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Volume 39, Issue 4 (2024)
GeoRes 2024, 39(4): 399-407 |
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Received: 2024/11/14 | Accepted: 2024/12/13 | Published: 2024/12/20
Received: 2024/11/14 | Accepted: 2024/12/13 | Published: 2024/12/20
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Fakhari F, Motevali S, Azimi Amoli J, Janbaz Ghobadi G. Urban Riverbank Land Use Management for Sustainable Tourism Development in Rivers of Noor City. GeoRes 2024; 39 (4) :399-407
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1- Department of Geography & Urban Planning, Noor Branch, Islamic Azad University, Noor, Iran
2- Department of Geography, Noor Branch, Islamic Azad University, Noor, Iran
2- Department of Geography, Noor Branch, Islamic Azad University, Noor, Iran
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Background
In many cities across Iran, urban rivers are perceived as threats to the city rather than being recognized as valuable natural and social assets. Consequently, they are controlled through structural interventions. This neglect leads to the degradation of urban environmental quality, the emergence of ecological problems, and the loss of recreational and tourism potentials.
Previous Studies
In most Iranian cities, rivers are managed through measures such as wall construction and concrete lining, rather than being regarded as natural and social opportunities. As a result, they often turn into abandoned and polluted spaces that contribute to environmental, social, and economic issues [Hatami & Zakerhaghighi, 2017]. In contrast, in many parts of the world, riverbanks are recognized as dynamic public spaces and places for social interaction and mental relaxation [Khoshghadam & Razaghi Asl, 2017]. Furthermore, studies on sustainable tourism highlight the importance of integrating environmental principles, community participation, and the sustainable use of natural resources [Kiani Salmi & Afzali, 2020]. From an ecological perspective, with the growth of urbanization and increased pressure on natural resources, attention to the concept of urban ecological networks has been emphasized as a strategy for preserving biodiversity, reducing the fragmentation of natural habitats, and enhancing the ecological functions of urban spaces [Saberi Nahrafrouzani & Mansouri, 2021; Hemmati & Amiri, 2016; Ebrahimi Dehkordi, 2020]. These approaches not only improve the aesthetic qualities of urban spaces but also pave the way for achieving sustainable development [Daneshpour & Parevar, 2014; Divsalar et al., 2016].
Aim(s)
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of riverfront land use management criteria in the city of Nour in the year 2024.
Research Type
This research was of a descriptive-analytical nature, and in order to achieve the main objective of the study, statistical methods were employed to examine and evaluate the collected data. This quantitative approach enabled the researcher to assess and analyze the effects of various riverfront land use management criteria with greater precision.
Research Society, Place, and Time
The statistical population of this study consisted of citizens and experts in the fields of urban management and tourism in the city of Nour in the year 2024.
Sampling Method and Number
In this study, the statistical population included citizens and experts in the fields of urban management and tourism in the city of Nour. The sampling method used was simple random sampling, selected to ensure accurate representation of the entire population. The sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula, resulting in the selection of 379 individuals as the study sample. Additionally, to assess the validity of the questionnaire, purposive sampling was employed to select 12 specialists and academics in relevant fields.
Used Devices & Materials
Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire designed based on the parameters and indicators identified in the theoretical framework and literature review. The questionnaire included sections for evaluating criteria such as recreational facilities, infrastructure, economic aspects, environmental factors, legal support, security, and public participation. A five-point Likert scale was used to measure respondents’ opinions. For data analysis, SPSS software version 24 was utilized, and statistical tests such as one-sample t-test and Friedman test were employed. Additionally, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated to assess the reliability of the data collection instrument.
Findings by Text
The criteria of "recreational and welfare facilities," "economic aspects," "environmental factors," "institutional and legal support," and "public participation" had mean values lower than the theoretical median (equal to 3), and the one-sample t-test indicated a statistically significant weakness in these areas (Table 1). In contrast, the criteria of "physical structure and infrastructure" and "security and protection" had mean values above the theoretical average and were evaluated as statistically significant and positive, suggesting their constructive role in promoting sustainable tourism development (Table 1, Figure 1).
Table 1. Impact of Riverfront Land Use Management Criteria in Nour City on Sustainable Tourism Development
Figure 1. The Impact of Riverfront Land Use Management in Nour City on Sustainable Tourism Development
Table 2 reiterated the average values of the criteria, again showing that physical and security-related aspects were in a relatively better condition compared to other dimensions. Overall, the total mean score for the parameter "land use management" was 2.808, which was below the theoretical threshold, indicating that the current state of riverfront land uses in the city of Nour was considered unfavorable for sustainable tourism development.
Table 2. Status of Riverfront Land Uses in Nour City for Sustainable Tourism Development
According to the Friedman test, the economic criterion was ranked as the highest priority in land use management, followed by the physical criterion.
The specific effects of two key interventions of "development of recreational and sports land uses" and "construction and widening of streets" were analyzed (Table 3). "Physical structure and infrastructure," with a mean of 3.106 and a high level of significance, had a positive impact on sustainable tourism development. In contrast, "recreational and welfare facilities," with a mean of 2.615 and a negative t-value, reflected a weaker status.
