Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a branch of sustainable tourism that focuses on the geological features and natural landscapes of a region. Tourism has various forms and types that are related to geography and tourism. The purpose of the present study is to investigate and assess the geomorphological and geotourism potential of Mahabad city, which is based on the sustainability model. The purpose of this study is to evaluate geotourism potential and its management in the tourist area of West Azerbaijan province, Mahabad city.
Methodology: The research method in this study is based on three models of Kobalikwa and Feoult. In the Kobalikwa model, the criteria are classified into five groups: scientific and intrinsic values, educational values, economic values, conservation values, and other values, which covers almost all features of geotourism. In this method, geomorphosite and landforms were selected for study and evaluation according to four criteria of origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism and general accessibility of this national park.
Results and findings: The results obtained from the Kobalikova evaluation model showed that the geotourism areas of Mahabad city, according to experts, in the category of diversity in geomorphological forms, the geotourism area of Saholan Water Cave and Kani Barzan Wetland with a numerical average of 0.7 in the Violet model and the Saholan Cave and Kani Barzan Wetland area have obtained the highest score compared to other studied areas. This result indicates the importance and high value of these areas in terms of investment for the development of geotourism and attracting tourists. As a result, it is suggested that more up-to-date models be used in future studies to examine the studied areas and that by establishing inter-organizational cooperation and training and empowering local communities along with infrastructure development, the high geotourism capacities of Mahabad city can become a sustainable source of income and employment.

Abstract Abstract
Forecasting the Trend of Housing Price Changes in Ardabil with a Spatio-Temporal Analysis Approach examines the spatial and temporal dynamics of housing prices in this city. In recent years, housing price fluctuations have become one of the most important economic and social challenges in the city of Ardabil, which necessitates a deeper understanding of its change patterns. This research seeks to answer the question of how different spatial and temporal factors affect housing price trends in different regions of Ardabil. The main objective of this study is to predict future changes in housing prices using modern spatio-temporal analysis methods and identify areas with potential for price growth or decline. The research method is a combination of advanced statistical analysis and Geographic Information System (GIS) with an emphasis on Geo-Temporal Weighted Regression (GTWR) models. The data used include housing price information over a 5-year period and effective environmental, economic, and physical variables. The findings show that housing prices in Ardabil follow a spatio-temporal cluster pattern and the central and northern areas of the city are increasing in price at a faster pace. Key influencing factors include access to service centers, quality of the urban environment, inflation rate, and population growth. The results show that by 1405, neighborhoods adjacent to administrative and commercial centers will face price growth of 25 to 30 percent. This study provides a valuable tool for urban policymakers and housing investors to make more informed decisions in urban planning and investment in the housing sector.

Abstract Background and Objective: Sustainable development in OPEC member countries is influenced by various factors, including human development, energy consumption, and oil exports. A precise understanding of the long-term effects of these factors can assist economic policymakers in formulating effective strategies for sustainable regional economic growth. The aim of this study is to examine the long-term relationships between human development, energy consumption, and oil exports with sustainable development in OPEC countries.
Methodology: This applied research utilizes annual data from the period 2000 to 2021 and conducts an econometric analysis of the mentioned variables using the PMG-ARDL method within a panel data framework. The data were collected and analyzed from reputable international sources.
Findings and Conclusion: Given the structural dependence of OPEC economies on oil revenues and their vulnerability to price fluctuations, adopting a comprehensive approach to economic policymaking is essential. The results of this study indicate that, despite the positive role of oil exports in sustainable development, unmanaged and inefficient energy consumption can have adverse effects on economic and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the weak impact of human development on sustainability highlights the need to reassess the quality and direction of human capital investments in these countries. Therefore, it is recommended that policymakers focus on enhancing energy efficiency, diversifying income sources, and strengthening human infrastructure to pave the way for balanced, resilient, and long-term development—one that not only fosters economic growth but also increases countries' resilience to external shocks.

