Analysis of environmental sustainability using ecological footprint and bio-carrying capacity

To achieve sustainable development, it is crucial to conserve natural lands and implement sustainable land-use strategies. Environmental sustainability can be measured using indicators like Ecological Carrying Capacity (ECC) and Biological Capacity (BC). In this study, the ecological sustainability and potential trends of land degradation of Khorasan Razavi in Northeastern Iran were assessed using both Ecological Footprint (EF) and biological capacity. EF was calculated based on a combination of carbon footprint, agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, and protein production and BC was determined according to land-use patterns. These indicators were analyzed at both regional and county levels to assess overall sustainability. The study area exhibited an EF of 31 Million (M) global hectares (gha) and a BC of 12.7 M gha, revealing an ecological deficit and unbalanced land development. To mitigate this, an area approximately 2.4 times larger than the current one would be required. In some parts of the region, the EF was found to be 21.1 M gha-substantially surpassing the biological capacity of 1.2 M gha, further indicating unsustainable land use. Over time, the over-exploitation and degradation of natural lands have contributed to the widening gap between EF and BC. This ecological imbalance can be addressed by reducing consumption, improving production efficiency, adopting advanced eco-friendly technologies, and expanding green areas to boost carbon sequestration. In addition, effective land-use regulations are necessary to achieve long-term sustainable development goals.