perپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017113articleAli Maddahiana.maddahian@areeo.ac.ir1Reza Naseri Harsinir.naseri@areeo.ac.ir2hooshang Dehghanzadehh_dehghanzadeh@yahoo.com3Seyed Mousa Saadatmirghadimmousa.saadat@gmail.com4Marzieh Alidoust alidust.marzieh@gmail.com5Hamed Kioumarsih_kioumarsi@yahoo.com6Animal Science Research Department, Gilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Rasht, Iran استادیار علوم دامی مرکز تحقیقات و آموزش کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی استان گیلانAnimal Science Research Department, Gilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Rasht, IranDepartment of Horticulture Crops Research, Guilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Rasht, Iranبخش تحقیقات علوم دامی، مرکز تحقیقات و آموزش کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی استان گیلان، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، رشت، ایران<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Salmonella</em> bacteria naturally exist in the gastrointestinal tract of animals and can be transmitted to humans via contaminated food, water, and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of feed restriction and <em>Salmonella</em> challenge on broiler chickens. A total of 240 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four treatment groups, each with six replicates, in a completely randomized design: (1) Control (C), (2) Feed Restriction (FR), (3) <em>Salmonella</em> challenge without feed restriction (S), and (4) Combined Feed Restriction and <em>Salmonella</em> challenge (FR+S). Parameters measured included cecal bacterial counts, growth performance, humoral immunity, and intestinal morphology. Feed restriction was implemented during the second week of rearing by limiting feed intake to 80% of that of ad libitum-fed groups. Results showed that in the second week, birds in the FR+S group exhibited significantly lower weight gain compared to other groups (<em>P</em>&lt;0.05). Additionally, this group showed reduced antibody titers and cellular immune responses, indicating potential adverse effects on bird health and overall productivity (<em>P</em>&lt;0.05). The weights of lymphoid organs were also decreased in response to the combined stressors (<em>P</em>&lt;0.05). At 42 days of age, the group challenged with Salmonella and subjected to feed restriction showed the highest Salmonella shedding compared to the group challenged with Salmonella without feed restriction. These findings highlight the importance of optimized nutritional and sanitary management in minimizing the spread of environmental contaminants.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/48955Contamination Immunity Salmonella Feed restriction.perپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-0710171527articleسید جواد مدبرj.modabber@ikco.ir1Ali Sayadi malakamia.sayadi@ikco.ir2Amir Emamiemami.a.88@gmail.com3Naeemeh Shirakbarin.shirakbari@gmail.com4زهره رشمئيZohreh.rashmei@gmail.com5IKCO, Deputy of Technical Services, Energy Management, Water Quality Control LaboratoryIKCO, Deputy of Technical Services, Energy Management, Water Quality Control LaboratoryIKCO, Deputy of Technical Services, Energy Management, Water Quality Control LaboratoryIKCO, Deputy of Quality, Management of Chemicals Quality AssuranceIKCO, Deputy of Quality, Management of Chemicals Quality Assurance<p style="text-align: justify;">Various methods such as ion exchange, membrane processes, chemical coagulation, and electrocoagulation are employed to reduce fluoride ions from water. In this study, electrocoagulation was applied to reduce fluoride concentration in the overflow water from the phosphate chemical tank in the pre-treatment section of an automotive paint shop. The influent, which is the continuously flowing rinsing overflow from the phosphate tank, contained fluoride concentrations ranging from 22 to 35 mg/L, pH between 5.2 and 6.3, turbidity of 31&ndash;35 NTU, electrical conductivity of 1815&ndash;2008 &mu;S/cm, and TDS levels between 909 and 952 mg/L. A rectifier supplying 50 volts and 110 amperes was used to energize 2, 3, 4, and 5 aluminum and iron electrodes in a 1 m&sup3; electrocoagulation reactor. The system was operated over four days, with samples taken at 15, 30, 45, and 60-minute intervals each day. The effects of electrode number and retention time on fluoride removal efficiency were evaluated. Results from pilot-scale and laboratory experiments showed that the electrocoagulation process achieved fluoride removal efficiencies between 75% and 85%. The highest fluoride reduction&mdash;from 24.2 to 3.7 mg/L&mdash;was observed in the system with 4 electrodes and a retention time of 60 minutes. Notably, as the initial fluoride concentration decreased over time, turbidity and current intensity also declined. However, the pH of the treated water became strongly alkaline, reaching as high as 10.27 in one of the tests.