Abstract Background and Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze and describe the hydro-geomorphological and natural factors of the Firoozabad watershed, located in Ardabil Province, using modern GIS technologies and cloud-based processing via Google Earth Engine (GEE).
Methodology: To achieve the study objectives, geomorphic and environmental factors—such as vegetation cover and land use—were extracted from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and the GLC-FCS30D database within the GEE environment, which enabled fast and accurate processing of large-scale datasets. Elevation data with a spatial resolution of 12.5 meters were obtained from the ALOS PALSAR Digital Elevation Model, and geological and soil type data were provided by the Geological Survey of Iran. Data analysis was carried out using GIS software and GEE, leading to the creation of various maps to identify spatial patterns and interrelations between factors.
Results and Findings: The NDVI values ranged from -0.26 to 0.67, indicating that the densest vegetation cover is found in the northeastern and eastern parts of the watershed, while the western, southwestern, and certain central areas show a noticeable reduction. The average slope of the basin is approximately 20%, with a standard deviation of 13.63%. Areas with slopes exceeding 40% are prone to severe erosion and rapid surface runoff. Annual precipitation varies between 531 and 837 mm, and its uneven distribution influences both vegetation patterns and hydrological processes. The geological structure, featuring erosion-prone formations like marls and shales alongside permeable alluvial layers, significantly affects the watershed's hydrological and morphological dynamics. The mean elevation is 1,895 meters, with an elevation range from 1,118 to 3,225 meters. Land use is predominantly composed of rangelands (54%) and agricultural lands (44%), where poor management could threaten natural resources. These findings can provide a scientific and practical foundation for watershed management planning focused on conserving soil and water resources and reducing the risks of erosion, floods, and landslides.

Abstract چکیده
تحلیل الگوی پراکنش فضایی قیمت مسکن در شهر اردبیل با استفاده از GIS، موضوعی است که به بررسی توزیع جغرافیایی قیمت مسکن و عوامل مؤثر بر آن می‌پردازد. با رشد شهرنشینی و افزایش تقاضا برای مسکن، درک نحوه توزیع قیمت‌ها در سطح شهر به برنامه‌ریزان و سیاست‌گذاران کمک می‌کند تا تصمیمات بهینه‌تری اتخاذ کنند. در این تحقیق، مسأله اصلی شناسایی الگوهای فضایی قیمت مسکن و ارتباط آن با متغیرهای اقتصادی، اجتماعی و کالبدی است. هدف اصلی این مطالعه، تحلیل پراکنش فضایی قیمت مسکن و تعیین عوامل کلیدی تأثیرگذار بر آن در شهر اردبیل است. روش تحقیق به‌صورت توصیفی-تحلیلی بوده و از ابزارهای GIS برای تحلیل فضایی داده‌ها استفاده شده است. داده‌های مورد نیاز از منابع رسمی و میدانی جمع‌آوری و با روش‌های آماری و زمین-آماری مورد پردازش قرار گرفته‌اند. یافته‌ها نشان می‌دهد که: قیمت مسکن در شهر اردبیل از الگوی خوشه‌ای تبعیت می‌کند و مناطق با قیمته‌ای بالا و پایین به‌صورت متمرکز در نقاط خاصی از شهر قرار دارند. عواملی مانند دسترسی به مراکز خدماتی، کیفیت محیطی و ویژگی‌های کالبدی ساختمان‌ها تأثیر معناداری بر قیمت مسکن دارند. نتایج تحقیق بیانگر آن است که تحلیل فضایی قیمت مسکن می‌تواند به درک بهتر نابرابری‌های شهری و تدوین سیاست‌های مسکن کمک کند. این مطالعه به برنامه‌ریزان شهری پیشنهاد می‌کند از ابزارهای GIS برای پایش مستمر تغییرات قیمت مسکن و شناسایی مناطق محروم استفاده کنند.

Abstract Background and Aim: Child-friendly cities are active and attractive places that provide children with opportunities for interaction, recreation, personal growth, stress reduction, creativity stimulation, and social vitality. In this regard, the aim of this study is to assess the status of neighborhoods in Gorgan in terms of child-friendly city indicators and the factors effective in achieving them.
Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. Field and questionnaire methods were used in this study. In the first part of the study, which is the statistical population of child caregivers, the Cochran formula was used to determine the sample size, which resulted in a sample size of 350 people. In the next part of the study, which used the Delphi sampling method, 50 people with a master's degree or higher who have valid research in the field of urban planning and management with a focus on the child-friendly city of Gorgan were used as the statistical population. SPSS and SMART-PLS software were used to analyze the data.
Findings and Results: In terms of child-friendly city components, Gorgan-Pars neighborhood is in a better position than Ozineh neighborhood, and the physical-environmental and managerial-organizational components are the most problematic components in the field of child-friendly city at the level of neighborhoods in Gorgan. Based on the results obtained, the physical-environmental criterion (factor load 0.77), the managerial-organizational criterion (factor load 0.73), the social-cultural criterion (factor load 0.65), and the economic criterion (factor load 0.58) have the greatest impact on achieving a child-friendly city.

