Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Introduction: The population and its characteristics are considered one of the most important components for achieving development. In fact, neglecting demographic indicators and characteristics in regional and national policymaking and planning can result in a mismatch between the potential of the region and its population, leading to numerous problems in achieving balanced development at the national level. Methodology:  Consequently, the aim of the present research is to formulate drivers and scenarios impacting demographic policies in West Azarbaijan Province with a spatial planning approach. The data collection method in this study is both documentary and field-based. Finally, for data analysis, the future studies software MicMac and Scenario Wizard have been utilized.
Results and Discussion: The results indicate that among the three present scenarios, the first scenario, which encompasses all optimistic scenarios, is recognized as the most desirable scenario, while the third scenario, which includes all pessimistic scenarios, is regarded as the least desirable. The second scenario comprises those scenarios that are more intermediate; in other words, they cannot be classified as strong or weak scenarios. The distinguishing factor among them is the difference in the degree of static and critical conditions. This group encompasses all intermediate situations among the scenarios in terms of frequency. In general, the third scenario is identified as a critical scenario because it is completely opposite to the first scenario, containing ten critical conditions.

Abstract Background and Aim: In Iranian society, women have played an important and expanding role in the field of business, but there have always been a series of obstacles for women's activities, especially in rural communities in Iran. Therefore, this research sought to identify the obstacles to the development of rural women's entrepreneurship in the touristic villages of Yasouj.
Methods and Material: The current research is based on the type of applied research and descriptive-analytical research method. In order to collect information and data, library and field methods, interviews and questionnaires were used. The statistical population of this research are women from Yasouj villages (central part) and SPSS 26 and Minitab software were used to analyze the findings. To investigate the characteristics of the respondents (women of touristic villages of Yasouj) from descriptive statistics (percentage, frequency) and to investigate the barriers to entrepreneurship of women of touristic villages of Yasouj from inferential statistics (one-sample t) and to determine the difference in the effectiveness of barriers to entrepreneurship in ANOVA test was used in these villages.
Results and Discussion: The results show the influence of each of the investigated indicators (cultural-social, individual-family, economic, managerial-promotional and environmental-infrastructural). The results of comparing the averages show that the results of the test are significant and there is a significant difference between the indicators of barriers to rural women's entrepreneurship (cultural-social, individual-family, economic, managerial-promotional and environmental-infrastructural) in the villages There is Yasouj tourist attraction.

Abstract Background and Aim: The main goal of this research is to investigate the influencing factors of green human resources management on green supply chain management practices and sustainable performance of Zanjan city.
Methods and Material: The research method is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of data collection method and quantitative in terms of analysis. The statistical population consists of 80 urban experts with sufficient knowledge and understanding of the research variables, and due to the small number of the population, all the experts were used as samples. The conceptual model of the research was proposed by the researcher by combining previous studies and completing the concepts, which consists of 5 main hypotheses. In order to test the hypotheses, the path analysis approach with SPLS software was used.
Results and Discussion: The result of the test indicates a positive effect: "green human resource management practices on green supply chain management practices (internal and external) and sustainability performance" and "internal and external green supply chain management practices on sustainability performance". Then, using the technique of "Preference weighting evaluation ratio analysis" and experts' opinions, the three main structures of the research were evaluated and their priorities were determined. The result showed that the first structure (green human resource management methods) was ranked first in terms of influencing sustainable urban performance, so its methods (development and training, empowerment, reward, performance management, recruitment) were again available to experts and specialists through a questionnaire. was placed and their final evaluation was done. The final analysis showed that the second method (empowerment of human resources) with the highest weight is in the first priority of improving the state of sustainable urban performance. For this purpose, city officials should try to attract people who prioritize environmental concerns, develop their sustainability skills, evaluate their performance from an environmental perspective, and motivate environmentally responsible behavior.

