Tehran – Iran has achieved a 20% increase in the protection index of its forests and rangelands, thanks to the implementation of nationwide watershed management and reforestation programs, according to deputy for Watershed Management, Rangelands, and Deserts at the Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organization.

 

Speaking at a national task force meeting on Sunday, Hassan Vahid emphasized that these efforts align with key environmental objectives under Iran’s Seventh Development Plan.

 

“Natural resource projects, especially large-scale tree planting, are instrumental in enhancing ecosystem protection and resilience,” he said.

 

Vahid also highlighted the country’s critical soil erosion challenge, noting that more than 15 tons of soil per hectare are lost annually. Under current development goals, the organization is mandated to reduce soil erosion by 20% and rehabilitate 20% of the most critical desertification hotspots.

 

Drawing attention to Iran’s expertise in desert reclamation, Vahid stated, “Iranian specialists have successfully stabilized shifting sands and carried out large-scale afforestation in desert regions. Some Persian Gulf countries are now seeking to benefit from these proven techniques.”

 

He further stressed the importance of planting climate-resilient tree species suited to local ecosystems, adding, “Public engagement is essential to the long-term success of natural resource conservation in Iran.”