Lake Urmia: Signs of Recovery - Foresight Brief

This document examines the environmental decline and gradual recovery of Lake Urmia in northwestern Iran, focusing on the ecological, social, and economic implications of its shrinking surface area since the mid-1990s. It outlines the lake’s critical role in supporting agriculture, industry, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of millions within the basin, while identifying major stressors such as excessive agricultural water use, dam construction, declining precipitation, and inefficient irrigation practices. The report highlights measures taken by the Iranian government, UNDP, FAO, and international partners, including integrated water management, dam water releases, desilting of feeder rivers, and sustainable farming initiatives supported by community participation. National development plans and international cooperation projects are described as frameworks for restoration, with ongoing efforts aimed at reducing water consumption and improving conservation.