Abstract Background and Objective: Examining the impact of the virtual world on the real world, particularly in the domain of transportation and traffic, is of significant importance. While the metaverse offers potential benefits for the future of transportation, it must be approached with a critical perspective. This theoretical study investigates the influence of the metaverse on real-world transportation systems.
Research Methodology: The primary aim of this study is to challenge our understanding of the metaverse and its implications for transportation, identify its opportunities and challenges, and propose an agenda for future research. This foundational research adopts a document-based and literature review approach. The findings suggest that transportation policymakers must remain aware of metaverse trends and critically evaluate their feasibility.
Findings and Conclusion: Developing a digital twin for transportation infrastructure is both complex and costly, requiring stakeholder collaboration. A cost-benefit analysis is essential to ensure the practicality of such integration. Brand managers can leverage the metaverse to create immersive experiences and enhance brand awareness. Moreover, the metaverse enables virtual tours and virtual test drives. The paper concludes that despite the challenges, the metaverse offers numerous opportunities and demands substantial investment. Finally, recommendations for future research are provided, emphasizing the need to examine the benefits, technical requirements, and socio-economic implications of integrating the metaverse into transportation.

Abstract Introduction: As educational centers, universities play an important role in the development of society and the promotion of sustainable concepts. Despite their size, the green spaces and landscape of universities, including the University of Tabriz, were less welcomed by students. The aim of this study is to improve the design of university open spaces and to identify the qualitative components of these spaces. The university landscape, including green spaces, plays an important role in communication between students and also provides them with opportunities to rest and study.
Method and Material: The research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 10 experts (architects, landscape architects and urban planners) and focused on the role of green spaces in reducing stress, promoting social interactions and increasing visual appeal. The results indicate that university open spaces should be designed as social places for student exchange and interaction. It is recommended to design rooms with unobstructed views, beautiful visual quality, a calm environment and the use of native elements and compatible plants.
Result and discussion: The results show that the design of university open spaces should be viewed as a social place for students' social exchange. Creating publicly accessible spaces, increasing social oversight, eliminating low-canopy species, or mass planting can have an impact on the environment.
Conclusion: These changes can have a positive impact on students' mental and physical recovery and increase their mental readiness to learn, as well as increase social interactions and improve student culture. These insights can be used for better planning and management of university campuses.

Abstract Introduction: Today, the occurrence of extreme phenomena and climate changes, along with the expansion of human activities and encroachment on natural areas, has led to an increase in damages caused by floods. Especially rural settlements due to features such as geographical location, environmental features, physical-spatial structure, and level of possession.
Methods and Material: Therefore, in this research, by analyzing the results of the field visit of 1418 villages in the country, the damage condition of the villages against the flood risk was investigated and after determining several methods presented for immunization, one of these villages has been analyzed by providing the details of the immunization study and hydrological and hydraulic modeling.
Results and Discussion: The results showed that 1169 visited villages are at risk of flooding and respectively, the organization of rivers and floodways with 31.5%, the implementation of watershed management projects in the upstream basin of the villages with 20.8% and then the operation of collecting and directing surface and underground water with 12.3%, were the most important and most frequent solutions to reduce the flood risk in the visited villages.Considering the pervasiveness of improper location selection and the development of constructions on the edges of rivers and the non-observance of the bed and flood protection limits of rivers and floodways, and especially the huge cost of action in the reconstruction and rehabilitation phase after the flood, therefor planning and action in order to prevent and reduce the risk of flooding in accordance with the national disaster risk reduction program, promoting the position of risk reduction considerations in development plans, the implementation of plans to organize and secure rivers and waterways in populated areas, as well as freeing nuisance occupations on the banks of rivers and waterways, are among the priority measures regarding flood risk management.

Abstract Background and Objective: Crime as a social exclusion, despite the density and social cohesion in the creation of social spaces, due to the presence of defenseless and abandoned spaces, has penetrated the perception of public spaces users. From this point of view, the category of creating a sense of security in environmental design with the CPTED approach in urban public spaces, especially the taboos of historical contexts, is worthy of attention. In the meantime, historical markets, which are one of the centers of interactions and confrontations of citizens, should be included in urban policies to improve and recreate safe spaces.
Research Methodology: In this regard, the current research, with a practical approach with a mixed method (qualitative-quantitative) to answer the main question, "What is the efficiency of the process (CPTED) in the sense of security of the users of the spaces of the eastern historical bazaar of Urmia?" I investigated the lands east of the historical bazaar of Urmia. Thus, by randomly distributing the questionnaire to the statistical population of 110 activists, the answer of 86 people is accepted according to Cochran's formula.
Findings and Conclusion: The analysis done in SPSS software of the parameters of the first-generation CPTED approaches shows the impact of the territorialism variable with a value of 0.625 in the highest degree and management and maintenance with a value of 0.194 in the lowest degree. Therefore, the results indicate that the approach to the theory of broken windows and the theory of space crime in improving the lands east of the historical market of Urmia will be of interest in creating safe and sociable spaces. In this way, it provides suggestions for future research.

