Journal of Complex Adaptive Systems

Journal of Complex Adaptive Systems

Rethinking Makran Coastal Region Development Plans: Policy Gaps and Pathways within the Planetary Boundaries Framework

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Hannaneh Sadat Sadat Mousavi 1
Majid Rahimi 2
1 Department of Natural Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.
2 Social Business Institute, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jcas.2025.104029
Abstract
Objective: The study evaluates development approaches in the Makran region in southeastern Iran, examining their compatibility with ecological capacities using the planetary boundaries and resilience theory frameworks. It aims to identify shortcomings in addressing environmental thresholds and social‑ecological resilience within key planning documents.
Methods: A critical‑analytical approach and content analysis were applied to major planning documents, including the Strategic Development Document for the Makran Coasts, provincial land‑use plans, and free zone programs. The analysis focused on how these documents address climate change, land‑use change, biodiversity loss, freshwater scarcity, community participation, and strategic environmental assessments.
Results: The review reveals that dominant development approaches prioritize infrastructure expansion and lack adequate ecological assessment, placing pressure on natural resources and reducing social‑ecological resilience. The documents show critical shortcomings in addressing environmental thresholds related to climate change, land‑use change, biodiversity loss, and freshwater scarcity. Limited opportunities for community participation and the absence of strategic environmental assessments further weaken resilience. International experiences from the European Union and Southeast Asia demonstrate more effective integration of environmental frameworks and participatory governance.
Conclusion: The study argues that policy‑making for Makran’s development must be restructured around ecological thresholds, local capacities, and resilience principles. Without such reform, ongoing trends risk exacerbating environmental degradation, social vulnerability, and ecological insecurity. The findings provide pathways for revising development documents, strengthening environmental governance, and promoting sustainable coastal development within the planetary boundaries framework.
Keywords
Coastal Sustainability
Environmental Governance
Integrated Natural Resource Management
National Policy Statements
Social-Ecological Resilience
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Journal of Complex Adaptive Systems
Volume 1, Issue 1
Winter 2026
Pages 134-153