{"id":11154,"date":"2026-04-09T09:07:07","date_gmt":"2026-04-09T05:37:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/headquarters-organizational-structure\/"},"modified":"2026-08-08T11:24:37","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T07:54:37","slug":"headquarters-organizational-structure","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/headquarters-organizational-structure\/","title":{"rendered":"Headquarters organizational structure"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Headquarters organizational structure<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Cycling and health<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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((Today, cycling is not just fun, it is a solution to a problem))<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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In proportion to the growth of technology, human muscular activity has decreased, and urban, machine-driven life has caused less attention to be paid to exercise and physical activity among people. The car takes over all physical tasks, from home to workplace, and muscular strength gradually deteriorates, while the nervous pressures of machine-based life put mental health under strain. Machine-obsessed societies become exhausted and expose individuals to various personal and social harms. On the other hand, the pollution produced by cars and various industries has negatively affected not only human life but also the lives of all living beings and the future of the planet. For this reason, in recent years, the physical and mental health of different segments of society has been threatened by various respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, skin, and psychological diseases, followed by depression. The excessive use of fossil-fuel vehicles not only depletes underground reserves and wastes considerable national budgets but also has highly destructive, harmful, and sometimes irreparable effects on society and its individuals.<\/span><\/p>

Therefore, the industrialization of societies and the growth of industries in all fields, along with the accelerated movement of humans toward mechanizing all aspects of life, prompted some people who were concerned about human health and the environment to take actions aimed at warning and highlighting the dangers and problems of the crisis that would afflict future generations. Hence, various societies have considered many ways to cope with these crises in order to have a healthy society and a bright future. Some of these activities include: promoting public sports in the context of community health, using public transportation, producing modern vehicles with low energy consumption\u2014in other words, clean transportation in the transport industry\u2014and developing the culture of using clean and renewable energies such as wind and solar power in the industrial sector. And thus, the use of bicycles\u2014the outcome of the aforementioned activities, or more simply put, this masterpiece of physics\u2014as a vehicle that converts human muscular power into kinetic energy to turn wheels, enjoying the highest energy efficiency compared to any other device ever built, received greater attention, and bicycles found their place among people. This is because the bicycle is the only vehicle that, without causing air or noise pollution, can also serve as a suitable, healthy, and low-cost form of exercise. When we think about issues related to traffic, air pollution, motorized travel from one point to another, and the lack of mobility and movement, we must admit that one of the most beneficial and cost-effective solutions seems to be the use of bicycles as a compact, comfortable, joyful, body-building, and entertaining means of transportation. Therefore, it is essential that cycling and its culture be given serious attention. Today, bicycles play an important role in urban traffic management, and in some cities around the world, a significant share of intra-city trips is made by bicycle. Countries such as Japan and China, which started using bicycles between 1970 and 1980, today declare bicycles as the most important means of transportation in their societies. This movement later spread to Europe and America as well.<\/span><\/p>

Most people today find no joy in their busy, machine-driven lives, while gaining happiness and vitality is essential for physical health and for sustaining life. To achieve vitality, exercising\u2014and particularly participating in group physical activities such as cycling\u2014is highly effective. More importantly, cycling not only benefits the individual rider but can also contribute to a healthier, more vibrant society and cleaner air. According to research by the British Heart Foundation, cycling at least 20 miles (approximately 32 kilometers) per week reduces the risk of coronary heart disease by more than half compared to non-cyclists. Cycling at a moderate speed of 12 miles per hour (20 km\/h) on a flat road burns about 450 kilocalories per hour, creates a feeling of youthfulness, and reduces stress. Furthermore, cycling boosts the body’s metabolic rate for several hours after the activity, meaning the body continues to burn calories even after the exercise is over. Cycling is primarily an aerobic activity, and this type of exercise is beneficial for the lungs, which are responsible for delivering and supplying oxygen to the blood. Having strong heart and lungs is one of the fundamental parameters of physical health. In addition to improving physique, body shape, and increasing oxygen consumption, cycling also strengthens muscle power. Even after just a few kilometers of cycling, your muscles begin to benefit. The main muscles used during cycling are the upper thigh muscles, back muscles, and calf muscles. Other benefits of this exercise include enhancing the body’s ability to prevent lactic acid buildup, reducing body fat percentage, and decreasing the complications of type 2 diabetes. From a strength perspective, cycling is preferable to track and field sports because in cycling, you are continuously exercising against resistance. Cycling is not only an excellent sport for maintaining and improving the cardiovascular system, but contrary to what many people commonly believe, it is not harmful to the knee joints; in fact, it is one of the most beneficial exercises for the knees. If cycling is performed correctly and with proper technique, the muscular structure supporting the joints is strengthened, and the production of synovial fluid\u2014which acts like oil between the joints and prevents wear and tear\u2014also increases, thereby reducing joint pain. Exercise releases substances known as endorphins into the bloodstream. These substances create a sense of satisfaction and happiness in the individual, consequently reducing stress. Naturally, if you cycle in a pleasant and enjoyable environment, your level of satisfaction will be even higher. It should be noted that alongside the aforementioned benefits, cycling also carries potential risks, and neglecting them can endanger one’s health. However, these issues can certainly be resolved by paying careful attention to safety measures. This sport is suitable for all ages and all segments of society, both men and women. In other words, if cycling becomes widespread in society, it will be a significant step toward improving physical health and fostering vitality in the community.<\/span><\/p>

