ENHANCING ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH THE SUSTAINABLE URBAN TOURISM: CASE STUDY OF NORTHERN TEHRAN, IRAN

Environmental degradation has emerged as a critical global challenge, demanding urgent research into effective strategies for mitigation and sustainable development. This study investigates the intricate relationship between tourism and environmental sustainability in North Tehran, Iran, a region renowned for its natural attractions yet facing significant ecological pressures. By integrating Landsat satellite imagery with comprehensive field surveys, the research employs a mixed-method approach, combining descriptive and analytical techniques, SWOT analysis, and inferential statistics to assess the environmental impact of tourism activities. The findings reveal a troubling trend: while tourism-driven economic activities and improved amenities have bolstered the region's appeal, they have also exacerbated environmental degradation. Notably, the conversion of agricultural lands into commercial developments has led to a dramatic decline in vegetation cover, with satellite data indicating a loss of over 130 square kilometers of green space between 1985 and 2022. This transformation has resulted in soil erosion, deforestation, and biodiversity loss, threatening the region's ecological balance. The study underscores the dual role of tourism as both an economic driver and an environmental stressor, highlighting the need for sustainable practices that balance economic growth with ecological preservation. By identifying key factors contributing to environmental degradation, such as unregulated construction and land-use changes, the research provides actionable insights for policymakers. Strategic recommendations include the implementation of sustainable tourism policies, enhanced community involvement, and the promotion of eco-friendly infrastructure. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating environmental conservation into tourism planning to mitigate resource depletion, protect biodiversity, and ensure long-term socio-economic benefits. This study not only contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable tourism but also offers a tailored framework for addressing the unique ecological and socio-economic challenges of North Tehran, serving as a model for other regions grappling with similar issues. The research also highlights the potential of ecotourism as a sustainable alternative, emphasizing the need for strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and community engagement to preserve natural resources while fostering economic growth. By leveraging tools like the CAMP model and SWOT analysis, the study proposes actionable strategies to mitigate environmental risks and enhance tourism resilience.