Abstract Introduction: The city of Ahvaz, as one of the metropolises of Iran, is facing many livability challenges. These problems have severely affected the quality of life of the citizens and the livability in this city and require the special attention of city officials and planners. In this regard, the aim of the current research is to identify and prioritize indicators of good urban governance on the livability of Ahvaz city.
Methods and Material: This research has been done in terms of practical purpose and using descriptive-analytical method. In the qualitative part of the information, theoretical saturation was reached through interviews with 5 experts who were purposefully selected, and the method of thematic analysis identified 2 main components, 12 indicators and 36 effective sub-indices of good urban governance on urban livability in Ahvaz city. During targeted sampling, 40 experts were selected in the field of urban planning, urban development and environment. Then, in the quantitative section, using MARCOS multi-criteria decision-making and the weight of the criteria has been calculated by the hierarchical analysis method. Prioritizing indicators of good urban governance on urban livability in Ahvaz city showed that good urban governance, especially accountability, transparency and efficiency, has a direct effect on improving the quality of life in Ahvaz. The indicators of environment, housing and culture and society are most influenced by good urban governance, while the economic situation of the city needs more attention.
Results and Discussion: The results indicate that the Marcus model is sensitive to possible changes in the importance of decision-making criteria and sustainability. The method of selecting the most important effective factors of good urban governance on urban livability in Ahvaz city has been shown.

Abstract  
Background and Aim: This research focuses on the examination of Vernacular Passive Cooling Systems (VPCSs) in traditional buildings situated in Iran’s hot and dry climates. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these systems in providing thermal comfort without the use of conventional cooling systems. To achieve this goal, the comfort temperature range is determined and compared with the internal temperatures of these buildings. This research involves a review and analysis of studies related to thermal comfort, comfort temperature prediction, and field studies concerning thermal comfort in naturally ventilated indoor spaces. Additionally, it examines validated models for predicting comfort temperature, highlighting their inherent strengths and weaknesses.
Methods and Material: This descriptive-analytical research involves collecting data through library studies and interviews with relevant experts and officials in the studied countries. Data analysis methods include comparative analysis of policies and strategies and case studies of successful countries. Ensuring the accuracy of internal temperature measurements and other climatic variables is crucial, along with the integration of interdisciplinary knowledge from architecture, environmental sciences, and engineering for a comprehensive analysis of passive cooling systems.
Results and Discussion: The results show that passive cooling systems in traditional buildings can provide adequate thermal comfort without conventional cooling systems. These systems utilize natural environmental features and sustainable design to reduce energy consumption and improve environmental sustainability. Optimizing passive cooling techniques can significantly contribute to sustainable development and the preservation of natural resources. A comparative study of active and passive cooling systems also offers a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Abstract Background and Aim: Geotourism is a special form of tourism industry in which tourists are the center of attention. A geosite can be a landscape, a group of various forms of unevenness of the earth's surface (landforms) or a single landform, a rock outcrop, as well as fossil layers or a particular fossil. The present study is to assess the geotourism and geomorphological capabilities in tourist villages of Ardabil province.
Methods and Material: This study is descriptive-analytical-applied in terms of its purpose and uses Pavlova models to evaluate the competitiveness of the studied areas and is based on the formation of positive and negative factors and calculations related to them; The Violet model, which examines geotourism areas based on four criteria of origin, geographical distribution, tourism, and accessibility, and finally the Kobalikova model, which emphasizes scientific, educational, economic, conservation, and additional criteria, was used.
Results and Discussion: Based on the results obtained from the evaluation of the Pavlova geotourism model, these results were obtained: the geotourism areas of Biledarq, Khojin, and Sardabeh were ranked in the excellent, good, and appropriate competitiveness weights, respectively. The results obtained from applying the Violet model also showed that in the management section of the studied areas, Biledarq region was assigned a score of 0.68, and in the tourism rate section, Khojin village was assigned a score of 0.70, which indicates the relative superiority of welfare potentials. Also, based on the results of the Kobalikwa model, the village of Bileh Daragh has obtained high scores in most of the evaluation sub-indices and, with a total score of 11, has a high value compared to other villages under study. Therefore, it is concluded that Bileh Daragh village has high geotourism capabilities and potentials and can play a significant role in the growth and expansion of the tourism industry in the region. Finally, it is suggested that in order to identify the capacities of geotourism areas, they should be evaluated with different models in future studies