As mentioned earlier, the issue of traffic and its related problems, along with the diseases and deaths caused by air pollution, are serious and important issues in our society, and the need to find solutions for them is felt more acutely every day. Nowadays, traffic congestion is not limited to metropolitan areas alone; traffic jams during school dismissal hours, at dusk, and during consecutive multi-day holidays have spread to all cities of the province. Furthermore, the direct effects of air pollutants on the respiratory system and lungs, the causation of neurobehavioral disorders in children, cardiovascular diseases, and increased blood pressure in the elderly and heart patients are no secret to anyone. How long will closing schools and government offices remain the solution to the air pollution crisis? According to the experience and model of European countries, by promoting a culture of cycling, traffic in large cities has been streamlined and air pollution has been reduced. Meanwhile, the high number of single-occupancy vehicles, old and non-standard cars in the country’s metropolises, and the high levels of pollutant gases resulting from fuel combustion in these motor vehicles\u2014such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, along with lead and suspended particles from various industrial activities\u2014have led the government to declare one- or two-day closures of some state centers, harming the national economy (a one-day nationwide shutdown inflicts a $1.5 billion loss on the country’s gross domestic product). Using bicycles and promoting a cycling culture as the best alternative to environmentally polluting vehicles for short intra-city trips has been institutionalized in European countries for years. In recent years, the use of self-service or rental bicycles has been implemented in some European cities such as Copenhagen, Paris (with 371 kilometers of designated cycling routes), Amsterdam, and Montreal (which has 2,400 cycling paths with an investment of $134 million). In Japan, the creation of places for free bicycle delivery to citizens and the construction of bicycle parking lots began in 1973, and according to statistics, only in Beijing, the capital of China, four million bicycles are in use. In many countries, there is a combination of bicycle use and other conventional transportation systems, so that many people use bicycles to reach metro or bus stations, and upon arriving at these stations and parking their bicycles in designated parking lots adjacent to these stations, they continue their journey using public transportation. Nowadays, in addition to citizens, institutions and centers such as the police in Europe also use this vehicle to improve the urban transportation system, ease traffic flow, and reduce travel by personal cars. Economically speaking, purchasing 1,000 bicycles for public use is more cost-effective compared to purchasing a single public city bus. According to statistics, for transporting one person over one kilometer, a bus consumes about 20 times more energy and a personal car about 40 times more energy than a bicycle, and the urban access speed of a bicycle over distances of 4 to 7 kilometers is greater than that of other vehicles.<\/span><\/p>

In addition to easily navigating through heavy traffic, cycling also helps preserve the cleanliness of nature and the environment because it requires no motive energy other than muscular effort. For this reason, in many countries around the world, people have a positive view of cyclists, and bicycles hold greater value than other vehicles. Of course, this\u2014meaning the use of this vehicle and the practice of cycling\u2014requires the growth and development of a cycling culture among members of society. By summarizing the effects of cycling in resolving the crisis of air pollution, environmental issues, traffic problems, and the medical benefits of cycling, it can be stated that providing all necessary facilities to encourage people to use bicycles\u2014such as establishing free and paid bicycle stations, bicycle parking lots, intra-city and inter-city cycling paths, using bicycles in public and sports venues, using bicycles in protected areas and parks, making bicycles available to citizens in various ways, and creating a safe and respectful environment for cyclists\u2014is essential. Achieving this would reflect the extent to which the physical and mental health of individuals in a society is valued by its officials. It is worth noting that plans have been implemented in District 8 of Tehran Municipality as well as in the cities of Isfahan and Mashhad, but due to numerous unresolved issues, they have not been very successful. Nevertheless, under such circumstances, fortunately, many people still\u2014despite the many challenges facing cyclists and the lack of suitable grounds for promoting a cycling culture\u2014remain interested in this useful vehicle, and the use of bicycles for specific purposes is gradually becoming more widespread. Affordability, no need for fuel, occupying less space, easy maintenance and repair, and usability in narrow or access-restricted streets are among the most important economic and social features of bicycles. On the other hand, the lack of noise and environmental pollution has made them considerably more acceptable.<\/span><\/p>