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: The rapid growth of urbanization and the increasing dependence on private cars in recent decades have created serious challenges in urban transportation systems and have reduced the quality of urban life. In this context, the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model, as one of the modern approaches to urban planning, is considered a sustainable strategy for reducing traffic congestion, enhancing urban environmental quality, and promoting public transportation. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the current status of transit-oriented development in District 4 of Tabriz, focusing on physical, functional, and infrastructural indicators.
Methodology: This study employs a descriptive–analytical research method. Data were collected from Geographic Information System (GIS) maps, the detailed plan of Tabriz, and demographic and transportation network information. Spatial models such as Line Density, Entropy, and Distance were applied for data analysis, and key indicators including walkability, cycling, connectivity, land-use mix, density, compactness, and policy shift were quantitatively assessed. Furthermore, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model was used to determine the relative importance of the indicators.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate that the central neighborhoods of District 4, due to their high population density and proximity to public transport networks, show the greatest alignment with TOD principles, while the northern and western parts, characterized by spatial dispersion and greater distance from transit stations, exhibit weaker performance. Walkability and land-use mix indicators were found to be more favorable in the older urban areas. Based on AHP analysis, connectivity and public transport accessibility were identified as the most influential factors in achieving TOD. Therefore, developing pedestrian-friendly networks, strengthening cycling infrastructure, and increasing density around transit stations are suggested as key strategies for improving TOD in the study area.

Abstract 1. Introduction
The escalation of military threats, such as air and drone attacks, along with advancements in technologies like F-35 fighters and precision-guided systems, has driven urban planning and crisis management toward advanced spatial analysis tools (Blaikie et al., 2013). Khorramabad, the capital of Lorestan Province in western Iran, is a strategic military target due to the presence of Imam Ali Barracks, making it vulnerable to potential attacks (Shakiba & Mousavi, 2019). The region’s topography, including slope, visibility, and proximity to strategic targets, significantly influences its vulnerability. This study aims to evaluate Khorramabad’s topographic and spatial vulnerability using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data to produce a comprehensive vulnerability map.
.2. Methods and Material
GIS-based methods were employed using 30-meter resolution DEM data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Slope was calculated with the ArcGIS Pro Slope tool and categorized into 0–5°, 5–15°, and >15°. Viewshed analysis was conducted using Imam Ali Barracks as the observation point, while Euclidean Distance classified areas into 0–500 m, 500–1000 m, and 1000–10000 m from the barracks. Layers were integrated using Weighted Overlay, assigning 40% weight to distance, 30% to slope, and 30% to visibility, with validation using OSM data (30% weight). Geometric accuracy was ensured through field data comparison.
3. Results and Discussion
Results indicate that 6.56% of the city (4.79 km²) falls within the high vulnerability zone, primarily in western Khorramabad, characterized by slopes of 0–5°, distances less than 1000 m, and high visibility. Moderate vulnerability covers 72.43% (52.83 km²), while low vulnerability encompasses 21.01% (15.38 km²) of the city. The 40% weighting of distance highlights its critical role in vulnerability assessment, consistent with prior GIS-based studies (Kim et al., 2004).
4. Conclusion
This study confirms GIS as an effective tool for identifying high-risk areas and recommends reinforcing infrastructure, establishing urban shelters, and planning emergency evacuation routes in western Khorramabad. Future research could enhance model accuracy by incorporating population, land-use data, building density, and dynamic indicators such as climate variations.

Abstract The optimal site selection for sensitive facilities such as prisons is a significant challenge in urban and regional management. This study aims to identify optimal locations for a prison in Neyshabur city by integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods. In terms of purpose, the present study is applied, and in terms of methodology, it is descriptive-analytical. Through library and field studies, 14 effective criteria for prison site selection were identified and categorized into two groups: natural criteria (elevation, slope, aspect, soil type, distance from fault lines, distance from surface waters) and human-security criteria (distance from communication routes, urban boundaries, villages, military centers, industrial centers, passenger terminals, and gas pipelines). The required data were obtained from relevant organizations and processed in a GIS environment. For data analysis, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Analytic Network Process (ANP) methods were used. In the AHP method, after forming the pairwise comparison matrix and calculating the criteria weights, an inconsistency rate of 0.03 was obtained, indicating the reliability of the results. Accordingly, the criteria of 'distance from the city boundary' (0.18) and 'distance from military centers' (0.16) received the highest weights. The results showed that based on the ANP method, 6.49% (500 hectares) of the study area was classified as 'highly suitable', 43.87% (3380 hectares) as 'suitable', and 24.53% (1890 hectares) as 'moderately suitable'. In total, 74.89% of the city's area (5770 hectares) possesses favorable conditions for prison construction. The 'highly suitable' zones are primarily located in the northern and central parts of the city, characterized by gentle topography, balanced access to main roads, and a safe distance from settlements. This zoning can provide a scientific basis for decision-makers and planners in the site selection of a prison in Neyshabur city.