Abstract Background and Aim: Urban parks serve as escapes from the city, improving mental and physical health and promoting social interaction. Young people are among the most vulnerable populations in society and are less likely to visit parks, especially girls between the ages of 15 and 24. Young people benefit from urban parks because they improve mental health and reduce loneliness, especially among girls between the ages of 15-24.
Methods and Material: In this study 513 questionnaires were distributed and completed by young girls living in the parks Abidar, Ashti, Rojiar and Kochka-rash were present in Sanandaj city as part of this study. Activities, sociability, and comfort and well-being were the three independent variables that made up the questionnaire. SPSS software was used to analyze the collected data.
Results and Discussion: With a correlation coefficient of 0.800, Spearman correlation results in SPSS software showed that park activities had the greatest impact on reducing young girls' feelings of loneliness. The sociability of the park (correlation coefficient: 0.707) and comfort and well-being (correlation coefficient: 0.682) are then individually ranked second and third. According to the study's findings, young girls' feelings of loneliness in parks can be alleviated by providing them with appropriate opportunities for social interactions and activities, as well as comfort and well-being. By taking their preferences into account, parks can be transformed into spaces that effectively support improvisation.

Abstract Background and Aim: Tourism as a modern phenomenon has an economic nature and has a special role and importance for countries that have this capacity. Geotourism is a combination of the words "geo" meaning earth and "tourism" meaning tourism. The purpose of this research is to evaluate geotourism potentials and its management in the tourist area of Andimeshk township.
Methods and Material: The research method in this study is based on two models: Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba and Kubalikova. The Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba model is suitable for evaluating geosites located in protected areas. Geosites are evaluated in this method based on three main criteria that help evaluate scientific and management values ​​and are considered a suitable method for the studied area. In the Kubalikova model, the criteria are classified into five groups: scientific and intrinsic values, educational values, economic values, conservation values, and other values, which cover almost all geotourism features.
Results and Discussion: The results of the evaluation based on the Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba model showed that the geomorphosite of the Chehelpa region has obtained the highest score. Also, in the cultural evaluation, the Dez Dam has the highest score, and in the field of geomorphosite usability and management capabilities, the Valfajr coastal tourism area has received the highest score. The results of the Kubalikova model evaluation also indicate that the Dez Dam and the Karkheh Dam have obtained the highest score in terms of geosite valuation, and Qaleh Razeh has the lowest score. Therefore, based on the validation of the models, it can be concluded that the Dez geotourism area in Khuzestan has a great potential for development by obtaining the highest score. Finally, it is suggested that in future studies, artificial intelligence should be used to evaluate the geotourism areas under study and achieve more accurate results.

Abstract Background and Objective: Over the past few decades, discussions related to human development and its impact on economic growth have been of particular importance. The Human Development Index is a combination of three key components: life expectancy, per capita income, and literacy level, and is used to measure the level of development, analyze spatial justice, and regional inequality at the national and regional levels. In this regard, the aim of the present study is to investigate the economic factors affecting the improvement of the Human Development Index in Ardabil province. The type of research is descriptive-analytical.
Methodology: The method of this study is based on quantitative-spatial approaches. The research method used in this study is a combination of documentary-library methods. In the analytical section, by considering the indicators and considerations of human development in the form of 13 target indicators, the economic factors affecting the improvement of the Human Development Index in Ardabil province have been examined on a case-by-case basis. To collect the required information, the main reliance was on the documents of the National Statistics Center, and the Morris model, GIS software, and Spss were used to analyze the collected data.
Findings and Conclusion: The results show that in terms of human development index, the three counties of Ardabil, Parsabad, and Meshginshahr are in the highest ranks, and the three counties of Kowsar, Namin, and Sarein are in the lowest ranks. Also, the spatial distribution of the human development index among the counties of the province shows that the central and northern counties of the province have relatively better conditions than the southern counties. Regarding the factors affecting the human development index, the results of the article showed that the indicators of rural percentage, household size, unemployment rate, dependency burden, actual dependency burden, theoretical dependency burden, and percentage of industrial sector employees, with correlation coefficients of 0.726, 0.768, 0.245, 0.512, 0.512, and 0.598, respectively, had a statistically significant negative relationship with the human development index, and the indicators of urbanization percentage, employment rate, economic participation rate, women's economic participation rate, percentage of agricultural sector employees, and percentage of service sector employees, with correlation coefficients of 0.726, 0.245, 0.395, 0.101, and 0.435, respectively, had a statistically significant positive relationship with the human development index.