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/48826Fluoride ions Phosphate tank Electrocoagulation Industrial wastewaterperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-0710172948articleBahareh Rafieirafiei.bahareh@gmail.com1Fatemeh Moazzezi famoazzezi@gmail.com2Plant Protection Research Department, Gilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Rasht, IranSocial and Extension Research Department, Gilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Rasht, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">In recent years, the importance of developing and implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs has grown due to increasing environmental concerns associated with the use of chemical pesticides. As a comprehensive and sustainable approach, IPM integrates biological, mechanical, agronomic, and chemical methods to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and maintain ecological balance. The environmental and economic benefits of IPM are substantial. Key advantages include reduced production costs, improved crop quality and yield, enhanced food security, decreased contamination of natural resources, biodiversity conservation, and greater safety for non-target species. These benefits can be translated into economic value, and assessing the economic impact of IPM programs can support broader adoption and policy planning. Despite its numerous benefits, the implementation of IPM still faces challenges, including farmers&rsquo; lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and continued reliance on conventional practices. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive educational initiatives and supportive policy frameworks. This review highlights the critical role of IPM in mitigating the negative environmental impacts of pesticide use. It also examines the economic factors and models that influence the environmental outcomes of IPM implementation, drawing on scientific evidence and case studies.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/49270Fluoride ions Phosphate tank Electrocoagulation Industrial wastewaterperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-0710174967articleSeyyed Mahmood Hashemihashemism@guilan.ac.ir1Pooya Talebitalebipooya614@gmail.com2Fatemeh Hamivandmahmood1361@gmail.com3Assisstant Professor, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmeh Sara, Guilan, IranM.Sc. in Environmental Science and Engineering , Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmeh Sara, Guilan, IranM.Sc Student in Environmental Science and Engineering, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmeh Sara, Guilan, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">Urban wetlands, as sensitive ecosystems, play a vital role in mitigating the impacts of climate change and supporting sustainable development. Aynak Wetland in Rasht, as the largest urban wetland in Iran, faces multiple challenges, including industrial pollution, invasive species, and unregulated urban expansion. This study aimed to evaluate the ecotourism potential of the wetland and propose sustainable management strategies. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating field surveys (347 samples) and a strategic SWOT analysis. Internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities and threats) were weighted and ranked using SPSS (version 22) and Microsoft Excel. The reliability of the questionnaires was confirmed with a Cronbach&rsquo;s alpha coefficient of 0.84. The total weighted scores for strengths (1.719) and opportunities (1.829) exceeded those of weaknesses (1.38) and threats (1.169). Key strengths identified include proximity to the city center of Rasht, the presence of migratory birds, and the availability of permanent water resources. The main challenges were industrial pollutants, the spread of invasive species (such as water hyacinth), and the absence of an integrated management plan. Based on the SWOT matrix results, an aggressive (SO) strategy&mdash;focusing on the development of ecotourism infrastructure, the establishment of nature-based camps, and enhanced local community engagement&mdash;is recommended as the optimal approach. This study highlights the critical need to integrate urban planning with ecological conservation in the management of Iran's urban wetlands.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/49919urban wetland ecotourism SWOT analysis sustainable development Aynak wetlandperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-0710176987articleFariba Ostovarf_os_46@yahoo.com1saeed poorkareemsaeedpoorkareem@yahoo.com2Niloofar Abedinzadehn.abedinzadeh@acecr.ac.ir3Mohadese Tavakolimohadesetavakoli000@gmail.com4Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Researcher at Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Guilan, IranSupervisor of the Operation Group of Wastewater Treatment Plants in Guilan Province, Guilan Water and Wastewater Compony, Rasht, IranPh.D. in Environmental Science, Faculty Member at Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Rasht, IranM.