Despite these advantages, there are many obstacles facing cyclists, including the lack of suitable paths for cyclists and their safety in the city, the absence of dedicated bicycle parking spaces or lots to ensure the security of parked bicycles, the lack of a positive and informed view toward cyclists in the city, insufficient public awareness campaigns about the benefits of cycling among citizens, a shortage of standard bicycles suited to their intended use, along with people’s lack of knowledge about different types of bicycles, and the particular challenges faced by women cyclists\u2014these are only part of the barriers to promoting a cycling culture in our country. The status and standing of cycling culture, considering its favorable role in public health, the reduction of cardiovascular diseases among citizens, and its effect on reducing social problems and issues related to vehicle congestion, improving traffic conditions, and significantly reducing air pollution, necessitates the provision of essential infrastructure through the participation, consultation, and cooperation of all cultural and executive institutions\u2014including the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, the Environmental Protection Organization, the Physical Education Organization, the Municipality and Islamic City Councils, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), the Traffic Police, the Law Enforcement Force, the Ministry of Education, and non-governmental organizations and associations such as various sports groups, and so on\u2014because taking steps toward improving public health is the duty of all responsible institutions. Presenting special plans within comprehensive programs aimed at motivating exercise and bicycle use among all members of society, and consequently ensuring public health, by the Ministry of Health in cooperation with the Physical Education Organization; producing cultural and educational programs by the IRIB; designing and creating dedicated cycling routes in cities by municipalities; providing bicycle parking spaces within schools and universities; and encouraging students to use bicycles as a clean mode of transportation (free from air and noise pollution) combined with exercise, by the Ministries of Education and Science, Research and Technology\u2014all of these will play a significant role in promoting cycling culture. In other words, the responsibility for this cultural development does not lie with just one specific body or organization; rather, all intellectual and executive factors must strive together and fulfill their duties in this important mission. It is a source of great hope that in August of this year, based on a resolution by the Cabinet of Ministers, the Physical Education Organization was tasked with developing a plan for public bicycle use in cooperation with responsible bodies, with the aim of promoting mass sports. Although the practical results of this plan have not been tangible to date.<\/span><\/p>

Today, more than 20 million people worldwide use bicycles as their daily means of transportation. However, for this purpose\u2014that is, using bicycles\u2014citizens must observe certain unwritten rules that are the duty of every citizen. That is, just as pedestrians and drivers must respect the rights of cyclists, cyclists must also not disregard their rights, so that no problems arise for either party. If motor vehicles do not watch out for the safety of cyclists, cyclists will not dare to use bicycles, and this is where the need for active traffic police involvement becomes evident. Currently, women in our society suffer from a lack of suitable dedicated sports facilities, especially for this sport, because due to a lack of cultural awareness, they face particular difficulties even when observing Islamic dress codes. Although a small number of large metropolitan parks have established cycling tracks, limited facilities, short routes, and a lack of promotion and cultural development mean that only a few cycling enthusiasts can benefit from the limited available facilities. Of course, this problem is less noticeable in the city of Astara for male cyclists\u2014though not for women\u2014due to the region’s natural topography. Nevertheless, it is expected that relevant organizations will design and construct public and general routes for this sport so that everyone can exercise in a calm and safe environment. Promoting and enriching the culture of bicycle use will greatly reduce physical, mental, and psychological harm, economic costs, traffic and transportation issues, and air pollution, and will effectively help us achieve a healthy city with clean air and a blue sky. Therefore, creating facilities for families to purchase suitable bicycles, teaching the correct use of bicycles, ensuring the safety and security of cyclists during their travels by designing and building dedicated cycling paths throughout the city, establishing enforceable laws regarding drivers’ obligation to give way to cyclists, organizing public cycling tours for all age groups, and building sports tracks in cities with special attention to women-only spaces\u2014all of these, while helping to reduce air and noise pollution, can pave the way for the growth and development of a culture of cycling as a sport and contribute to the physical and mental health of individuals in society.<\/span><\/p>

