Iran’s energy and environmental crises: The promise of a free Iran - opinion

Iran possesses some of the world's most extensive oil and natural gas reserves, yet a significant portion of its population suffers from energy shortages, inefficient industries, and alarming levels of air pollution. During colder months, power plants and industrial facilities often resort to burning mazut, a heavy fuel oil, exacerbating the air pollution problem. Winter temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, intensifying air quality issues in major cities.

These interconnected crises have severe consequences for both human health and the economy. According to Iran's Health Ministry, approximately 59,000 deaths were linked to air pollution in the year ending March 2025, resulting in an estimated economic loss of $17.2 billion. The Islamic Republic's nearly 47-year rule has failed to convert the nation's natural wealth into improved public health, energy security, and sustainable economic growth.

Instead, the regime has consistently prioritized political, ideological, and institutional interests over environmental protection and sustainable development.

Governmental inefficiencies, weak regulatory oversight, and a lack of accountability have allowed these systemic problems to persist. Iran's environmental and energy crises predated recent conflicts with the United States and Israel. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has significantly contributed to the country's environmental degradation through destructive infrastructure projects, encroachment into protected areas, and actions that undermine independent environmental oversight.

Environmental accountability cannot be selective. The regime's 47-year history of exploiting Iran's natural resources for political and ideological gain cannot be reconciled with claims of environmental stewardship while ignoring the destruction caused by its policies. Transforming Iran's national prosperity requires accountable institutions, coordinated policies, industrial modernization, and international partnerships.

The Iran Prosperity Project, spearheaded by Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, envisions a roadmap for Iran's reconstruction that emphasizes environmental recovery, energy security, and economic revitalization.

Modernizing Iran's energy infrastructure, enhancing natural gas management, and diversifying electricity generation are crucial steps in addressing chronic power shortages and reducing reliance on highly polluting fuels. Strengthening environmental regulations, improving pollution monitoring, and investing in cleaner technologies can help restore air quality and protect public health. Combining these efforts lays the groundwork for sustainable industrial and economic development.

Industrial modernization offers a chance to transform Iran's outdated production systems into efficient, environmentally responsible enterprises. Integrating environmental protection into industrial modernization, rather than treating it as a competing priority, can lead to cleaner production processes, advanced pollution controls, and energy-efficient manufacturing, reducing environmental impacts while boosting productivity.

Modernizing public transportation, embracing cleaner vehicle technologies, and fostering industrial competition can improve urban air quality while creating opportunities for technological innovation and skilled employment.

International cooperation plays a vital role in rebuilding Iran's energy, industrial, and environmental systems. The proposed Cyrus Accords, based on Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi's vision, present opportunities for partnerships centered on technological progress, economic development, and mutual prosperity. These collaborations could involve joint research, technology partnerships, and professional exchanges, leveraging Israeli expertise alongside Iran's scientific and engineering capabilities to develop tailored solutions for the nation's economic and environmental challenges.