Current Event
10/23 Post 4 Biodiversity Loss in Iran
Iran boasts extraordinary biodiversity thanks to its myriad of excellent environmental factors such as climate and soil. Iran has five bioclimatic zones, each with its own individual flora. Another astounding feature is the Hyrcanian forest, a vast green belt that is classified as a world heritage ecosystem. Not only that, Iran is home to leopards, bears, gazelles, and the worlds last remaining asiatic cheetahs.
However, loss in biodiversity is a reality that many nations must face, including Iran. This has been caused by overpopulation, mismanagement of wildlife systems, and air pollution. Air pollution in particular is the most impactful, created by industrial and vehicle pollution. The loosening of soil also lowers the air quality. Sand and dust storms have worsened as of late due to the destruction of natural ecosystems like drying riverbeds and wetlands. The drying comes from Irans rapid economic development of dams as a solution to combat its water crisis. Currently, Iran is ranked third in the world with the most dams following behind China and Japan.
Currently, Iran is trying to find a balance between its citizens and the natural world as it seeks out solutions that will nullify the terrible effects of drought. This is currently a critical moment for the nation, and time is running out.
