Scientific Quarterly Journal

Investigating the Mutual Relationship Between Ecosystem Services and Environmental-Social Justice in Explaining the Strategic Framework of Sustainable Development of Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas, Iran

Volume 16, Issue 69
Winter 2025
Pages 62-71

Document Type : Original Research Article

Author

M. A. in Landscape Architecture, School of Architecture, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Iran.

Abstract
The demand for change from an undesirable situation, especially when natural resources, cultural assets, and social capacities are available to drive transformation, necessitates careful selection of a path not only for advancement but also for the durability and balance of a favorable developmental state. Qeshm Island and its adjacent areas, as some of the richest settlements within Iran - boasting a unique ecosystem, access to open waters, and a deep-rooted cultural and civilizational heritage - find themselves in less-than-ideal conditions and are in demand of comprehensive development. The unique value of this natural-historical ecosystem highlights the importance of designing a strategic development framework. This framework should aim to ensure economic growth, preserve the environment, and provide equitable access to resources, information, and decision-making processes. Consequently, the development process should provide a platform for growth and progress for all social, age, gender, and racial groups. This research aims to elucidate the relationship between the concept of ecosystem services on Qeshm Island and the achievement of environmental justice in various dimensions to determine the necessary boundaries for crafting a desirable and sustainable development framework for Qeshm Island and its satellite areas as an integrated socio-ecological system.
The research employed a qualitative and mixed-method approach, using a case study to analyze and expand the global literature on the topic as applied to the study area. Through the examination of sustainable development literature, it became evident that recognizing the human-environment relationship as an inseparable natural and systemic network (ecosystem services) and establishing environmental justice are prerequisites for the sustainability of this process in the Qeshm Island climate. The balanced pursuit of economic growth, environmental conservation, and social development defines the preferred approach. Thus, in designing a comprehensive and unique sustainable development model for Qeshm and its satellites, it is crucial to address distributive, cognitive, and procedural justice by recognizing the roles, capacities, and values of various stakeholders and acknowledging the role of intermediaries - such as governance - in the process. Additionally, efforts should be made to create learning opportunities aimed at reducing inequalities and shifting focus from mere idealism to altering “unjust conditions” in the region.

Keywords

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