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry, Research Associate at Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, Rasht, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">Wastewater generated from glove manufacturing industries, particularly latex-containing effluents, is challenging to treat due to the presence of refractory organic compounds, stable colloids, and various chemical additives. This study aimed to optimize the chemical coagulation&ndash;flocculation process to reduce the organic load of such wastewater using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Three coagulants&mdash;aluminum sulfate (alum), ferric chloride (FeCl₃), and polyaluminum chloride (PAC)&mdash;were evaluated in combination with auxiliary coagulants, including lime and a polymeric polyelectrolyte (polyacrylamide). The experimental design was carried out using a Central Composite Design (CCD) comprising 26 experimental runs, with COD selected as the key performance indicator. The results showed that PAC outperformed the other coagulants in COD removal efficiency. Under optimal conditions, the combination of PAC, lime, and polyacrylamide achieved more than 89.5% COD removal, with respective concentrations of 211.5 mg/L (PAC), 41.5 mg/L (lime), and 2.1 mg/L (polyacrylamide), resulting in a residual COD concentration of approximately 183 mg/L. ANOVA results indicated that both the linear and quadratic effects of PAC, as well as its interaction with lime, were statistically significant (P &lt; 0.01), and the second-order model demonstrated a strong fit with a high F-value. Overall, the combined use of PAC, lime, and polyacrylamide proved to be an effective, economical, and reliable method for the advanced treatment of latex-containing wastewater, potentially enabling compliance with discharge standards and facilitating reuse in agriculture.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50374Chemical treatment Latex industry wastewater Coagulation–flocculation Polyaluminum chloride (PAC) Response Surface Methodology (RSM) CODperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-07101789107articleSeyede Zahra Mousavi nadarvand zahra.mousavi6758@gmail.com1Abdolrassoul Salman Mahinyrassoulmahiny@gmail.com2Peyman Karamipeymankarami1988@gmail.com3seyedhamed mirkarimiseyedhamedmirkarimi@gmail.com4Hamidreza Kamyabkamyab.hr@gmail.com5PhD Candidate, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranProfessor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranPhD, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment Sciences, Malayer University, Malayer, IranAssociate Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranAssistant Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">Monitoring and analyzing land use and land cover (LULC) changes in protected areas and their surrounding buffer zones play an important role in sustainable habitat management and biodiversity conservation. This study examines LULC changes in four protected areas of Lorestan Province, Iran (Ghalikouh, Oshtorankouh, Sefidkouh, and Shadabkouh), together with a 20-kilometer buffer zone, over the period 1990&ndash;2050. The key novelty of this research lies in the simultaneous analysis of both the protected areas and their adjacent zones, enabling a clearer distinction between internal and external pressures and a deeper understanding of human-induced impacts. LULC maps were generated by integrating Landsat satellite imagery with the global GLC_FCS30 product at a 30-meter resolution. Future changes up to 2050 were projected using logistic regression modeling in TerrSet software. To assess the significance of LULC changes within the protected areas and their surrounding buffers, statistical tests including Friedman, Wilcoxon, proportion tests, and Chi-square were performed in SPSS at a 5% significance level. The results indicated significant changes inside the protected areas, particularly in built-up and agricultural classes, whereas forest cover and water bodies remained relatively stable. In addition, human pressures in the surrounding buffers intensified, resulting in the expansion of built-up and agricultural land uses. These findings emphasize the necessity of integrated management beyond the official boundaries of protected areas, the use of advanced remote sensing technologies, and active participation of local communities to ensure sustainable conservation of natural resources.