Economic Sanctions and Environmental Consequences in Iran: An Analysis of International Responsibility from the Perspective of International Environmental Law

Introduction: Economic sanctions, as political and economic tools, extend beyond their intended scope, often causing significant environmental consequences. These sanctions, by limiting access to advanced technologies and modern industrial equipment, exacerbate environmental issues in countries with vulnerable ecological infrastructures, such as Iran. The resulting impacts include natural resource degradation, increased air and water pollution, and reduced energy efficiency. A scientific and legal investigation into these effects within the framework of international environmental law is essential, particularly concerning the obligations of sanctioning states regarding transboundary and environmental impacts. This study explores the scientific and legal dimensions of sanctions’ effects on Iran’s environment.Materials and Methods: This research employs content analysis to examine the environmental impacts of economic sanctions. The data utilized includes official domestic and international reports, scientific articles, and an analysis of international environmental law. The study specifically evaluates key principles of international law, including the "no harm" principle, "common but differentiated responsibilities," and "sustainable development." Field data were collected through an assessment of energy, transportation, and natural resource sectors during the sanctions period. Additionally, a comparative analysis was conducted between Iran’s environmental indicators and those of economically and geographically similar countries.Results: The findings reveal that economic sanctions have had far-reaching effects on Iran’s environment. In the energy sector, restricted access to advanced technologies and modern equipment has resulted in the production of low-quality fuels, leading to increased pollutant emissions. This situation has caused severe air pollution in major cities like Tehran, decreased quality of life, and increased respiratory illnesses. Furthermore, the aging public transportation fleet and the inability to replace outdated vehicles have intensified pollution and reduced energy efficiency. In the agricultural sector, sanctions have restricted access to high-quality fertilizers and pesticides, leading to the use of substandard chemicals that have degraded soil, reduced land fertility, and polluted water resources. The destruction of wetlands, particularly Hamoun and Miankaleh wetlands, due to the suspension of ecological restoration projects, has exacerbated dust storms and reduced biodiversity in the region. Additionally, budget cuts for environmental initiatives and prioritization of economic concerns over ecological projects have led to the suspension of many ecosystem restoration plans. Sanctions have also posed a significant barrier to international cooperation in green technology transfer and technical knowledge. These limitations have not only weakened Iran’s ability to reduce pollution and manage natural resources sustainably but have also restricted scientific and research collaborations with international institutions. Moreover, the economic pressures stemming from sanctions have reduced Iran’s capacity to fulfill its international environmental commitments.Discussion: Economic sanctions, beyond their economic and political impacts, have caused substantial environmental consequences that warrant a reevaluation of sanctions policies. These sanctions have violated fundamental principles of international environmental law and have had transboundary effects, such as increased air pollution and the destruction of shared habitats with neighboring countries. Sanctioning states, under international obligations, must address environmental damages caused by their actions. They should actively participate in mitigating these impacts through green technology transfers and support for environmental projects. Establishing international mechanisms to monitor the environmental impacts of sanctions and strengthening environmental cooperation are essential steps toward achieving sustainable development and reducing the negative consequences of sanctions.