Abstract Background and Objective: Urbanization and rapid changes in cities have placed the preservation of the city's historical textures at the center of urban planning. Common concepts that attempt to define old buildings, building groups, and urban areas as separate entities in the urban context are blurred. Therefore, a transformation has occurred in both the concept and structure of the city's historical textures, which is derived from the challenges in this field and consequently, along with these textural landscapes for dealing with a historical territory, such as the urban landscape (HULL). In this regard, the aim of the present study is to investigate the objective and subjective indicators of the historical urban landscape of Kermanshah city with Hull's cultural theory.
Research Methodology: The method of conducting the present study was descriptive-analytical, and its information was collected through library studies and through completing a questionnaire. For data analysis, a one-sample t-test was used in the Spss21 software and the SWARA model was used for weighting and ranking the indicators.
Findings and Results: The results of the questionnaire, which are divided into two general categories of social security and integration indicators, have shown that the component indicating clarity, legibility, and memorability, and the functional-social cohesion index have the highest score and value. The results of the Swara model also indicate that among the qualities, quality, experience in the environment, respectively, have ranked first to third in the level of completely desirable performance, which is indicative of the fact that memories and good experiences have been associated with the environment and the study area in the minds of residents and individuals, which increases the likelihood of people returning and using the social space.

Abstract Geotourism focuses on human interaction with geomorphological phenomena, where natural landforms as geomorphosites play a key role in attracting tourists and sustainable tourism development. This type of tourism is of interest to both experts and nature enthusiasts. The present study, with an integrated approach, follows an analysis Geotourism and geomorphological potentials of the Heyran Pass region in Astara County, which is considered one of the mountainous regions prone to the development of natural tourism in northwest Iran. For this purpose, two valid analytical models, namely the "Kobalikova" model for the evaluation of geosites and the "Feuillet" model for the examination of management and application indicators, were used. Research data were extracted and weighted through a combination of field observations, specialized questionnaires (with a statistical population consisting of 28 experts and 15 tourists) and spatial analysis. The evaluation of five key indicators including scientific, educational, conservation, economic and added value was carried out in the three regions of Mashand, Chamlar and Gilde.The research findings showed that Gilde village, with a final score of 4.75 out of 5 in the K.F model, has the highest potential for the development of geotourism; while Mashand has the lowest level of readiness with a score of 3.25. Effective factors such as inadequate infrastructure, weak education and lack of documented cultural connection have reduced its score. Chamlar with a score of 4.25 ranked second and is in a good position in terms of geomorphological diversity and local community participation. Overall, the article shows that by developing educational, cultural and management infrastructure, these areas can be exploited for the sustainable development of geotourism.

Abstract 1. Introduction
The involvement and active participation of rural communities in watershed management projects provide substantial and wide-ranging benefits. Community participation is a critical component in environmental assessments, policy-making, and strategic planning. Empirical evidence suggests that disregarding the role of local communities in natural resource management results in the marginalization of the primary stakeholders of these resources, thereby undermining the effectiveness of planning, decision-making, and implementation processes.
2. Methods and Material
A sample of 384 people from Suq district was selected as a sample according to the Cochran’s formula. The questionnaires were distributed, and after they were completed, the opinions of experienced experts were used to validate the content. Finally, its reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. The Cronbach’s alpha of the questionnaire was calculated to be 0.80 for economic indicators and 0.78 for social indicators. Then, various socio-economic factors were examined using statistical methods.
3. Results and Discussion
The Friedman test rank average showed that the highest rank average related to the factor of the influence of participation in financing the implementation of the project by natural resource departments was 7.84, which shows the greatest difference among the 12 economic and social factors. Also, the factor of the influence of religious teachings and mosques on the level of participation with an average of 7.02 was recognized in the second ranks. Also, the results of the regression analysis indicated that 81.9 percent of the changes in the participation of local communities can be explained based on social and economic variables.
4. Conclusion
Based on the results, it is recommended that before implementing the projects, the social and economic conditions should be thoroughly analyzed and the existing strengths and weaknesses should be clearly identified. By reinforcing the strengths and addressing the obstacles, it becomes possible to increase local community’s participation in the implementation of the projects. Therefore, environmental degradation and subsequent social issues can be prevented.