Habib Sadri Fard \u2013 Ecotourism Expert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

Society and Cycling<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

The Status of Nature Tourism in Iran<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

Iran is a vast land with astonishing nature; wherever we set foot in this country, we encounter unique and remarkable sights. However, it seems that true nature-based tourism\u2014in its proper sense\u2014is missing from our tourism landscape. From the shores of the Caspian Sea to the azure coastlines of the Persian Gulf, and from the eastern borders to the western frontiers, the entire country is covered with lush green landscapes and deserts. A land where one can simultaneously behold dense forests and dry, barren deserts. A country with over 800 kilometers of water borders in the north and 1,600 kilometers in the south\u2014all of which testify to the stunning beauty of this land. 26 wildlife sanctuaries, 495 bird species, over 7,000 plant species, approximately 325 aquatic species, with 93% of the world’s sturgeon fish reserves, and 19 natural resources museums\u2014these are only a glimpse of these wonders. Alongside these astonishing capacities, 2,000 mineral springs provide the most delightful moments for tourists\u2014a potential that, if properly attended to, could bring great profit to the country. The beautiful shores of the Caspian Sea, Lake Urmia (the largest saltwater lake in the world), Lake Hamoun (one of the sweetest lakes in the world), and having some of the best ski resorts in the world with over 7 months of snow cover are among the beauties of Iran. Although Iran ranks among the top 5 countries in the world in terms of natural attractions, our country’s name does not appear on the list of the top 100 countries in the world in terms of the number of tourists and tourism revenue. Under these circumstances, Iran’s share of tourism in the gross national product is about 0.07%, and the per capita income from tourism for each Iranian is only $2.5. Given this situation, nature tourism could come to the aid of Iran’s tourism industry and help revitalize it. At present, the nature tourism industry in Iran, like other branches of tourism, is not in a favorable condition. According to experts, nature tourism in Iran, given the country’s unique capacities, could attract millions of tourists annually and thereby lead to the prosperity of these regions. Identifying these areas, along with developing tourism facilities and infrastructure, are among the key issues that must be addressed to grow nature tourism.<\/span><\/p>

Environmental Protection: The Missing Link in Nature Tourism<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

Although nature tourism is practiced to some extent in certain parts of the country, neglecting environmental protection remains one of the major challenges of this type of tourism. Leaving all kinds of waste in beautiful nature is the result of a day of nature tourism for some of us. Discarding this waste causes serious damage to the environment\u2014an act that ultimately leads to environmental degradation. A tourism expert says in this regard: “Not every outing in nature can be considered nature tourism in its standard and scientific sense.” Unfortunately, some people who go into nature not only do nothing to protect the environment, but most of their activities actually cause destruction and harm to it. In fact, with their entry and exit from an area, they sometimes inflict irreparable damage on nature. We think that spending time in nature means taking a day off to go to a pleasant area in the plains or mountains, breaking branches and trees to make a fire and cook food, and then leaving the place with piles of rubbish and waste behind. While this is certainly not the purpose of nature tourism.<\/span><\/p>

A Tourist Paradise in the Heart of the Desert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

Many of us think that nature tourism simply means traveling to green areas; but the reality and capacity of nature tourism is not limited to touring these regions. We must examine how much the interaction of these centers with one another is effective in attracting tourists and developing tourism, and to what extent its output has influenced the economic growth of the destination. Perhaps some of us imagine that deserts and arid lands have no tourism potential, but this is not the case, and these regions are full of their own unique attractions. It is possible to create massive tourism facilities deep within the desert and turn it into a paradise for tourists\u2014a reality that is currently taking shape in some parts of the country, such as the Biabanak region. Today, in many areas of the country and across a large part of the Iranian plateau, tourism and nature tourism are a priority. Nature tourism is a general form of travel, but ecotourism is a responsible journey to various regions that leads to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of the host community. The development of this type of tourism is one of the methods of sustainable development in pristine natural and less-developed environments. Currently, there is a national structure known as the National Committee for Nature Tourism, established for policy-making, guidance, and support of the development process of this type of tourism, which is expected to become more active. The grounds for interaction between this structure and related centers must be further facilitated so that it can effectively contribute to the sustainable development of this branch of tourism. It must be examined how much the interaction of these centers with one another is effective in increasing the number of tourists and developing tourism, and to what extent its output has influenced the economic growth of the destination. Various regions of the country, including Iran’s desert areas, are full of tourist attractions. Currently, in a region called Biabanak (near Damghan), a massive tourism capacity has been created, which can be described as a paradise for tourists. If this tourism capacity in this region were to be shut down, the entire area would become useless. This tourism capacity emerged in the heart of the scorching desert, and this same development should take place in all parts of the country. The development of nature tourism is a resolve of the establishment, and the eleventh government has placed great emphasis on it, and I am optimistic about the measures taken by this administration. Nevertheless, traveling to nature requires planning and adherence to regulations. In this case, if nature tourism is organized in the form of one- or multi-day tours, it will lead to the prosperity of tourism. Providing the necessary training for environmental protection is a necessity, because it both keeps the environment safe from harm and reduces disruption to the lives of local people.<\/span><\/p>

