Document Type : Review/Research Article

Authors

• Zahra Moradi ¹
• somayeh azami ²

¹ Razi University

² razi university

Abstract

Water is fundamental to life and essential for sustainable development and social welfare. Iran is currently facing a severe water crisis, which has been intensified by climate change and regional water scarcity. This study examines the factors contributing to water stress in Iran from 1975 to 2019. Cointegration tests reveal long-term relationships among key variables. Results from DOLS and FMOLS estimates indicate that while precipitation has no significant effect on water stress, temperature, arable land, permanent crops, GDP per capita, and sanctions significantly exacerbate it. The primary drivers of water stress in Iran are rising temperatures, agricultural activities, and economic sanctions. While economic analyses often prioritize air pollution and carbon emissions as environmental metrics, this narrow focus overlooks broader challenges. In Iran, dust storms and water scarcity pose significant threats, requiring urgent action to prevent a worsening crisis. Policymakers should reconsider agricultural self-sufficiency goals, strengthen diplomatic efforts to mitigate sanctions, and implement robust water management strategies. Addressing water stress in Iran aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), and the impact of climate change on food production (SDG 13).

Keywords

• Water stress, Iran, sanctions, Agriculture,FMOLS &
• DOLS

Main Subjects

• Environmental, Resource and Energy Economics