Abstract With the shift in urban management approaches from infrastructure-oriented to people-centered planning, sports events have emerged as new socio-cultural platforms capable of fostering sustainable behaviors, strengthening urban identity, and enhancing civic engagement. The present study aims to investigate the role of citizens’ experiences with sports events in shaping supportive behavior and sustainable urban identity in the city of Tabriz. The research employed a descriptive–analytical method and utilized structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population comprised all residents of Tabriz (N = 1,653,827), and a sample size of 384 participants was determined using Cochran’s formula. Data were collected through a 41-item questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS, AMOS, and EQS software packages. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that among the dimensions of sports experience, the athletic dimension exerted the strongest impact on sustainable urban identity perception (path coefficient = 0.35), whereas the psychological–social dimension showed the weakest influence (path coefficient = 0.25). The coefficient of determination (R²) for sustainable urban identity was 0.54, indicating that 54% of its variance was explained by the model. Furthermore, this perception accounted for 31% of the variance in citizens’ supportive behavior. Overall, the findings suggest that positive and repeated experiences of sports events can act as powerful cultural catalysts, significantly contributing to the enhancement of sustainable urban identity and the development of prosocial civic behaviors in Tabriz.

Abstract Background and purpose: Iran is one of the countries vulnerable to climate change and fires due to its location on the arid and semi-arid belt of the world and the high-pressure subtropical region. The phenomenon of fire is one of the environmental hazards that cause many casualties and damages to people, property and assets. Method: This research is based on descriptive-analytical nature and applied type. which has been done by reading books, articles and theses. The statistical population of the study is the geographical area of ​​Paveh city in Kermanshah province. which is based on field methods, tools and libraries and spatial data. Then the influencing parameters were prepared in Arc GIS software. In this research, 8 indicators (slope, slope direction, elevation classes (Dem), land use, wind direction, vegetation density, temperature increase, rainfall decrease) were identified as effective factors in fire. Then the information layers are prepared in the GIS environment. Findings: According to the research conducted and the observations of climate change and geographical factors of the study area, the results show that slope, vegetation, limited rainfall, and high temperature have the greatest effect on fires. The highest risk of fire is at the altitude of 1000-2000 meters, which is also the highest risk of fire on the southern and western slopes. Conclusion: In this research, using Sentinel 4 satellite images with color combination 4-8-14, which shows the image before the fire and at the same time as the fire. The area of ​​the fire area is estimated to be 1793 hectares. that the studied area is in a very high-risk category, and the results of the study indicate the high potential of the area in terms of causing fire hazards due to geographical and climatic factors. Therefore, the plan and map of areas with fire risk is a useful guide for crisis management.

Abstract Abstract
Abstract Background and Objective: Understanding climatic data and examining their effects on agricultural crops are among the key factors influencing site selection and, consequently, increasing production. The aim of this study is to evaluate the climatic and environmental potentials of the Arshaq region in Ardabil Province for rainfed wheat cultivation using the AHP and WASPAS decision making methods.
Methods and Material: uch as precipitation (annual, germination, tillering, wintering, regrowth, flowering, and grain formation), mean annual temperature, elevation, and slope were used based on a 30 year statistical period (1994–2023). The research process included data collection, statistical calculations and analysis using Excel, and determination of the weighted indices of the criteria through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) methods.
Results and Discussion: The data were analyzed using the AHP and WASPAS models. The research findings, utilizing the AHP model across the wheat growth stages, indicated that the most important effective factors for wheat cultivation in the Arshaq region were, in order of weighted criterion values: effective precipitation in the grain formation stage (0.195), precipitation during flowering (0.175), annual precipitation (0.132), and precipitation during germination (0.114). Based on the WASPAS method, the stations ranked as the most suitable for wheat cultivation in the Arshaq region were: Salavat (5.713), Khoshabad (5.219), Doustbeiglou (5.132), Qousheh Sofla (5.096), Kangarlou (5.026), Khalifehlou (5.023), Tazakand-e-Arshaq (4.928), Amirkandi (4.802), Arbabkandi (4.649), Samian (4.646), and Moshiran (4.374), respectively.
Conclusion: The final results of this study indicate that in over 60% of the Arshaq region, rainfed wheat cultivation is suitable and economically valuable, while in 25% of the area, cultivation is possible at a moderate to low level but still feasible.
Keywords: Climate, Arshaq region, rainfed wheat, and AHP, WASPAS, and GIS models

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a type of tourism that studies the natural environment, shapes and landforms because of their attractiveness. Today, tourism is rapidly becoming one of the main pillars of economic, social, cultural and political development. Given this role and position, the existence of tourism in a place can not only be effective in the development of that place but also affect the development process of some indicators in its surrounding environment. The purpose of this research is to investigate and evaluate the tourist attractions of Darmin County (the land of historical castles) and find solutions to attract tourists and develop geotourism in the region. For this purpose, 8 geosites and tourist attractions (Abgarm Village due to its hot spring and the tomb of Sultan Ebrahim Reza, Lakhdarideh, Dushangan Tree, Mulla Emad Sand Hill, Hindalan Mosque, Tabas Asbad, Forg Castle and Torsh-Ab) were investigated.
Methodology: The present study is applied and descriptive-survey type in which the data collection method was documentary and survey using questionnaires of tourists and residents of the region. Also, the M-GAM model was used to analyze the data using SPSS.26, ARC GIS and Excel software.
Results and findings: The results showed that Darman County, despite its abundant and pristine tourist attractions, lacks suitable facilities to attract tourists; however, Qale Forg has the highest score in most of the indicators studied. Tourism values have the highest score with 0.875 and scientific-educational values have the lowest score with 0.396.

