Document Type : scientific-research article
Authors
1 Department of Environmental Planning and Management and HSE, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
As the escalating degradation of ecosystems in recent years, there is an urgent need for focused attention on ecosystem restoration. Concurrently, the past decade has witnessed a marked increase in research and studies addressing ecosystem restoration. Accordingly, the present study aims to compile, review, and synthesize the major findings of ecological restoration research conducted in Iran over the past two decades, to establish a unified, coherent, and comprehensive perspective on the science of ecological restoration in the country. Employing a research synthesis methodology, the study population comprises peer-reviewed scientific articles pertaining to ecosystem restoration across five critical ecosystems: rivers, lakes, wetlands, forests, and rangelands. Through systematic searches in major scientific indexing databases, 8,507 articles were initially identified based on predefined inclusion criteria. After a rigorous five-stage screening process, 82 high-quality articles were selected for final analysis. Data organization and documentation were facilitated using a structured Excel worksheet, while findings were analyzed through Roberts' six-step research synthesis model, incorporating open and axial coding techniques. Key findings highlight two predominant components in ecosystem restoration: (1) restoration strategies and methodologies, and (2) critical factors influencing restoration effectiveness. The analysis reveals a significant disparity in available literature, with English-language resources substantially outnumbering Persian sources. Given the pressing need for ecosystem restoration across Iran's vulnerable landscapes, the study underscores the necessity for enhanced focus and investment in this field. Finally, this paper's policy Recommendations are: 1) Establishing a national knowledge translation platform to bridge the gap between international restoration science and local implementation contexts. and 2) Implementing capacity-building programs to develop indigenous restoration expertise tailored to Iran's unique biogeographical conditions.
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