Exploring the impact of dust storms on pastoralists’ livelihoods in West Iran: Social, economic, and environmental consequences

Abstract

This study investigates the economic, social, and environmental impacts of dust storms on pastoralists’ livelihoods in the Chaqakdo rangeland of West Iran. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews with 100 pastoralists in 2019. The research adopts a quantitative approach using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results demonstrate a significant and positive relationship between pastoralists’ livelihoods and the three independent variables (environmental, economic, and social), with the strongest correlation observed in environmental factors. The path coefficients indicate positive effects on pastoralists’ livelihoods. Additionally, dust storms were found to have detrimental environmental effects, such as plant leaf pollution, reduced grazing, and decreased growth of grassland plants. Therefore, it is crucial to establish adaptive measures to mitigate the impacts of dust storms on pastoralists, considering their heavy reliance on the local pastures.