Abstract Background & Aim: Several factors contribute to the development of tourism in a region, among which climate is one of the most significant. Climate acts as a key driver or deterrent for tourism in any given area. This study aims to compare the results of two models, TCI (Tourism Climate Index) and UTCI (Universal Thermal Climate Index), and to provide a climate zoning analysis for comfort and discomfort in various locations across the provinces of Ardabil, West Azerbaijan, and East Azerbaijan on a monthly and seasonal scale.
Methods and Material: In this research, based on the thermal thresholds of the TCI and UTCI indices, a bioclimatic atlas for the provinces of Ardabil, West Azerbaijan, and East Azerbaijan was developed on a monthly and seasonal basis, and the results were compared. The UTCI index was calculated using RayMan and Bioklima software. The data were interpolated using the Kriging method in ArcGIS, and the corresponding maps were created.
Results & Conclusion:
According to the results of the TCI index, the months of May, June, July, August, and September generally show favorable conditions across all stations, except for Parsabad in September, Mianeh and Khoy in August and July, Kaleybar in May, and Jolfa in June, which exhibit less favorable conditions. The seasonal analysis indicates that most stations in spring and summer are suitable, except for Parsabad in summer, Kaleybar in spring, and Jolfa and Khoy in summer, where conditions are less favorable. The results of the UTCI index reveal that, during May, June, July, August, and September, all stations exhibit favorable conditions except Parsabad and Sahand in May, which display less favorable conditions. In the seasonal analysis, all stations show suitable conditions in spring and summer, except for Sahand in spring. Based on the results, due to the mountainous nature of the studied provinces and the presence of snow and winter conditions conducive to winter tourism, planning can be undertaken to promote winter tourism, considering the months with more favorable numerical index values.

Abstract Background and purpose: Government financial policies are one of the macroeconomic policies to improve or control economic variables, including the level of total consumption and employment. Based on this, the purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of government financial policies, including changes in government expenditures and taxes, on private sector consumption and employment in Iraq in different economic conditions.

Methodology: This research was conducted using vector autoregression model to analyze time series data. This method provides the possibility of examining dynamic relationships between financial policies and macroeconomic variables such as consumption and employment.

Findings and results: The findings show that increasing government spending generally increases private sector consumption, but the effects of taxes are more complex and depend on economic conditions. Also, tax changes have different effects on employment and can be positive or negative depending on the initial employment level and economic conditions. Therefore, the findings show that the government's financial policies act as an effective tool in stimulating or reducing private consumption and employment. Therefore, based on the findings, it can be concluded that in order to improve the effects of financial policies on economic variables in Iraq, there is a need to regulate financial policies in order to reduce their negative effects on macroeconomic variables.

Abstract Background and Objective: The building breach is the difficulty that still remains unsolved as the cities are becoming more problematical and challenging. The increased extent and size of building breach and the harms on cities is undeniable and it is necessary to suitable action to prevent it. The present study aims to investigate the patterns that violate the constructions in Ramshir city.
Methodology: It is an applied study that uses a descriptive- analytical method to examine the breach patterns and identify the preventative factors and their spatial distribution in that city. The required data was collected using a questionnaire filled by citizens that followed by recognizing the spatial construction breach distribution using ARCGIS package. To analyze the data, in addition to ARCGIS, the SPSS and EXCEL packages as well as combinational –analytical model ANP- DEMATEL were used.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed that the   dominantly violating patterns in Ramshir is the addition of building index with an average 2.33 within five past years out of 8 indices. The elements affecting on the construction breach from citizens’ perspective, is the social factors with an average 3.95. Among the influencing measures for evaluating the rate of breach in Ramshir, it should be said that the most influential index is “having too little information of construction rules” index. The neighborhood3 and4 have the highest breach in construction. Finally, the recommendations and solutions were given.