Abstract Abstract
This study examines the impact of environmental investments (E) on the operational sustainability of companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange and examines the moderating role of corporate governance (G) in this regard. Given the increasing regulatory pressures and stakeholder expectations regarding social and environmental responsibility, understanding the mechanisms that translate these investments into sustainable performance is of critical importance.
The statistical population includes listed companies over a ten-year period (2013-2014) and the data are estimated using a fixed effects (FE) regression model and a system of simultaneous equations. The dependent variable (Y) represents operational sustainability (a combination of water and energy consumption and operating costs). The main independent variable is environmental investments (E) and the moderating variable is the corporate governance index (G).
The results of the baseline model showed that environmental investments have a positive and significant effect on the operational sustainability of companies. The moderation hypothesis showed that with increasing levels of corporate governance, the coefficient of the positive effect of environmental investments on operational sustainability is strengthened. This finding suggests that a strong corporate governance structure increases stakeholder confidence and improves the efficiency of environmental resource allocation. Finally, policy recommendations emphasize the need to strengthen transparency and accountability in management structures to maximize the returns from green investments.

Abstract Abstract: In recent decades, urban areas have experienced significant spatial and physical transformations, largely driven by rapid horizontal expansion and land-use changes. Tabriz, as one of Iran’s metropolitan cities, has particularly witnessed unbalanced and scattered urban growth in District 4, resulting in various environmental and social consequences. This study aims to evaluate the spatial–physical expansion trends of District 4 of Tabriz. The research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive–analytical in nature. Considering the unbalanced urban growth and increasing pressure on natural resources and agricultural lands, the study examines urban development patterns and proposes sustainable approaches for guiding and managing future physical growth.
Methodology: The methodological framework is grounded in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial matrix analysis. Core datasets—including land-use maps, road networks, and key indicators affecting urban development—were collected and processed in ArcGIS. The analytical indicators consisted of building density, horizontal expansion, land-use change, accessibility to urban services, slope, distance from major roads, and hazard zoning. These indicators were rasterized, normalized, and integrated using overlay and hierarchical analytical methods to generate development suitability maps, enabling a multidimensional evaluation of the district’s spatial potential and constraints.
Findings and Conclusion: Results indicate that District 4 has undergone dispersed and unbalanced expansion over the past two decades, with an annual growth rate of roughly 2.5 percent. The prevailing pattern is low-density horizontal sprawl, placing pressure on natural resources and undermining spatial cohesion. Building density is concentrated in central areas and along transportation corridors, whereas peripheral and newly developed zones display low density and limited access to services. Slope and hazard analyses show that while some areas possess high development suitability, others are at environmental risk. Overall, findings highlight the significant role of GIS and spatial indicators in monitoring and guiding urban growth. Redirecting development toward higher density, enhancing spatial equity in service accessibility, considering natural land capacity, and controlling horizontal expansion are recommended as key strategies for promoting sustainable development in the district.

Abstract Urbanization and global warming have significantly affected the quality of urban life, particularly thermal comfort in outdoor spaces. Thermal comfort is a key determinant of public health, social cohesion, and urban livability. In Tabriz, one of Iran’s largest metropolises with a cold-moderate climate, rapid urban expansion, high building density, reduced vegetation, and inappropriate street orientation have intensified urban heat islands (UHI) and degraded outdoor comfort. This study aims to identify key drivers of thermal comfort and develop future scenarios for sustainable urban planning.A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data were collected through literature review, expert consultation (Delphi method), and structural analysis using MICMAC software. Thirty experts in urban planning, climatology, and environmental studies participated in the Delphi and scenario-building processes. Results revealed five critical drivers: urban heat islands, height-to-width ratio of streets, wind speed and direction, street orientation relative to prevailing winds, and vegetation cover. ScenarioWizard was applied to generate 15 plausible scenarios, ranging from desirable to critical futures. Findings indicate that increasing vegetation, reducing UHI, and designing streets aligned with wind flow significantly improve thermal comfort. Conversely, high building density and reduced greenery exacerbate discomfort.The study concludes that integrating climate-responsive design, scenario-based planning, and urban ecology perspectives provides a robust framework for enhancing thermal comfort in Tabriz. Policy recommendations include revising current urban management strategies, promoting green infrastructure, and adopting adaptive design guidelines.

