Assessment of environmental challenges in Iran: Findings from the 2024 environmental performance index and expert opinions

The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) is an essential tool for evaluating countries environmental performance, incorporating diverse criteria and data to assess both environment conditions and the impact of human activities. This study investigates Iran’s current standing in the 2024 EPI and presents insights experts opinions in environmental health to identify the country's major environmental challenges. Iran ranks 113th out of 180 countries and 10th in the Middle East. Key issues affecting environmental health include air pollution, waste-related environmental contamination, pesticide pollution, water scarcity, excessive groundwater extraction, and a general disregard for environmental sustainability. These challenges are of serious concern to experts and are regarded as top national priorities. Air pollution, waste-related contamination, pesticide use, water scarcity, and unsustainable groundwater extraction are consistently highlighted as the most pressing concerns. The most critical problems relate to air quality and climate change. Addressing these challenges requires strengthening environmental governance through effective regulations and the development of comprehensive national programs. Such measures are essential for improving environmental conditions and Iran's EPI performance.