Enhancing Sustainable Communities through the Protection of Natural Buffer Zones

Abstract

Certain regions within Middle Eastern countries are vulnerable to
climate-related hazards, including floods and dust storms, resulting in
adverse consequences for these nations and hindering the sustainable
development of urban communities. The preservation and development
of natural buffer zones, such as green spaces and surface waters, offer
nature-based solutions to shield urban areas from the impacts of these
hazards. This article examines the significance and legal protection of
these buffer zones and concludes that, despite their effectiveness in
mitigating floods and dust storms, natural buffer zones have not received
distinct recognition as protective zones for urban areas in international
and national legal frameworks. The study recommends the integration of
natural buffer zones preservation and development into national and
regional urban planning and disaster risk management policies and
strategies, highlighting their role as nature-based solutions for enhancing
urban sustainability in the Middle East, especially Iran.