Abstract Background and Aim: Energy and technology, as two main factors of production, play a prominent role in improving and sustaining the economic growth of countries. Today, a larger part of economic growth is attributed to the efficient use of energy and technology than in the past. Awareness of the impact of technology and energy on economic growth can lead policymakers to pursue more optimal strategies to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth and development, and in the long term, economic prosperity will affect the well-being of society. Given the importance of the research and the necessity of the present study, the aim of this study is to examine the impact of energy and technology consumption on the economic growth of Iraq.
Methodology: In the present study, the auto-explanatory model with extended lags (ARDL) was used to examine the impact of energy and technology consumption on the economic growth of Iraq during the period 2000 to 2022.
Findings and Conclusion: The results of this study show that the coefficient of the impact of energy consumption on economic growth in Iraq was 0.073 and the estimated T-statistic was 2.16. Given that the absolute value of the t-statistic was greater than the critical value at the 95% confidence level (1.96), it can be stated that energy consumption had a positive and significant effect on economic growth. Another result showed that the coefficient of influence of the technology index on economic growth in Iraq was 0.129 and the estimated T-statistic was 3.34. Given that the absolute value of the t-statistic was greater than the critical value at the 95% confidence level (1.96), it can be stated that the technology index had a positive and significant effect on economic growth. Also, the error correction coefficient was -0.576, which was statistically significant, indicating that if a shock were to occur to the economic growth rate in Iraq, 0.576 percent of the imbalance in the economic growth rate would be adjusted during each period and would approach its long-term trend.

Abstract Background and objective: Global soil maps, such as the data provided by FAO and other data sets, serve as an important basis for modeling hydrological processes. However, these maps are often not suitable for accurate calibration of models such as SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Model) due to their large scale or lack of sufficient detail. This challenge is especially evident in marginal logic with limited access to data.
Research method: The present study aims to prepare a soil map and its parameters for the hydrological SWAT model of the Sehazhar watershed in northern Iran, Tonekabon County, Mazandaran Province. Therefore, using remote sensing and geological map data and slope map, it takes a step towards helping to solve this problem that exists in watershed studies in areas lacking soil data. For this purpose, first, from the World Soil Map (FAO), then by averaging based on geological map information such as formation type, period, rock type and hydrological group, and slope map, 5 general soil types with their characteristics were extracted. Then, they were converted into soil maps in Geographic Information System (GIS) software. The adjacent basin of the Sardabrood region (Kalardasht) was also used for comparison and validation.
Findings and conclusions: In this study, 10 soil factors required for use in the SWAT model were extracted, including: number of layers, soil depth, horizon thickness, bulk density, available water capacity, saturated electrical conductivity, soil organic matter, clay, silt, sand, rock in the horizon, and albedo ratio. According to the results of the study, 5 general soil types of the basin include: chernozem or pseudo-chernozem soils, verticillium, molly-soil, podzol, and lithosol. The results of the validation of the present study showed that using the above method to facilitate the preparation of soil maps and the estimation of soil data values ​​has acceptable accuracy. Therefore, in areas without soil data and in studies with time constraints, the soil data preparation method is the appropriate method. Therefore, a promising solution is to use geological maps and remote sensing analyses to extract soil characteristics.

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism examines geological features, such as rock structures, tectonic processes, and natural phenomena such as caves, springs, and mountains. These features can be used in the present study to evaluate and quantify the capacities of tourism land in order to attract tourism in Karaj city based on quantitative models (case study: villages of Berghan, Varian, Sanj Kordan).
Methodology: In this study, two quantitative models, Kobalikva and Feullet, which are indicated by the abbreviations (K) and (F), have been used. In the Kobalikva method, which emphasizes more on scientific, educational, economic, conservation and additional criteria, and evaluates the studied areas by comparing sub-criteria. In the national park model, geotourism areas are examined based on four criteria: origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism and accessibility.
Results and findings: The results of the evaluation of the Kobalikva geotourism model showed that the village of Berghan has a high potential for attracting tourists, with a score of 11.5. Also, according to the results, the water village of Varian is in second place with a score of 8, and the reason is that compared to the village of Burghan received a lower score due to difficult access and its only waterway. And the third region in terms of tourism with a score of 6 is the village of Sanj Kordan. The Violet model also showed that Burghan tourism region has the highest potential in the studied areas with a score of 75.10. Based on the results in this model, Burghan's management and tourism rate was estimated to be very excellent. Therefore, it is concluded that based on the results, Burghan's geotourism region has appropriate capabilities for tourism development in Karaj Township in Alborz Province compared to other studied areas. Finally, it is suggested that artificial intelligence capabilities be used in future studies to evaluate the studied areas.