Miyandasht Jajarm Desert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

Nature tourism, or ecotourism, is an important branch of tourism that has experienced significant growth in the global economy. However, the geographical distribution of this income is highly uneven, with 80% of employment and revenue from this industry allocated to Europe and America. Of the remaining 20%, 2.5% goes to the Middle East, and Iran’s share is 1%. This is while Iran, with its unique and attractive nature and exceptional biodiversity, ranks fifth in the world and has high potential in the nature tourism industry.<\/span><\/p>

The Importance of Deserts in Tourism<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

The silence and the night of the desert cannot be experienced anywhere else. It feels as if one reaches oneself. Do not miss autumn for desert trekking. A large part of the vast land of Iran is covered by deserts. Until a few years ago, many believed that deserts had no value and that huge sums should be spent on combating desertification to make these areas usable. But later, with the development of the tourism industry, the perception of deserts changed. Desert trekking became one of the popular branches of nature tourism, and from then on, special desert tours were held in the second half of the year when the weather turned cold. The best season for desert trekking is autumn\u2014when the weather has neither the heat of spring and summer nor the cold of winter.<\/span><\/p>

Introduction to Miyandasht Desert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

The most beautiful tableau of nature, painted by the skilled fingers of an artist on the canvas of this untouched desert, displays its art. When a person steps onto the hot heart of this delicate sandy expanse, practically no trace is left unmarked. The Miyandasht Jajarm Desert, with an area of approximately 84,435 hectares, is located about 100 kilometers from Bojnord, the provincial capital, in the southwest of this province. It hosts over 110 plant species, including tamarisk, wormwood, tamarisk, and almond, etc. Its animal diversity includes mammals such as the cheetah, gazelle, wild sheep, hyena, various wild cats, etc.; birds including the houbara bustard, sandgrouse, partridge, see-see partridge, quail, and various eagles; and reptiles including lizards, horned vipers, tortoises, and various mole snakes. The highest point above sea level is Khajeh Peak at 1,312 meters, located in the southwest of the desert, and the lowest point is near Kal-e Shur in the northwest, at about 900 meters above sea level. The minimum temperature in winter is -10\u00b0C and the maximum in summer is 45\u00b0C. The average annual rainfall is about 200 mm.<\/span><\/p>

Potentials of Miyandasht Jajarm Desert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

Given the proximity of Miyandasht Desert to the city of Senkhvast (7 km) and its closeness to power and water transmission lines, with investment and the establishment of infrastructure for tourists, it could become a tourism hub in the country, especially since it is located about 100 km from Bojnord, the provincial center. In organizing 2- or 3-day tours, tourists could visit numerous habitats, such as viewing the Asiatic cheetah, gazelles, and other local wildlife, the Miyandasht and Sorkh Cheshmeh environmental guard stations, numerous historical sites like the Qoli Rabat historical fortress, and the pristine and beautiful nature of Miyandasht Desert, including the Kal-e Shur salt flat with its beautiful salt polygons, and observing the mass flight of migratory birds. Furthermore, in Miyandasht Desert, with investment, the following services could be offered: camel riding, cycling, motorcycling, car riding, paragliding, local and traditional Iranian music performances, playing desert instruments, walking barefoot in the desert, which creates a delightful dreamlike experience. Stargazing on desert nights is also one of the most important attractions of Miyandasht Desert.<\/span><\/p>

Access Routes to Miyandasht Jajarm Desert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

  1. Bojnord \u2013 Miyandasht: about 100 km<\/span><\/p><\/li>

  2. Senkhvast \u2013 Miyandasht: 7 km<\/span><\/p><\/li>

  3. Jajarm \u2013 Miyandasht (via the railway route): about 15 km<\/span><\/p><\/li>

  4. Esfarayen \u2013 Miyandasht: about 55 km<\/span><\/p><\/li><\/ol>

    The presence of the Asiatic cheetah as a rare phenomenon has brought national and international fame to North Khorasan. In fact, the presence of the cheetah in Hesar is very significant as a tourist destination for wildlife enthusiasts. However, if the transfer of this cheetah is, from an expert perspective, the best possible way to preserve wildlife, and if the concerns of environmentalists are reduced, it would be considered a praiseworthy action.<\/span><\/p>

