranks 17th in Fish Stock Status—a clear indication of effective fishing and conservation strategies. Marine life and ecosystems are among the most vulnerable and need stringent regulations to remain balanced; Iran’s achievements in these areas reveal its readiness to protect its marine biodiversity. Another notable achievement is Iran’s high Waste Recovery Rate, ranking 50th. These strengths are a testament to the country’s focused efforts on creating sustainable systems for waste management, fisheries, and marine conservation.
While Iran’s marine ecosystems benefit from protective policies, the country continues to grapple with air quality issues and high emissions. Ranking 162nd in the adjusted emissions growth rate for carbon dioxide, Iran faces challenges that jeopardize its urban population and environmental health. Ranking low in lead exposure (156th), NO2 exposure (150th), and exposure to harmful particulate matter (PM2.5) at 140th, Iran struggles with the health impacts of air pollution. These persistent challenges underline the critical need for policies targeting emissions reductions and air quality improvements.
On a more global level, issues like black carbon, methane, and other greenhouse gases require serious mitigation efforts. The past decade has seen concerning trends, with a 64.1% rise in black carbon emissions, a 23.4% increase in F-gas emissions, and a 10.7% increase in methane emissions. These statistics highlight the urgency of investing in low-emission technologies and sustainable practices to improve public health and protect the environment.
Iran’s geographic positioning at the intersection of Asia, Africa, and Europe results in diverse climates and ecosystems that are home to an extraordinary array of plant and animal species. However, many of Iran’s ecosystems face imminent threats due to habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution. With 75 vertebrate species, including the critically endangered Asiatic cheetahs and bustards, currently on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the importance of biodiversity conservation in Iran is ever-increasing. The country’s flora is equally remarkable, boasting over 8,000 plant species—about 1,800 of which are endemic to Iran. Despite these strengths, the country’s biodiversity remains vulnerable, underscoring the need for conservation-focused initiatives and laws.
Human activities, from road construction to overgrazing and mining, threaten natural habitats and diminish population sizes among species, adding pressure to ecosystems already weakened by climate change and drought. These challenges call for effective habitat preservation measures, such as sustainable land management and limits on resource exploitation. For instance, the impacts of drought on vegetation have left many herbivorous species struggling to survive, reducing food availability and further straining ecosystem health.
Iran’s environmental journey demands multi-faceted strategies and the cooperation of local communities, government, and private stakeholders to achieve meaningful change. Mitigating habitat destruction through responsible land use, resource management, and technological innovation can create a foundation for healthier ecosystems and species populations.
Looking to the future, Iran’s environmental policies will greatly benefit from targeted strategies to address air quality and emissions reduction. Promoting public awareness of conservation’s importance and supporting sustainable practices within communities are equally vital. Increased engagement from local communities, the private sector, and individuals can amplify conservation efforts, while advancements in technology can enhance Iran’s environmental resilience. Building strong policies and public awareness around biodiversity protection can cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility where the natural world is valued as a source of life and prosperity for future generations.
Iran’s environmental journey reflects the complexities of balancing development with ecological preservation. Iran has made significant strides in marine conservation and waste management, highlighting its achievements, but air pollution and biodiversity threats underscore the need for further action. Through continued policy focus, community engagement, and public awareness, Iran can make substantial strides toward a sustainable, biodiverse future—one in which its rich ecosystems thrive and its people reap the benefits of a healthier, greener environment.
