**3. Sustainable development of arid regions**

The main causes of dry weather in arid ecosystems are high regional temperature caused by the sun's rays, high pressure caused by pressure centers, ocean coast streams, high mountain ranges and high plateaus, lack of exposure to marine influences, absence of upward movement of air, and air turbulence [4]. In addition to the adverse effects of the climatic factors, arid areas also have some potential if they are well analyzed and defined. Among them are solar and wind energies; salt, sand, and gravel pits; coal, uranium, copper, and zinc mines; natural touristic sights and horticultural activities. To evaluate these potentials and to realize possible industrial and tourism investments, sustainable development plans and activities in arid areas should be investigated [5]. Environmental management and sustainable development approaches in arid ecosystems are summarized in **Figure 1**.
