Iran and the Scourge of Micro-Dust
In recent months, air pollution and dust storms in various regions of Iran have intensified, affecting provinces such as Sistan and Baluchestan, Kerman, Khuzestan, and Isfahan. On certain days, the air quality index reached very unhealthy and dangerous levels, prompting multiple warnings from the Meteorological Organization regarding dust storms. The persistence of these conditions threatens the health of citizens, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Based on reports and warnings from the Meteorological Organization, the air pollution and dust crisis persisted across wide areas of the country from May to August 2026.
Khuzestan, Isfahan, Lorestan, Qom, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Kurdistan, Ilam, and Kermanshah were among the provinces repeatedly affected by this phenomenon. In subsequent months, the scope of this crisis expanded to provinces such as Kerman, Yazd, Semnan, Tehran, Markazi, Sistan and Baluchestan, South Khorasan, Razavi Khorasan, Hormozgan, Fars, Hamadan, Alborz, Qazvin, and Bushehr. In Mordad [August], the Meteorological Organization issued warnings for 25 provinces regarding strong winds, dust storms, and reduced air quality.
A combination of dust arising from drought, strong regional winds, and industrial activities has been the main driver of increased air pollution during this period.
Reducing industrial pollutant emissions, managing dust storm hotspots, developing green spaces, and strictly enforcing environmental laws can help improve air quality.
According to published statistics, in just one week in Azar 1404 [November–December 2025], over 170,000 emergency medical visits related to cardiovascular and respiratory problems caused by air pollution were recorded across the country.
Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran:
-
Article 50: Considers environmental protection a public duty and prohibits any economic or other activity that causes irreparable pollution. This principle provides the legal basis for confronting polluters and obligates the government to safeguard environmental health.
Conventions and International Documents:
-
Stockholm Declaration (1972): Emphasizes the human right to a healthy environment.
-
Rio Declaration (1992): Sustainable development and the responsibility of states to prevent environmental damage.
-
Paris Agreement (2015): Reducing emissions and combating climate change.
-
Convention to Combat Desertification: Related to controlling dust and micro-dust storms (important for Iran).
-
Basel Convention: Control of transboundary movements of hazardous wastes and their disposal.
Defense of Human Rights Association in Iran
Defense of Environment Committee
Translated by Alireza Jahan Bin
