An Investigation of Objectives and Problems of Shiraz Green Belt

Green belt is defined as a narrow green area surrounding an urban area. Shiraz green belt has been developed through 9 projects with a variety of purposes since 2005. The development of green belt is being considered in a number of Iranian cities, and therefore, investigation of Shiraz green belt’s purposes and challenges could contribute to an appropriate planning by decision makers. The main purpose of this study was to study the objectives and problems faced by Shiraz green belt. Data were gathered through indepth interview with 5 project managers and the person in charge of the whole project, documents provided by Shiraz Organization of Parks and Green Areas, and direct observations. Data gathered through interviews were analyzed through coding and classification. The main objectives of the project were associated with environmental purpose, and economic and social purposes placed in lower priorities. Preventing urban area extension, improve air quality within urban area, conservation of resources, greening urban area, provision of employment opportunities and developing recreation areas were reported by the respondents as the objectives. Most of the problems stated by the interviewees were related to planning and environmental issues, followed by cultural, legal and technical issues. Inappropriate planning, drought and lack of access to water, and inadequate environmental knowledge and awareness among citizens were reported as the main problems, followed by, budgeting difficulties and soil related issue