Abstract Background and Objective: Effective urban waste management is a critical challenge in Ahvaz, Iran. The city faces growing environmental, health, and social issues due to increasing population, escalating waste generation, and insufficient infrastructure and planning. In this context, urban governance, defined as the set of mechanisms, institutions, and decision-making and implementation processes, plays a particularly crucial role.
Methodology: This applied research aims to investigate the relationship between various urban governance indicators and urban waste management in Ahvaz. Its nature and method are analytical-exploratory. From a statistical population of 1,302,591 Ahvaz citizens, a sample of 386 individuals was selected using Cochran's formula. Data collection was carried out using a researcher-developed questionnaire, which demonstrated confirmed content (face) and construct validity, along with acceptable composite reliability. The data was analyzed using correlation analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM), employing SPSS and Smart PLS software.
Results and Findings: The results from the structural equation modeling reveal a strong and significant relationship (p<0.05) between urban governance indicators and urban waste management. This clearly demonstrates that improving urban governance in Ahvaz will directly lead to a more robust and efficient urban waste management system. Furthermore, the model fit indices indicate a strong alignment between the data and the conceptual model, reinforcing the validity and reliability of the modeling results. This confirms that the proposed model effectively explains the relationship between the variables under study.
A comparison of correlation coefficients shows that waste generation has a particularly strong and close link with waste segregation and recycling. In contrast, waste collection exhibits a weaker correlation compared to other dimensions of urban waste management. Additionally, the PLS test results ranked the urban waste management indicators as follows: waste segregation and recycling (201.658 points), waste generation (148.120 points), waste treatment and disposal (66.819 points), and waste collection (21.398 points). These findings underscore the pivotal role of urban governance, especially in strengthening the infrastructure and processes for waste segregation and recycling. This highlights the necessity of investing and giving special attention to improving urban governance indicators as a fundamental prerequisite for achieving an efficient and sustainable urban waste management system.

Abstract Background and Objective: The spatial distribution of urban services and facilities, particularly in the field of health and healthcare, is a key issue in urban planning. Pharmacies, as critical units for providing medications and health services, must be spatially distributed in a way that ensures spatial justice and equitable access for all citizens. Therefore, both qualitative and quantitative assessments of land use within the city’s spatial structure and their locational suitability across defined zones are of great importance. In recent years, Ardabil has experienced rapid population growth and physical expansion, intensifying the need for the development and equitable distribution of pharmaceutical services. The aim of this study is to examine the pattern of distribution, spatial dispersion, and location allocation of pharmacies across the districts of Ardabil city using the capabilities and tools of ArcGIS.
Methodology: This research is descriptive-analytical in nature and the required data were collected through documentary and field methods. The statistical population includes all active pharmacies in the city of Ardabil. Considering the trans-neighborhood operation of pharmacies, the analyses were conducted at the scale of urban areas. To examine the spatial pattern of distribution and dispersion of pharmacies, several analytical capabilities were used in the ArcGIS environment; including hot spot analysis (Getis-Ord Gi) to identify statistically significant clusters*, Moran's spatial autocorrelation index (Moran's I) to measure the degree of spatial dependence, and nearest neighbor mean analysis to identify the type of cluster or dispersed pattern in the spatial distribution of pharmacies. Spatial data were collected using GPS and transferred to the ArcGIS environment via Google Earth. The simultaneous combination of these analytical tools along with the high accuracy of spatial data is the main innovation of this research compared to previous studies.
Results and Findings: In terms of quantity, District 2-1, with 57 pharmacies, represents the main concentration center of pharmacies in Ardabil, whereas Districts 2-3, 2-4, and 1-5 each have only one pharmacy. The results of Hot Spot analysis indicated high Z-values and a significant hot spot in District 2-1 with a 99% confidence level, while other districts did not exhibit similar patterns. The Moran’s I index (0.0808) suggests a random distribution pattern of pharmacies across the city districts. However, the average nearest neighbor ratio (0.49) indicates a clustered pattern in the spatial distribution of pharmacies within Ardabil. The study reveals a spatial concentration of pharmacies in certain districts of Ardabil, particularly in District 2-1, leading to unequal access across the city. Central districts benefit from better service coverage due to their proximity to healthcare centers, while peripheral areas face shortages. Although this clustering improves efficiency in some areas, it undermines spatial equity. The research highlights the need to revise location policies for pharmacies and calls for a more balanced distribution to enhance access, improve service efficiency, and promote equity in the urban health system.

