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

Problem Statement: Addressing the challenges inherent in a context where natural resources, cultural assets, and social capabilities are available for transformation amplifies the importance of careful path selection. This goes beyond mere progress, as it is crucial for the sustained balance and resilience of the forthcoming developed favorable situation. Qeshm Island and its satellites, situated as one of the most affluent settlements in Iran with access to a unique ecosystem, open waters, and a rich cultural heritage, currently face less favorable conditions, necessitating comprehensive development efforts.
Given the significant richness of the island's natural-historical ecosystem, there is an urgent need to formulate a distinctive strategic framework for sustainable development. This framework should not only drive economic advancement while preserving environmental capacities but should also ensure equality and justice in development processes. The goal is to transform the development process into a platform that fosters growth and progress for all social, age, gender, and racial groups within the region.
Research Objective: This study aims to elucidate the correlation between harnessing the ecosystem services of Qeshm Island and attaining environmental justice across various dimensions. The goal is to identify the essential boundaries in defining a framework for a sustainable and desirable development model for this region, recognizing it as an integrated socio-ecological system.
Methodology: This study employs a qualitative and mixed research approach. Initially, the case study method is utilized to analyze the current situation. Subsequently, the research delves into the existing world literature on the subject, using background theory as the sample for study development.
Conclusion: The exploration of sustainable development literature has revealed that acknowledging the relationship between humans and the environment as a natural and inseparable system (ecosystem services) is crucial for ensuring the stability of this process within the climate of Qeshm Island. The establishment of environmental justice becomes a prerequisite for this stability, emphasizing the importance of economic growth, environmental protection, and social development within the region. Consequently, when designing the optimal model for the sustainable development of Qeshm and its satellites, it becomes imperative to incorporate concepts and processes related to distributive justice, cognitive justice, and procedural justice. This entails recognizing the roles played by various actors, considering their capacities and values, and acknowledging the mediating influence of governance in these processes. Moreover, emphasis is placed on efforts to create learning opportunities aimed at reducing inequalities and rectifying unfair situations, moving beyond mere idealism to practical and meaningful interventions.