The picturesque northern provinces of Iran, namely Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan, which lie along the southern edges of the Caspian Sea, are celebrated for their awe-inspiring landscapes filled with lush forests and unparalleled biodiversity. But beneath these captivating views, a severe environmental crisis looms – deforestation.
These northern territories are struggling to balance agricultural needs, urban growth, and logging. As a result, the ancient and ecologically essential Caspian Hyrcanian Mixed Forests face mounting threats. These forests, renowned not just for their aesthetics but also as a habitat for myriad unique species, are on the brink of devastation.
The alarm bells are ringing among environmentalists regarding northern Iran’s deteriorating natural state. They point to the rising demand for tourism and rampant construction in cities as major threats. On September 21, state media underscored the troubling acquisition of national resources for building, not only in Gilan but throughout all three provinces. Many previously protected natural sites are now being privatized, with significant influence from the regime’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC).
Multiple factors are contributing to what experts dub “climate destruction”. The booming villa constructions, encroachment on pristine forests, and conversion of agricultural lands are only a few. Additionally, illegal logging has made forests susceptible, leading to decreased rainfall and drying of wetlands.Even regime officials acknowledge this, albeit without taking substantive actions.
The Ebrahim Raisi administration, while proclaiming its dedication to environmental safeguarding, contradicts its stance by endorsing projects like the Miankala Petrochemical Project.
Despite regime claims, local media emphasizes the swift construction of polluting industries. Many residents also argue that an increase in tourism, without proper infrastructure, only augments pollution, particularly from careless tourists.
Though NGOs work tirelessly to maintain the cleanliness of the region, the waste management issue, especially plastic, cannot be resolved by intermittent initiatives. A dedicated national strategy and budget are vital. Sadly, the current regime displays neither the intent nor the inclination to prioritize environmental protection.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu
