Iran is intensifying efforts in plant conservation to protect native and endemic species. Somayeh Rafiei, head of the parliament’s environment fraction, emphasized the importance of preserving plant diversity. In addition, she urged implementing national projects focused on ecosystem protection.
Rafiei noted that the Zagros forests in western Iran rank among the world’s top 20 biodiversity hotspots. Moreover, she pointed out that Iran hosts nine of the eleven global ecosystems, which supports its rich flora and fauna. In fact, the country has over 8,500 plant species, far exceeding Europe’s 5,000 species.
She stressed the urgency of developing a gene bank and genome mapping for endangered plants. Furthermore, Rafiei called for supporting research on medicinal and drought-resistant species. These plants, she explained, play a key role in ensuring national food security.
Experts highlight that plants form the foundation of life on Earth. They produce energy from sunlight and provide food, medicine, and raw materials. In addition, forests, grasslands, and peatlands act as carbon sinks, absorbing billions of tons of carbon dioxide annually. As a result, healthy vegetation helps mitigate climate change and improves air quality.
Plants also protect water resources. By filtering pollutants, they reduce waterborne diseases and soil contamination. Moreover, they prevent erosion, support beneficial insects, and maintain ecosystem balance. Consequently, losing plant diversity threatens environmental stability and human livelihoods.
Iran’s plant diversity is unique in West Asia. In fact, the country ranks second after Turkey in biodiversity. Of its flora, about 1,800 species are endemic, meaning they exist only in specific regions. In addition, Iran produces more than 300 medicines derived from 1,200 plant species. Domestic companies supply over 4,400 natural products and 2,000 traditional products.
However, climate change and overharvesting have caused severe damage to plant populations. Drought, in particular, reduces plant resistance to pests and extreme temperatures. Therefore, endemic species remain highly vulnerable. Furthermore, invasive species often replace native plants if ecosystems degrade, creating additional challenges.
To address these threats, Rafiei and environmental officials recommend sustainable resource management and ecosystem protection. In addition, they advocate public awareness campaigns to encourage citizen participation. International cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is also critical, as global efforts influence local plant conservation outcomes.
With only seven percent of its land covered by forests, Iran launched the “Green Iran, Strong Iran” campaign. The program plans to plant one billion saplings over four years. Consequently, increasing green spaces will enhance carbon absorption and strengthen climate resilience. Tree planting offers a low-cost solution to climate change that all citizens can support.
Plant conservation, experts emphasize, safeguards biodiversity, strengthens rural economies, and enhances environmental resilience. Therefore, prioritizing native and endemic species is essential for protecting Iran’s natural heritage for future generations.