Abstract 1. Introduction
Sustainable smart cities are presented as an integrated response to the complex challenges of twenty-first century urbanization, combining advanced information and communication technologies with economic, social, and environmental sustainability principles. In Iran, despite initial efforts toward smart city development, the absence of a localized, coherent, and context-sensitive framework has hindered effective and sustainable progress. This study aims to assess the current situation and develop a localized framework for a sustainable smart city in Iran, focusing on Shiraz as a case study.
2. Methods and Material
The research adopts a mixed-methods (qualitative–quantitative) approach. Data were collected through expert questionnaires for the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), public questionnaires administered to citizens, and semi-structured interviews. The statistical population included academic experts, urban managers, and citizens of Shiraz.
3. Results and Discussion
Findings indicate that, within the Iranian context, the dimensions of “smart economy” and “smart mobility” are the most critical, with weights of 0.23 and 0.20 respectively, while “smart environment” and “smart living” occupy lower priority levels. The SWOT–TOWS analysis identified institutional, cultural, and technological challenges and formulated four categories of strategies to advance a sustainable smart city.
4. Conclusion
Ultimately, a localized three-layer framework was designed, consisting of: (1) an infrastructural–institutional layer, (2) a functional six-dimensional layer, and (3) an enabling layer. This framework emphasizes the synergy between technology, data-driven governance, and citizen participation. It can serve as an operational model for other Iranian cities seeking to implement sustainable smart city initiatives.
5. References
(References are available upon request.)

Abstract Background and Objective: In today's economy, tourism is recognized as one of the key indicators of development and an effective tool for achieving sustainable development. This industry plays a significant role in the economic growth of countries by increasing national income, creating employment, attracting domestic and foreign investment, fostering regional development, and generating foreign exchange earnings. Nevertheless, despite the emphasis on expanding tourism in all development plans and on moving away from a single-product economy reliant on oil exports, Iran has not achieved considerable, tangible, or noticeable success in this area. Therefore, the present study examines the effects of tourism on urban development and economic growth in three provinces—Ardabil, West Azerbaijan, and East Azerbaijan—over the period 2011–2023 (1390–1402 in the Persian calendar). The aim is to determine, considering the tourism potentials of these regions, whether tourism has been able to influence their regional development and growth.
Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of objective, and a library method was used to collect statistics and data. Accordingly, the required data were extracted using the statistical yearbooks of the studied provinces for the period 2011–2023, and a regression model was estimated using the panel data regression method.
Results and Findings: The estimation results of the model indicate that the tourism variable has a positive and significant effect on the economic growth of the studied provinces. Specifically, a one percent increase in the number of incoming tourists to a province leads to a 0.11 percent increase in its economic growth. In other words, despite the existing tourism potentials in these three provinces, particularly their beautiful forest and mountain areas and historical buildings, although the impact of tourism on production growth in these three provinces has been positive, the magnitude of this effect is lower than expected. Furthermore, the coefficients for physical capital, human capital, and labor are estimated to be 0.26, 0.21, and 0.39, respectively. That is, holding other conditions constant, a one percent change in physical capital, human capital, and labor changes the level of output by 0.26%, 0.21%, and 0.39%, respectively.

Abstract
Understanding today's urban man and the needs of citizens is a prerequisite for today's urban management. The purpose of this research is to investigate and evaluate the level of satisfaction and prioritization of the needs of Chabahar city citizens from urban management and Chabahar Municipality. The method used in this research is the Kano model. In this research, based on the Kano model, three needs of Chabahar citizens from Chabahar Municipality services were examined. 1- Mandatory needs (needs that do not lead to satisfaction if they are met, but not meeting them leads to customer dissatisfaction). 2- One-dimensional needs (needs that the more they are met, the greater the customer satisfaction and vice versa). 3- Attractive needs (needs that the more they are met, the more customer satisfaction increases and vice versa). 30 university professors, executive officials, and experts from Chabahar Municipality were selected and answered the questions of the questionnaire designed based on the Kano model in two favorable and unfavorable ways. Of the 25 services defined for Chabahar Municipality, 15 activities were identified as mandatory needs, 6 as one-dimensional needs, 2 as attractive needs, and 2 as indifference to Chabahar citizens. Based on the classification, grading, and importance of needs obtained in this study, Chabahar Municipality should plan and take action to provide urban services in order to increase citizen satisfaction.

