Examination of desert Potentials and Sustainable Development (Case Study: Rigan County)

Different human communities have been settled in the desert throughout history and they have tried to adapt to the environment. Today, important part of the treasures of nature and culture of the world are embedded in deserts legacy. Currently, more than 500 million people, or 8% of the world s population live in the desert. As for this role, it is enough to say that three major religions which have holy books i.e. Buddhism, Christianity and Islam have emerged from the deserts. The city of Rigan has the potential to become one of the major tourist destinations in Iran and in the region due to the natural attractions and the largest natural resources and wildlife it has. This research aims to study examination and predict needs, address deficiencies and develop ecosystems that are associated with planning to lead to sustainable development of this area. Therefore, with regard to field surveys and descriptive-analytical methods, one can conclude that despite the high potential of the desert, exploitation of the ecotourism industry in the city is at a low level. Therefore, for the development of ecotourism and to use of the resulting revenues and the city s development as one of the ecotourism pillars of Iran, an integrated management based on environmental, social and economic elements is required.

Keywords:

ecotourism , ecosystem , desert , sustainable development , Rigan , ecological