Abstract Background and Objective: The quality of the residential environment is a dynamic, complex, and multidimensional concept that is formed from dimensions. In this regard, one of the appropriate ways to assess the quality of the residential environment is to measure the satisfaction of residents with that environment. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the satisfaction of the residential environment in the city of Arbil for future planning.
Methodology: The research method is applied in terms of its purpose and descriptive-analytical in nature and method. The information required in this study was collected through field and documentary methods. The statistical population of the study is residents of different neighborhoods (wealthy, middle-class, and poor). SPSS software was used to analyze the data. In this regard, one-sample t-tests were used. Finally, the Friedman test was used to rank the indicators under study.
Results and Findings: Based on the one-sample t-test, residents' satisfaction with their residential environment in wealthy residential neighborhoods was (3.516), in middle-income neighborhoods it was (3.272), and in poor neighborhoods it was (2.196). Based on the Friedman test, the security index was ranked first and the lighting and ventilation index was ranked last. According to the results of the present study, the level of satisfaction is relative and varies in different urban areas and neighborhoods and has yielded different results. The results of the study showed that satisfaction in different neighborhoods of Arbil is (3.233) and is at an average level.

Abstract Background and Objective: Tourism is one of the most important factors in economic and social development across societies, playing a key role in global economic growth by influencing capital transfer and financial circulation. Iran, with its unique geological and geomorphological capacities, holds significant potential for geotourism development; however, this field remains in its early stages of growth. This study aimed to assess the geotourism potential of geosites in Hashtjin Township, located in the southern part of Ardabil Province.
Methodology: In this research, after selecting five geosites in the Township for analysis and evaluation, tools such as questionnaires, geological and topographic maps, and ArcGIS software were utilized. Finally, the geotourism potential of these geosites was assessed using the Kubalíková model.
Results and Findings: The results revealed that Qezel Ozan River (score: 11.25) and Agh Dagh Mountain (score:10.15) achieved the highest rankings and attract the most tourists during peak seasons. In contrast, Diz Waterfall (6.5), Nodeh Waterfall (5.15), and Zaviyeh Jafarabad Hot Spring (4.85) received lower rankings. Criterion analysis indicated that value-added (31%) held the highest importance, while economic value (7%) had the least significance. However, the economic status of the geosites was not evaluated as favorable.
Conclusion: Shortcomings such as insufficient infrastructure and uneven distribution of facilities have hindered the Township from achieving higher geotourism potential rankings. Strengthening existing strengths, addressing infrastructural weaknesses, educating and raising awareness among local communities, and developing promotional programs could significantly improve the region’s geotourism status. Additionally, collaboration between governmental institutions and the private sector in tourism investments could play a pivotal role in optimally leveraging the natural and historical capacities of this Township.

Abstract Background and Objective: Geomorphosites are a novel concept in tourism studies, emphasizing unique locations with scientific, ecological, cultural, aesthetic, and economic values. In recent years, geotourism and geomorphotourism have emerged as highly appealing concepts, attracting a diverse range of individuals with varied interests, as well as governments, environmental groups, and conservation organizations. The aim of this study is to evaluate the geotourism potential of karst landforms in Azarshahr Township using the Reynard method.
Methodology: For this purpose, field surveys were conducted to assess two main criteria: scientific value, added value, and a composite value. The scientific value comprises conservation status, rarity, representativeness, and paleogeographic significance, while the added value includes cultural, historical, religious, geohistorical, and economic values. The composite value encompasses global significance, educational value, threats, and management measures.
Results and Findings: The findings revealed that the geomorphosites in the region scored highest in the main criteria as follows: scientific value (0.53), composite value (0.47), and added value (0.34). Among the sub-criteria, educational value (0.79), paleogeography and geohistory (0.75), and threats (0.70) received the highest scores. In terms of geotourism potential, the examined landforms—travertines, springs, and caves—demonstrated the highest capacity to attract tourists across the three evaluation criteria (scientific value, added value, and composite value).