Document Type : Research-Case Study
Authors
1
Assistant Professor of Geography and Rural Planning, Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
2
MA student in Environmental Hazards, Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
Abstract
Environmental risks are an inseparable part of the interplay between humans and the environment, which, due to its growing consequences, has come under spotlight in planning and decision-making systems of countries, especially in the developing world. Peri-urban spaces can be subject to irreparable damages inflicted by environmental risks, as they have become a destination for a growing population of migrants to large cities (regional and national) or urban escapees. It is because risky behavior has wreaked havoc on natural and man-made foundations in peri-urban areas. Within the framework of risk management, identifying the types of risks, measuring them, making decisions to address them (countermeasures) and monitoring are some of basic measures. Awareness of local strategies for managing environmental risks is a strategic priority for sustainable planning. Given the role of executive managers in dealing with risks, this research attempts to investigate the mental models of local managers (Dehyaran) about strategies for dealing with environmental risks in the peri-urban area of Birjand. In this applied nature, a descriptive method had been adopted. Data collection involved documentary studies, interviews, and a survey of the managers’ views. The findings were analyzed using the Q method in SPSS software. According to the results, 18 types of risks (both natural and human-induced) have emerged in the peri-urban area of Birjand. According to local managers, 26 propositions (solutions) can be considered in the form of three mental models for tackling environmental risks. The themes of the identified models include "improving issues in the physical dimension", "enhancing factors that strengthen the sense of security in the residential pathways", and "growth of financial and human capital in the local community". Ultimately, local managers posit that the management of environmental hazards in the peri-urban areas of Birjand is contingent upon the tactfulness and problem-solving of human issues.
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