Introduction to the Strategic Environmental Assessment and it's Use in Planning System of Iran

Development planning system of Iran is faced with many problems and obstacles. Five-year development plans and land use planning lack necessary integration and hierarchy. In these circumstances, little attention is given to environmental protection before defining projects and during the hierarchical configuration of decision-making (policies, plans and programs). In the hierarchical decision-making, environmental planning should be regarded independently but unified with the whole development planning system. The aim of this study is to introduce Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process, definitions, history, objectives, hierarchy, types, application and dimensions as an effective tool for sustainable development in Iran and finally to clarify its position in the development planning system of the country. The methodology is based on theoretical description of foundations and reviewing relevant texts. According to review of literature, SEA process is an effective tool for improving decision-making system strategically, responding to weakness of environmental impact assessment towards achieving a sustainable development. This process is used in two main fields of development (sectoral and spatial). Therefore, using the SEA process will result in the integration and improvement of five-year development plans and land use planning in environmental section. It is concluded that using SEA process in development planning system of Iran can be effective in strengthening and ensuring continuity of hierarchical decision-making, determining gaps of planning system, increasing transparency, integrating and supporting the strategic planning process and avoiding repeats and sectoral attitude.