Identification of Effective Components in Natural Resource Governance: A Case Study of Rudan County

Natural resources are regarded as vital tools for development and enhancing the quality of human life, while the management of resources represent one of the key challenges on the path to the sustainable development, necessitating special attention. This study employs Grounded Theory and a Glaserian approach to investigate the components influencing on the natural resources governance in Rudan County. It aims to identify and present a conceptual model of the natural resources governance system, analyzing the existing challenges and opportunities in managing natural resources in the region. Data collection was conducted using a snowball sampling method, which achieved theoretical saturation after 17 interviews. The analysis proceeded through three stages: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding, resulting in the identification of 57 open codes, 19 axial codes, and 8 selective codes. Based on the findings, the conceptual model of the natural resources governance system in Rudan County was designed with a focus on eight selective codes including: sustainable resources management, environmental protection, sustainable agricultural development, ecological analysis, social participation, monitoring and evaluation, infrastructure development, education and empowerment. Social participation is emphasized as a key pillar of the developed model, highlighting the necessity of establishing positive relationships and trust among local stakeholders, government entities, and non-governmental organizations. Given the cultural and economic diversity of Rudan County, the model can facilitate the identification and utilization of the local capacities. Meanwhile, the challenges present in the management process can be also addressed through increased transparency and effective communication; ultimately, this model can serve as a template for other regions.