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50865Protected areas statistical analysis logistic regression model Lorestan Province Land Use Changeperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017109123articleMir Hamed Hakemzadehm_h_hakemzadeh@yahoo.com1Shahram Sharifish.sharifi@acecr.ac.ir2mohammad reza golriz eram sadatimr.golriz@yahoo.com3Maryam Haghighihaghighi@acecr.ac.ir4morteza karimimorteza.karimi@acecr.ac.ir5seyyed javad mousavij.mosavi89@yahoo.com6Researcher, Department of Environmental Engineering, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, IranAssistant Prof, Department of Regional Studies, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, IranResearcher, Department of Environmental Engineering, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, IranAssistand Professor, Department of Water Monitoring, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, IranResearcher, Department of Water Monitoring, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, IranAssistand Professor, Department of Environmental Engineering, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">The growing energy demand, the need to reduce fossil fuel dependency, and the global transition to renewable energy have made solar photovoltaic (PV) systems a viable option for electricity generation in Gilan Province, Iran. However, due to the region&rsquo;s climatic conditions and limited solar radiation for much of the year, no comprehensive techno-economic study has assessed the feasibility of PV systems for residential electricity supply. This study evaluates the technical and economic viability of solar PV systems in Gilan, aiming to provide sustainable energy, reduce environmental impacts, and assess cost-effectiveness for residential applications. NASA climatic data and PVsyst software were used to simulate system performance under three scenarios: (1) off-grid systems, (2) grid-connected systems with battery storage, and (3) grid-connected systems without batteries. The findings indicate that off-grid systems and grid-connected systems with batteries are not economically feasible due to high storage costs and low electricity tariffs. In contrast, grid-connected systems without battery storage are economically viable, considering system longevity and lower operating expenses. Among the counties studied, Rudbar exhibits the highest technical and economic potential, with optimal solar radiation of 2166 kWh/m&sup2;, making it the most suitable location for PV system deployment in residential buildings. These results provide valuable insights for policymakers and investors to promote renewable energy development in Gilan Province, contributing to regional sustainability and long-term energy independence</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50450Renewable energy Solar energy Photovoltaic power plants Techno-economic evaluation Greenhouse gas emissionsperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017125134articleZahra Zamiraeizamiraei@gmail.com1Kurosh Rad Moghadamkrad89677@gmail.com2Department of Chemistry, University Campus, University of Guilan, Rasht, IranDepartment of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">In this study, the synthesis and application of a novel azo dye containing a phenanthro[10,9-d] imidazole group as a chemosensor for cyanide ions (CN⁻) in aqueous media were investigated. Due to its high toxicity and detrimental effects on human health and natural ecosystems, cyanide requires rapid, sensitive, and selective detection methods. The synthesized dye exhibited high selectivity and sensitivity toward CN⁻ via an optical absorption mechanism accompanied by a distinct color change, enabling effective detection even in the presence of competing anions. Spectroscopic analysis revealed a detection limit of 5 &times; 10⁻⁶ M based on absorption spectral analysis, while the visual detection limit using test strips was found to be 2 &times; 10⁻⁵ M. A noticeable color transition from pale yellow to orange, along with a red shift in the UV-Vis spectrum, indicated the formation of a stable complex between the dye and the cyanide ion. To improve the practical applicability of this method, test strips were fabricated by immobilizing the synthesized dye, allowing for rapid and visual detection of CN⁻ in real samples (such as industrial wastewater and effluents) without the need for complex instrumentation. Owing to its simplicity, low cost, high sensitivity, and excellent selectivity, the proposed method shows great potential for environmental monitoring, industrial applications, and water quality assessment.