Abstract Abstract
This research aimed to investigate the role and function of green infrastructure in realizing a sustainable smart city in District 6 of Tehran, a region that faces serious challenges in ecological management and achieving urban sustainability due to high building density, lack of green space, high energy consumption, and environmental pressures. The main issue of the research was how to improve the environmental performance and resilience of this region by strengthening green infrastructure and utilizing smart technologies, and what indicators have the greatest impact in this process. Given the environmental and structural limitations of District 6, the need to create a link between technology, urban management, and ecology is increasingly felt. The research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of methodology with a quantitative approach.The statistical population consisted of 40 specialists, experts, and managers in the field of smart city and urban environment who were selected purposefully. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire, and for data analysis, Cronbach's alpha and KMO were used to measure reliability and sampling adequacy, exploratory factor analysis to identify conceptual dimensions, Pearson correlation to determine relationships between indicators, and linear regression to determine the effect of each factor on the dependent variable. The results showed that the management and technology dimension plays the greatest role in explaining the sustainable smart city in Region 6, and indicators such as data mining, smart sensors, and smart water resource management have the highest impact. After that, the ecological dimension, including heat island reduction, ecological design, and runoff management, comes in second place, indicating the importance of environmental infrastructure in dense areas of the city.In contrast, the socio-economic dimension and citizen participation received the least weight, indicating the weakness of software structures and the need to empower the local community. Overall, the research emphasizes that achieving a sustainable smart city in Region 6 requires the simultaneous integration of smart technologies, ecological infrastructure, and social participation

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban parks play an important role in enhancing citizens’ quality of life and health. Nevertheless, the distinct effects of the environmental, social, and physical–spatial dimensions of these spaces on individual health have received limited attention. This study aims to investigate the role of different dimensions of urban parks in promoting citizens’ individual health, with a focus on Sarcheshmeh Park in Farokhshahr.

Methods: This research adopts a descriptive–analytical approach. Data were collected using a researcher‑developed questionnaire whose content validity was confirmed by experts, while reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis in SPSS software.

Results: The Pearson correlation results indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship between the social dimension and individual health (p < 0.05). A significant positive relationship was also found between the physical–spatial dimension and individual health, whereas the environmental dimension showed no statistically significant relationship with individual health (p > 0.05). Regression analysis showed that the research model was significant for predicting individual health (F = 3.198, p < 0.01), and the dimensions of urban parks explained 9.7% of the variance in individual health. Based on standardized coefficients, the physical–spatial dimension (β = 0.156, p = 0.008) and the social dimension (β = 0.154, p = 0.015) had the strongest positive and significant effects, while the environmental dimension was not significant (p = 0.386).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that the physical–spatial quality of park environments and opportunities for social interaction are important factors in promoting citizens’ individual health. Therefore, improving spatial design and strengthening social spaces in urban parks can contribute to enhancing public health and urban

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: Preceding modern psychological theories, such as Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, by fourteen centuries, the Holy Quran has delineated a comprehensive system encompassing both the physical and spiritual facets of human existence. This is manifest in "Surah Quraish," which delineates four pillars: hunger, security, solidarity, and worship. By reminding the Quraish tribe of the blessings of sustenance and safety, God Almighty invites them to worship, thereby presenting a realistic model of a hierarchy of needs wherein meeting fundamental needs is an essential prerequisite for achieving spiritual flourishing. In comparison, unlike Western psychology—which often neglects the impact of the "environmental context" in discussions of social needs—Islamic teachings, through a strategic emphasis on situated communities such as mosques, Friday prayers, and neighborhood rights, bridge the abstract concept of social needs with physical reality. Thus, the "city" is elevated from a mere settlement to a social hub and a sacred setting for the manifestation of the transcendental dimensions of human existence.
Methodology: This research employs a descriptive-analytical method based on library studies, delving into the semantic and interpretative investigation of Surah Quraish and comparing it with Abraham Maslow’s theory, while citing verses from the Holy Quran.
Results and Findings: The findings from this theoretical inquiry indicate that the process of meeting essential human needs not only does not contradict religion but is strongly encouraged by the Quran. The final conclusion demonstrates that adhering to the hierarchy of needs (from material to spiritual) is a natural and accepted rule for the general public; although those gifted with higher degrees of wisdom and divine grace (the elite) may follow a different path, persevering in spiritual transcendence even in the absence of basic needs. Furthermore, Surah Quraish establishes the status of livelihood and security as the foundation for human transcendence and introduces the Islamic city as an educational, spiritual, and character-building environment. Consequently, the ideal city in Islamic logic is not merely a place of residence, but a field for realizing the "Good Life" (Hayat Tayyibah) and nurturing the divine human.