    Tourism Governance in the Hands of the Local Community<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    Ecotourism lodgings are one of the main forms of tourism businesses in indigenous communities. In addition to creating jobs and generating financial circulation in villages and non-urban areas, they can contribute to sustainable development. By utilizing local human resources, these lodgings can prevent migration from villages and small towns to metropolises and also help distribute wealth.<\/span><\/p>

    The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) each year welcomes World Tourism Day with a special theme, and all member countries focus their celebrations for this day around that theme. On the other hand, throughout the year, the proposed theme becomes the main focus of the activities of tourism organizations and ministries in various countries.<\/span><\/p>

    In the past year, the central theme was “Tourism and Water”\u2014a topic that has become a fundamental crisis these days. This year, the theme “Tourism and the Development of Indigenous Communities” has been highlighted; a focus that, for countries like Iran with its rich cultural diversity in villages and small towns, can be utilized in the best possible way. In this field, especially in recent years, valuable actions have been taken by local and indigenous people in Iran, and there are experts who strive to develop this in rural and nomadic areas. Dr. Taghi Farvar, President of the Global Consortium of Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCA), is one such individual with a long history of working with indigenous and local communities in Iran. Over his 45 years of professional activity, he has worked with organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). He is currently the President of the ICCA Consortium, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Paul K. Feyerabend Foundation in Switzerland, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Centre for Sustainable Development and Environment (CENESTA) in Iran. Since part of Dr. Farvar’s projects in the field of tourism on various continents has been as a facilitator and senior consultant, he speaks about standard ecotourism practices in the world and compares them with Iran.<\/span><\/p>

    He states: “There are generally two models of tourism systems based on ecotourism. In the first model, private investors, the government, NGOs, and others enter this field, and in the second model, the indigenous community takes over the management of tourism in their region.” He adds: “In Iran, we think the indigenous community lacks the necessary awareness and must be managed from outside; while the indigenous community can organize tourism in its region and be its own boss.” Farvar continues: “In some cases, we see the private sector entering an indigenous community and trying to carry out valuable activities in the tourism sector, also benefiting from the indigenous community. But generally, what is observed is that the local community is mostly used as service staff, not as the owner. In fact, in this case, the owner is an outsider who also gains more profit.” The member of the Board of Trustees of the Paul K. Feyerabend Foundation in Switzerland points out: “In this situation, only a few people in the local community benefit as tourist guides, food providers, or transporters, but control and management of tourism are not in their hands, and they are somewhat subordinate to external factors and individuals.” Stating that this practice is not acceptable globally in responsible tourism, fair tourism, or community-based tourism, he says: “If you give any opportunity to outsiders or even to a part of the indigenous community, you have deprived the rest of the community of this benefit, and they will inevitably play a secondary role. This is while the local community has shown in recent years that it is capable of managing tourism in its region.”<\/span><\/p>

    Empowering the Indigenous Community<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    In response to the question of what actions the local community can take for marketing, especially at the global level, the President of the ICCA Consortium says: “When an indigenous community lacks the ability to manage a sector, for example, it cannot attract international tourists, it entrusts this task to a tour operator or domestic and foreign agencies. But in a 5- or 10-year perspective, the indigenous community should be able to develop sections specialized in bringing in tourists and acquire skills such as proficiency in English and managing tourism sites.” Criticizing the involvement of non-locals in managing tourism in regions, he adds: “The main slogan in indigenous communities around the world today is that personal and private interests should be within the framework of collective interests, and management should be in the hands of local people. For example, in a country like Namibia, where nature tourism and participatory conservation have been initiated by the indigenous community, you see that in some cases where the community could not carry out the activity, they have partnered with the private sector, and each handles part of the tourism industry activities. But this does not mean reducing the role of local people to mere service providers.” What emerges from Dr. Farvar’s statements is an emphasis on a type of tourism in which the people of a region can benefit from the advantages of the tourism industry through participation, and each plays a role as a cog in the machinery of this industry.<\/span><\/p>

