Sources and Impacts of Dust Pollution in Iran: A Comprehensive Overview

Abstract

Dust pollution is an escalating environmental concern in Iran, profoundly impacting public health, agriculture, and infrastructure. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources, transport mechanisms, and socio-economic effects of dust storms while highlighting strategies for effective mitigation. Unsustainable land management practices and climate variability exacerbate dust generation, necessitating comprehensive governance reforms that integrate climate adaptation, land use planning, and pollution control. Enhanced research and monitoring efforts, including the use of satellite remote sensing, aerosol monitoring stations, and predictive models, are critical for identifying dust hotspots and assessing temporal trends. Expanding research to evaluate the socio-economic impacts of dust on agriculture, public health, and infrastructure is essential for formulating targeted policies. Furthermore, integrating predictive modeling with climate change projections provides valuable insights into future trends, enabling proactive adaptation strategies. Strengthening collaborations with international research institutions fosters knowledge transfer and aligns Iran’s initiatives with global best practices. Collectively, these efforts, when combined with public awareness campaigns and sustainable land management reforms, offer a comprehensive framework for addressing dust pollution and its associated challenges.