Investigating the Sustainability Status of the Malekshahi Watershed based on Socio-Economic Criteria

Development and progress have consistently been central concerns for policymakers and planners. A thorough understanding and analysis of regional conditions—across environmental, economic, social, and cultural dimensions—constitutes the first step in the regional development planning process. This study aims to evaluate the sustainability of the socio-economic environment in the Malekshahi watershed, applying the monitoring and evaluation framework established for national natural resource management plans. The assessment was conducted using nine criteria: population dynamics, poverty and livelihood conditions, education and skills, nutrition and food security, health and hygiene, housing and public services, land-use change, technology and productivity, and institutional organization and development. Each criterion was measured through related sub-indicators and scored accordingly. The results indicate that the socio-economic sector of the Malekshahi watershed achieved a sustainability score of 19.2, reflecting a favorable status. Attaining sustainable development—recognized as the ultimate goal of development programs—requires the design and implementation of comprehensive, effective plans capable of addressing the shortcomings of previous initiatives. In this context, managers and policymakers across sectors play a pivotal role in enhancing key development indicators by employing scientific approaches, making evidence-based decisions, and adopting effective strategies. Consequently, intersectoral collaboration, efficient resource management, and policies grounded in equity and sustainability emerge as essential drivers for advancing human development and ensuring the sustainable progress of societies.
 
Extended Abstract
1-Introduction
Development and advancement have long been central concerns for policymakers, planners, and decision-makers in the field of resource management. Achieving sustainable development requires a holistic perspective that integrates human, social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Within this framework, assessing sustainability across different regions—particularly watersheds, which play a critical role in shaping ecosystems and supporting local communities—becomes especially important. A systematic understanding and analysis of regional conditions through economic, social, and environmental indicators provides the foundation for more precise planning and coherent policymaking. The Malekshahi watershed, recognized as one of the country’s significant watersheds, has undergone notable changes in demographic structure, livelihood conditions, and patterns of natural resource utilization in recent years. These transformations underscore the necessity of evaluating its sustainability. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to assess the sustainability status of the Malekshahi watershed, with a particular focus on socio-economic criteria.
 
2-Materials and Methods
In this study, the monitoring and evaluation guideline for natural resource management projects in Iran was adopted as the assessment framework. This guideline is structured around an indicator-driven, multidimensional approach that employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators to evaluate and measure sustainability at different levels. Such an approach not only facilitates the analysis of social, economic, and institutional structures but also allows for adaptation to the unique geographical characteristics of each region, thereby serving as an effective tool for monitoring and analyzing development trends. For the present evaluation, nine main criteria were applied: (1) population change and dynamics, (2) poverty and livelihood conditions, (3) education and skills, (4) nutrition and food security, (5) health and sanitation, (6) housing and public services, (7) land-use change, (8) technology and productivity, and (9) institutional organization and development. Each criterion was further defined through related sub-indicators, which were systematically scored. Data collection was conducted using official statistical sources, local reports, field observations, and interviews with local stakeholders. The resulting scores were aggregated, and the arithmetic mean was calculated to determine the final socio-economic sustainability value of the Malekshahi watershed.
 
3- Results and Discussion
Based on the results, the scores for the assessed criteria were as follows: population change and transformation received 12 out of 21; poverty and livelihood, 21 out of 33; education and skills, 8 out of 9; nutrition and food security, 6 out of 12; health and hygiene, 12 out of 12; housing and public services, 15 out of 18; land-use change, 12 out of 18; technology and productivity, 20 out of 24; and institutional organization and development, 8 out of 9. The overall assessment indicated that the socio-economic sustainability of the Malekshahi watershed achieved a final score of 2.19 out of 3, reflecting a relatively favorable status. Criteria such as education and skills, health and hygiene, and institutional organization and development received comparatively higher scores. This outcome highlights the effective role of local training initiatives and the contributions of both governmental and non-governmental organizations in improving regional conditions. In contrast, poverty and livelihood, along with nutrition and food security, scored lower, pointing to the persistence of livelihood challenges and nutritional deficiencies in the area. The analysis suggests that, while certain development infrastructures have improved, economic inequalities and limited access to sustainable livelihood resources remain pressing issues. Land-use change, driven by demographic and economic pressures, has also been observed in specific areas, underscoring the need for planned interventions to ensure effective land management. In this context, enhancing resource productivity, expanding the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, and empowering local communities emerge as key strategies for strengthening sustainability indicators.
 
4- Conclusion
The findings of this study reveal that the socio-economic sustainability status of the Malekshahi watershed is relatively favorable. Nevertheless, persistent challenges—including the lack of sustainable livelihoods, food insecurity, and undesirable land-use changes—continue to pose significant threats to sustainable development in the region. Addressing these challenges requires policymaking and planning that are firmly grounded in local and regional capacities, with particular emphasis on strengthening social infrastructure, promoting equity, reducing economic disparities, and enhancing resource productivity. Active participation of local communities, coupled with the integration of indigenous knowledge and scientific evidence, can play a decisive role in shaping effective decisions and implementing development programs. Equally important is the establishment of institutional coordination, the application of integrated natural resource management, and the design of equity-oriented policies, all of which are essential for advancing human, economic, and social development in the region. Ultimately, achieving sustainability in the Malekshahi watershed demands a multidimensional, participatory, and evidence-based approach that bridges local knowledge with scientific insights and ensures equitable resource management for long-term progress.