Table 3. Impact of the Creation and Development of Recreational and Sports Land Uses, and the Construction and Widening of Riverfront Streets on Riverfront Land Use Management in Nour City for Sustainable Tourism Development
Finally, a conceptual model for riverfront land use management aimed at sustainable tourism development was prepared (Figure 2). This model encompasses natural, economic, socio-cultural, and managerial dimensions and emphasizes the integration of economic utilization with the preservation of natural resources and local community participation.
Figure 2) Conceptual modeling of riverbank land-use organization in the city of Nour for sustainable tourism development
Main Comparisons to Similar Studies
In comparison with previous studies, the findings of this research align with the studies by Abuharris & Ruddock (2005) and Keshvarparast & Parsaee (2015), indicating that weaknesses in institutional infrastructure, the environment, and public participation are significant barriers to sustainable tourism development. Similarly, GSTC (2019) and Jahantighmand et al. (2023) emphasize the importance of strong infrastructure, security, and environmental awareness prior to land re-use. Moreover, the alignment of the results of this study with the research of Khan et al. (2020), Vasilakakis et al. (2023), and Kameri-Mbote et al. (2021) shows that economic and physical criteria are two main components in sustainable tourism development. International studies such as UN Tourism (2023) and Farhadi Uonaki & Khoshkhoo (2022) also emphasize the need for a balanced approach between economic, social, and environmental dimensions, a recommendation that this study also suggests for the city of Nour. This alignment indicates that the findings of the present research are consistent with global principles of sustainable tourism development.
Suggestions
Future research on the management of urban riverbank land uses could focus on topics such as environmental and natural resource conservation, enhancing the tourist experience, strengthening local economic development, preserving indigenous culture and heritage, and assessing social and cultural impacts. These studies are suggested with the aim of providing solutions for sustainable tourism development, increasing tourist satisfaction, creating job opportunities, reducing poverty, and preserving the cultural identity of riverine areas.
Conclusion
The land use of urban riverbanks in the city of Nour has significant weaknesses in terms of recreational and economic facilities, environmental sustainability, institutional support, and public participation, all of which have been evaluated as below the desired level. In contrast, infrastructure and security measures have been effective and have played a positive role in the development of sustainable tourism.
Acknowledgments: Nothing to declare.
Ethical Permission: Nothing to declare.
Conflict of Interest: This article is derived from the first author's dissertation. There is no conflict of interest regarding the writing and publication of this article.
Author Contributions: Fakhari F (First Author), Introduction Writer/Discussion Writer/Methodologist/Statistical analyst (40%); Motevali S (Second Author), Introduction writer/Discussion Writer (20%); Azimi Amoli J (Third Author), Introduction Writer/Discussion Writer (20%); Janbaz Ghobadi Gh (Fourth Author), Introduction Writer/Discussion Writer (20%)
Funding: Nothing to declare.
In many cities across Iran, urban rivers are perceived as threats to the city rather than being recognized as valuable natural and social assets. Consequently, they are controlled through structural interventions. This neglect leads to the degradation of urban environmental quality, the emergence of ecological problems, and the loss of recreational and tourism potentials.
Previous Studies
In most Iranian cities, rivers are managed through measures such as wall construction and concrete lining, rather than being regarded as natural and social opportunities. As a result, they often turn into abandoned and polluted spaces that contribute to environmental, social, and economic issues [Hatami & Zakerhaghighi, 2017]. In contrast, in many parts of the world, riverbanks are recognized as dynamic public spaces and places for social interaction and mental relaxation [Khoshghadam & Razaghi Asl, 2017]. Furthermore, studies on sustainable tourism highlight the importance of integrating environmental principles, community participation, and the sustainable use of natural resources [Kiani Salmi & Afzali, 2020]. From an ecological perspective, with the growth of urbanization and increased pressure on natural resources, attention to the concept of urban ecological networks has been emphasized as a strategy for preserving biodiversity, reducing the fragmentation of natural habitats, and enhancing the ecological functions of urban spaces [Saberi Nahrafrouzani & Mansouri, 2021; Hemmati & Amiri, 2016; Ebrahimi Dehkordi, 2020]. These approaches not only improve the aesthetic qualities of urban spaces but also pave the way for achieving sustainable development [Daneshpour & Parevar, 2014; Divsalar et al., 2016].
Aim(s)
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of riverfront land use management criteria in the city of Nour in the year 2024.
Research Type
This research was of a descriptive-analytical nature, and in order to achieve the main objective of the study, statistical methods were employed to examine and evaluate the collected data. This quantitative approach enabled the researcher to assess and analyze the effects of various riverfront land use management criteria with greater precision.
Research Society, Place, and Time
The statistical population of this study consisted of citizens and experts in the fields of urban management and tourism in the city of Nour in the year 2024.
Sampling Method and Number
In this study, the statistical population included citizens and experts in the fields of urban management and tourism in the city of Nour. The sampling method used was simple random sampling, selected to ensure accurate representation of the entire population. The sample size was determined using Cochran’s formula, resulting in the selection of 379 individuals as the study sample. Additionally, to assess the validity of the questionnaire, purposive sampling was employed to select 12 specialists and academics in relevant fields.