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50205Azo dyes Phenanthroimidazole Cyanide ion Optical chemosensor Environmental toxicityperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017135152articlemansoureh abbasimns.abbasi@ut.ac.ir1Saeed Karimikarimis@ut.ac.ir2PhD Student in Environmental Planning, Department of Environmental Planning and Management and HSE, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, IranAssistant Professor, Department of Environmental Planning and Management and HSE, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran<p style="text-align: justify;">Steel, due to its unique properties, is a vital material in modern industries. In a world, where there are growing concerns about increasing resource consumption, it is essential to adopt appropriate strategies that contribute to environmental sustainability, social welfare, and economic benefits. One of these strategies is the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach; however, calculating environmental impacts using public databases can be challenging. This study, conducted through documentary review and library research, provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental impacts of the steel industry using an integrated application of Life Cycle Assessment, Emergy, and Carbon Footprint (LCA&ndash;Emergy&ndash;Carbon Footprint). To identify and analyze the factors affecting the environmental performance of the steel industry, the study employs the Driver&ndash;Pressure&ndash;State&ndash;Impact&ndash;Response (DPSIR) framework and emphasizes the development of guidelines for assessing industrial impacts on the environment. The research further analyzes the main damages and challenges of the steel industry across social, economic, and environmental dimensions. To promote continuous improvement in resource efficiency, environmental quality, and operational performance, it presents new sustainability approaches for this sector. These approaches include measures based on clean energy development, energy-saving technologies, intelligent operation systems, environmental management, and strategies for designing and implementing low-carbon projects.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50724Environmental Impact Assessment Environment Steel Industry DPSIR Modelperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017153166articleMehdi Mohammadi-Moghadammm.moghadam52@gmail.com1Anna Abdolshahiana.abdoshahi@gmail.com2Alireza Barjasteharbarjasteh@yahoo.com3Mehdi Basiratmbasirat2000@yahoo.com4Masoumeh Haghdelm-haghdel@pri.ir5Saeed Mehrjoumehrjouseed@yahoo.com6Crop and Horticultural Sciences Research Department, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center of Semnan Province (Shahrood), AREEO, Shahrood, IranDepartment of Food Sciences and Industry, School of Nutrition, Food Sciences, Management and Medical Information, Semnan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Semnan, IranDepartment of Plant Protection, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center of Semnan Province (Shahrood), AREEO, Shahrood, IranPistachio Research Center, Horticultural Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Rafsanjan, IranPistachio Research Center, Horticultural Science Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Rafsanjan, IranEconomic, Social and Extension Research Department, Gilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Rasht, Iran<table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p style="text-align: justify;">This study was conducted to evaluate the type and concentration of pesticide residues in pistachio samples collected from orchards in Damghan County, the main pistachio-producing area of Semnan Province, Iran. Pistachio samples were obtained from processing terminals located in four major pistachio-growing regions of Damghan. The type and level of pesticide residues were analyzed using gas chromatography&ndash;mass spectrometry (GC&ndash;MS) and liquid chromatography&ndash;mass spectrometry (LC&ndash;MS/MS). In addition, to assess possible contamination with aflatoxins, the samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results revealed the presence of residues of 11 pesticides in the analyzed pistachio samples. Among the detected pesticides, the concentrations of acetamiprid (0.1359 mg/kg; MRL = 0.05 mg/kg) and imidacloprid (0.3448 mg/kg; MRL = 0.07 mg/kg) exceeded the maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by the European Union. Overall, 9 samples (17.3%) contained pesticide residues above the MRLs, while the remaining samples were below the permissible levels. Furthermore, aflatoxin analysis showed that 9 out of 52 tested samples were contaminated with aflatoxins, among which 8 samples were below and 1 sample exceeded the permissible limit.