    The Policy Framework Governing Ecotourism<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    One of the requirements for implementing ecotourism in many countries is the existence of a legal framework tailored to the needs of stakeholders and their activities. In this regard, many countries have developed strategies and policies that define how stakeholders participate in local communities, the responsibilities of various stakeholders, including government institutions, to minimize environmental and cultural damage, and so on. These policies are mainly based on public-private partnership. Of course, in this process, the principles governing ecotourism must also be considered\u2014principles that should serve as a guiding light for policy-making on ecotourism.<\/span><\/p>

    Definition of Ecotourism<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    Ecotourism is a form of sustainable tourism that, with its help, the natural and cultural heritage of the region\u2014including the participation of the local community, the management of natural resources, and the culture and customs of the area\u2014are improved and strengthened, along with the economic benefits derived from tourism for the enrichment of local communities and the greater satisfaction of tourists. In short, ecotourism refers to responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people. Since ecotourism has not yet been fully embraced by tourism industry stakeholders, many governments and businesses promote ecotourism without being aware of its fundamental principles. The establishment of nationally and internationally acceptable principles and guidelines began with slow steps from the 1990s onward. The main reason for this slow progress is the presence of stakeholders from different regions with diverse backgrounds involved in this process. Each region affected by ecotourism must also develop its own specific principles and guidelines. The most important internationally accepted principles for promoting and developing ecotourism are as follows:<\/span><\/p>

    \u2022 Minimizing negative external impacts on nature and local culture.<\/span>
    \u2022 Educating tourists about the importance of environmental protection.<\/span>
    \u2022 Emphasizing responsible business practices that cooperate with local authorities and people to meet the needs of the local community and the benefits of environmental conservation.<\/span>
    \u2022 Directly rewarding conservation and the management of natural and protected areas.<\/span>
    \u2022 Maximizing economic benefits for the host country, local communities, and businesses, especially for local people living in those areas.<\/span>
    \u2022 Ensuring that tourism development does not exceed the social and environmental limits determined by researchers in collaboration with local communities.<\/span><\/p>

    The Necessity of Policy-Making for Ecotourism<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    Ecotourism, like other sectors of tourism, requires government attention and policy-making. The government must also clarify the responsibilities and duties of the involved institutions so that ambiguity and unclear responsibilities do not harm local communities and natural resources. The following requirements seem to be necessary for policymakers to consider:<\/span><\/p>

    a) Coordinating the interests and actions of different stakeholders involved in ecotourism.<\/span>
    b) Participation and acknowledgment of the culture of local communities in the development of ecotourism products, as well as determining the form of organization and systematic management of policies related to planning and promotion.<\/span>
    c) Systematic regulation based on cross-sectoral and multidisciplinary participation in development programs of the ecotourism sector; defining criteria for the protection of natural areas, as well as defining models for local community participation in the management and implementation of ecotourism-related activities, the levels of responsibility of individuals and legal entities, the public and private sectors, and the level of participation of NGOs.<\/span>
    d) Promoting the systematic regulation of ethical standards and guidelines related to the development of ecotourism activities.<\/span>
    e) Promoting certification and accreditation of national ecotourism stakeholders based on commitment to conservation and social responsibility.<\/span>
    f) Ensuring the protection of natural resources through the implementation of policies and mechanisms related to ecotourism. These mechanisms should be of fundamental importance for the survival of local communities and the sustainability of ecotourism-related activities.<\/span>
    g) Encouraging the reinvestment of economic resources derived from ecotourism in the management and control of natural areas, as well as improving the quality of life of local communities; strengthening local communities to create tools for managing natural resources in ecotourism; promoting educational activities focused on members of local communities who develop activities aligned with ecotourism. In this process, knowledge exchange between local communities and other stakeholders should be established.<\/span><\/p>

    Ecotourism: The Link Between Economy and Nature<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    Ecotourism is one of the dynamic and vibrant industries in the economic, political, social, and cultural arenas of the world. Ecotourism activities include hiking, crossing rushing rivers, traveling to summer and forested regions, traveling to villages and farms to enjoy nature and learn about cultures, mountaineering, visiting natural caves, studying flora and fauna, watching animals and birds, and learning about the natural environment. Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.<\/span><\/p>

    The term ecotourism always carries a value-laden meaning, and those who choose such trips are generally ethical people who try to benefit the environment and the host community during their travels. In fact, in ecotourism trips, individuals prepare themselves for a proper presence in nature.<\/span><\/p>

    When the local community is aware of the true values of its region’s nature, and when planning for that region is carried out wisely and with consideration of the demands of all stakeholders, including the host community, certainly the local people will not only be indifferent to the natural values of their region but will also strive to protect it.<\/span><\/p>