Used Devices & Materials
Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire designed based on the parameters and indicators identified in the theoretical framework and literature review. The questionnaire included sections for evaluating criteria such as recreational facilities, infrastructure, economic aspects, environmental factors, legal support, security, and public participation. A five-point Likert scale was used to measure respondents’ opinions. For data analysis, SPSS software version 24 was utilized, and statistical tests such as one-sample t-test and Friedman test were employed. Additionally, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated to assess the reliability of the data collection instrument.
Findings by Text
The criteria of "recreational and welfare facilities," "economic aspects," "environmental factors," "institutional and legal support," and "public participation" had mean values lower than the theoretical median (equal to 3), and the one-sample t-test indicated a statistically significant weakness in these areas (Table 1). In contrast, the criteria of "physical structure and infrastructure" and "security and protection" had mean values above the theoretical average and were evaluated as statistically significant and positive, suggesting their constructive role in promoting sustainable tourism development (Table 1, Figure 1).
Table 1. Impact of Riverfront Land Use Management Criteria in Nour City on Sustainable Tourism Development
Figure 1. The Impact of Riverfront Land Use Management in Nour City on Sustainable Tourism Development
Table 2 reiterated the average values of the criteria, again showing that physical and security-related aspects were in a relatively better condition compared to other dimensions. Overall, the total mean score for the parameter "land use management" was 2.808, which was below the theoretical threshold, indicating that the current state of riverfront land uses in the city of Nour was considered unfavorable for sustainable tourism development.
Table 2. Status of Riverfront Land Uses in Nour City for Sustainable Tourism Development
According to the Friedman test, the economic criterion was ranked as the highest priority in land use management, followed by the physical criterion.
The specific effects of two key interventions of "development of recreational and sports land uses" and "construction and widening of streets" were analyzed (Table 3). "Physical structure and infrastructure," with a mean of 3.106 and a high level of significance, had a positive impact on sustainable tourism development. In contrast, "recreational and welfare facilities," with a mean of 2.615 and a negative t-value, reflected a weaker status.
Table 3. Impact of the Creation and Development of Recreational and Sports Land Uses, and the Construction and Widening of Riverfront Streets on Riverfront Land Use Management in Nour City for Sustainable Tourism Development
Finally, a conceptual model for riverfront land use management aimed at sustainable tourism development was prepared (Figure 2). This model encompasses natural, economic, socio-cultural, and managerial dimensions and emphasizes the integration of economic utilization with the preservation of natural resources and local community participation.
Figure 2) Conceptual modeling of riverbank land-use organization in the city of Nour for sustainable tourism development
Main Comparisons to Similar Studies
In comparison with previous studies, the findings of this research align with the studies by Abuharris & Ruddock (2005) and Keshvarparast & Parsaee (2015), indicating that weaknesses in institutional infrastructure, the environment, and public participation are significant barriers to sustainable tourism development. Similarly, GSTC (2019) and Jahantighmand et al. (2023) emphasize the importance of strong infrastructure, security, and environmental awareness prior to land re-use. Moreover, the alignment of the results of this study with the research of Khan et al. (2020), Vasilakakis et al. (2023), and Kameri-Mbote et al. (2021) shows that economic and physical criteria are two main components in sustainable tourism development. International studies such as UN Tourism (2023) and Farhadi Uonaki & Khoshkhoo (2022) also emphasize the need for a balanced approach between economic, social, and environmental dimensions, a recommendation that this study also suggests for the city of Nour. This alignment indicates that the findings of the present research are consistent with global principles of sustainable tourism development.
Suggestions
Future research on the management of urban riverbank land uses could focus on topics such as environmental and natural resource conservation, enhancing the tourist experience, strengthening local economic development, preserving indigenous culture and heritage, and assessing social and cultural impacts. These studies are suggested with the aim of providing solutions for sustainable tourism development, increasing tourist satisfaction, creating job opportunities, reducing poverty, and preserving the cultural identity of riverine areas.
Conclusion
The land use of urban riverbanks in the city of Nour has significant weaknesses in terms of recreational and economic facilities, environmental sustainability, institutional support, and public participation, all of which have been evaluated as below the desired level. In contrast, infrastructure and security measures have been effective and have played a positive role in the development of sustainable tourism.
Acknowledgments: Nothing to declare.
Ethical Permission: Nothing to declare.
Conflict of Interest: This article is derived from the first author's dissertation. There is no conflict of interest regarding the writing and publication of this article.
Author Contributions: Fakhari F (First Author), Introduction Writer/Discussion Writer/Methodologist/Statistical analyst (40%); Motevali S (Second Author), Introduction writer/Discussion Writer (20%); Azimi Amoli J (Third Author), Introduction Writer/Discussion Writer (20%); Janbaz Ghobadi Gh (Fourth Author), Introduction Writer/Discussion Writer (20%)
Funding: Nothing to declare.
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