Evaluation of Environmental Indicators in the Urban Development of Desert and Desert Areas

Abstract

The present study aims to assess environmental indicators in urban planning of desert and arid regions. The research employs a descriptive-analytical method and adopts an applied approach. The spatial scope of the research covers the cities of Semnan province, and the temporal scope is 12 months. To carry out the research, 4 dimensions (health, economic, socio-cultural, physical-environmental) and 24 livability indicators were defined. The collected data from questionnaires were then analyzed using the applied model. The questionnaires were distributed among the cities of the province based on the population of each city, and the Cochran formula was used as an appropriate method for estimating the sample size. The confidence coefficient of 75% was the basis for the authors' calculations. The research sample size consists of two groups: urban experts (30 samples) and citizens of the regions (242 samples). Based on the analysis and research findings, Semnan City has the most suitable environmental conditions in terms of environmental health, energy and environmental resources, and services. However, it has the most unfavorable conditions in terms of green space and vegetation cover, and social environment. Additionally, Semnan city has the most unfavorable conditions in components related to access to sports facilities and population density in desert areas. However, it has the most favorable conditions in components related to access to gas, water, and electricity, the situation of waste collection and disposal, adequate rainfall and high-quality surface and groundwater, access to tourism capacity and natural values, and the quantitative and qualitative levels of transportation and communication.