The Areas of Effective Participation of Non-Governmental Organizations in Environmental policy-making process: Structural Equation Modeling

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the areas influencing the optimal NGOs participation in governmental policy-making process (Environmental Protection Agency in Tehran). In this study, 13 organizations were selected as the statistical population. The sample size was determined using Cochran's formula of 378 people.The sampling method of the study is also using available sampling. After collecting the data by using a structured questionnaire, structural equation modeling and hypothesis testing was conducted based on Partial Least Squares approach. The results showed that in general, the construct in the model affecting areas on the participation of non-governmental organizations in policy-making of the Environmental Protection Agency explain almost 61 percent of the variance.Also from the viewpoint of members,environmental NGOs can participate in the creation of environmental decisions and monitor and evaluate the implementation of environmental decisions and have an important role in environmental policy-making process.