    A Glance at Ecotourism<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

    Nature tourism trips have their own culture, principles, and specific conditions. Such trips are very, very different from cultural trips such as visiting a historical city, palace, museum, or national park, and staying in a hotel or guesthouse with all the amenities within the city. A nature tourism trip begins at home, when the traveler is selecting the necessary equipment for the journey. We can call their backpack an ecotourism or nature tourism backpack. Perhaps this may seem meaningless or unimportant to you, but the more you think or read about it, the more you will realize its complexity and importance.<\/span><\/p>

    Keep in mind that in choosing the equipment needed for the trip, your taste, purpose, destination weather conditions, trip length, age and gender, type of travel, mode of transportation, items that bring you more comfort during the trip, and the socio-cultural conditions of the host community all influence the contents of your backpack.<\/span><\/p>

    1. The first and most important recommendation is to keep your backpack light. It is obvious that the lighter you travel, the less energy you will expend on transport. Traveling light also allows you to use public transportation. Third, carrying fewer and unnecessary items reduces the feeling of inferiority or economic weakness in the host community.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    2. Wear simple, non-flashy, quick-drying, long-sleeved clothes in colors common in nature that do not attract excessive attention from locals. Do not dress in a way that draws locals toward you and causes you trouble.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    3. Choose your clothes according to the season in which you are traveling. Always carry extra socks. Nevertheless, do not carry too many clothes.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    4. By leaving empty space in your backpack and buying from local people on your way back, you help and support the local economy.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    5. Another very important point is to complete your studies about your destination before starting the trip. Instead of taking heavy guidebooks, take your own notes. Be careful not to buy old guidebooks; otherwise, you will face many problems at your destination.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    6. Use relevant books to learn practical phrases from locals, such as hello, thank you, goodbye, etc.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    7. Use lightweight covers and sheets. Put a cloth bag in your backpack to separate clean and dirty clothes.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    8. If you need to use electricity at your destination, try to use it minimally.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    9. Be sure to bring insect repellent, sunscreen made from natural ingredients, a first aid kit, sunglasses, a cup, a multi-purpose pocket knife (usually with a spoon and fork), a toothbrush, a flashlight, a sun hat, and hand sanitizer for use after using the toilet.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    10. If there is no purified water available, especially in areas where malaria is common, bring a small electric kettle. (Of course, do not drink just any water and pay attention to warning signs.)<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    11. Instead of bringing audio devices and using headphones, listen to the pleasant sounds of the nature you are visiting, and try to talk with local people.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

    12. If you have acquaintances at your destination or plan to hire a local guide, it is better to bring them a photo or a small gift from your hometown.<\/span><\/p><\/li><\/ol>

      Tips for Going into Nature<\/span><\/strong><\/p>

      1. Always carry a pencil and a small notebook instead of a laptop, etc.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      2. Bring an inexpensive alarm clock to wake up on time for your appointments.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      3. Carry photocopies of your travel documents so that if the originals are lost, these copies can help you.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      4. Bring rechargeable batteries if you have electrical devices. Make sure you have enough space to bring back your waste, especially plastics and batteries, because ecotourism areas usually do not have recycling facilities for these materials.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      5. Buy local handicrafts as gifts for your friends to support the local economy and keep the memory of your trip alive.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      6. It is better to carry your own backpack and not use local people for this task. Regarding the material of the backpack or travel bag, it is recommended that if you do not have a suitable backpack or your old ones are no longer usable, look for backpacks and bags whose main materials are recyclable.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      7. Usually, the materials used in backpacks are not fully listed on their labels. However, asking about this feature will make the seller think about requesting more complete information from manufacturers about the recyclability of backpack or bag materials in the future, and communicate this market need to them.<\/span><\/p><\/li>

      8. Searching the internet can help you find recyclable backpacks and bags. Perhaps sellers of this type of backpack or bag usually do not have complete information in this regard. Keep in mind that if you already have a backpack, there is no need to buy a new one, because consuming any extra item means using more of the earth’s resources, and consumerism is in conflict with environmental protection.<\/span><\/p><\/li><\/ol>

        Habib Sadri Fard \u2013 Ecotourism Expert<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

        Headquarters organizational structure Cycling and health ((Today, cycling is not just fun, it is a solution to a problem)) In proportion to the growth of technology, human muscular activity has decreased, and urban, machine-driven life has caused less attention to be paid to exercise and physical activity among people. The car takes over all physical […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-11154","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/11154","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11154"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/11154\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11534,"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/11154\/revisions\/11534"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nkchto.ir\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11154"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}