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/51268Pistachio Damghan Pesticides GC–MS Aflatoxin HPLCperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017167184articleShaghayegh Ebrahimiebrahimi.shg@gmail.com1seyedhamed mirkarimiseyedhamedmirkarimi@gmail.com2Sepideh Saeidis.saeidi@ymail.com3Fatemeh Hashemifh@agro.au.dk4MSc Student in Environmental Planning, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranAssociate Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranAssistant Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, IranAssistant Professor of Agroecology, Arhus University, Tjele, Denmark<table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p style="text-align: justify;">Paper production, due to the consumption of resources such as water, minerals, and fossil fuels, requires a comprehensive assessment of its environmental impacts. Conducting case studies in domestic industries, such as the Golestan Persia Paper Factory, provides practical insights for sustainable production and evidence-based decision-making. In this study, a life cycle assessment (LCA) of the white top liner paper production process was performed at the Golestan Persia Paper Factory in Golestan Province, with the aim of evaluating environmental impacts in accordance with ISO 14040 standards. The system boundary was defined as gate-to-gate, and the functional unit was one ton of paper. SimaPro software (version 9.0.0.35) was used to assess environmental impacts, applying the EF and GHG methods to evaluate ecological footprint and greenhouse gas emissions, respectively. The results indicated that the ecological footprint of the paper production process was &minus;7.3 Pt, while the greenhouse gas emissions amounted to &minus;11.1 kg CO₂-equivalent. Among all process inputs, white wastepaper and brown cardboard contributed most positively to reducing impacts, whereas calcium carbonate had the highest negative contribution. Substituting raw materials with more environmentally friendly alternatives and employing cleaner energy sources can enhance the environmental compatibility of the paper production process. This study highlights that life cycle assessment can serve as a valuable tool for managerial decision-making and environmental policymaking within the paper manufacturing industry.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50592Ecological Footprint Greenhouse Gas Footprint Life Cycle Assessment SimaPro Persia Golestan Paper Factoryperپژوهشکده محیط زیست جهاددانشگاهیپژوهش و فناوری محیط زیست2676-30602676-30602025-071017185200articleSaeed Kian Poors_kianpoor@pnu.ac.ir1Mohsen Hajianmohsenhajian.eco@gmail.com2Sepideh Azimis-azimi@nus.ac.ir3Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, Payame Noor University, Tehran, IranDepartment of Economics, Payame Noor University, Tehran, IranInstructor, Department of Basic Sciences, National University of Skills, Tehran, Iran <p style="text-align: justify;">The dynamic interactions between economic and environmental variables in Iran have become increasingly important in light of globalization challenges and climate change. This study uses the Quantile Vector Autoregression (QVAR) approach to examine volatility connectedness among economic variables (Economic Indicator, Economic Complexity, Globalization) and an environmental variable (CO₂ emissions) over the period 2006&ndash;2023. The objective is to analyze the interactions of these variables across the 25th, 50th, and 75th quantiles and identify their roles as transmitters or receivers of volatility under normal and crisis conditions. Annual data were preprocessed and differenced to achieve stationarity using the Augmented Dickey&ndash;Fuller (ADF) test, and were analyzed using spillover indices (TCI, NET, TO, FROM) and connectedness networks. The findings show that the Total Connectedness Index (TCI) rises to 33.84 in the 75th quantile (crisis conditions) and decreases to 17.13 in the 50th quantile (normal conditions), confirming a U-shaped pattern. The Economic Indicator and Economic Complexity acted as major transmitters of volatility during crises such as the global financial crisis (2006&ndash;2010), the China crisis (2014&ndash;2017), and the Russia&ndash;Ukraine war (2021&ndash;2023). In contrast, CO₂ emissions consistently remained a receiver, highlighting the high vulnerability of Iran&rsquo;s environmental sector to economic shocks. Globalization also acted as a receiver in both tranquil and crisis periods, showing intensified vulnerability during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019&ndash;2022) and the Silicon Valley Bank crisis (2022&ndash;2023). The peak TCI in 2014 coincided with the sharp drop in oil prices, underscoring the critical influence of economic variables. These results emphasize the need to strengthen economic complexity through green industries and pursue active management of globalization during crises.</p>http://journal.eri.acecr.ir/Article/50313Volatility Connectedness Quantile Vector Autoregression Economic–Environmental Variables Iran