Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Master of Science in Rangeland Management, Faculty of Natural Resources, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor. Iran.
2
Department of Rangeland Management Faculty of Natural Resources, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU) Noor P.O.Box (46417-76489), Mazandaran Province, Iran.
3
Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Karaj. Iran.
4
Professor, Department of Development, Faculty of Biotechnology and Agriculture, University of Liège, Belgium
10.22059/jnrg.2025.401811.1051
Abstract
Effective natural resource governance requires moving beyond state-centric approaches and embracing interactive frameworks that engage diverse stakeholders in decision-making processes. Despite the growing global discourse on good governance, the mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in linking stakeholder interactions to governance efficiency remains underexplored—particularly in regions heavily dependent on natural resources. This study aims to examine the impact of stakeholder interactions on the effectiveness of good natural resource governance, with CSR as a mediating variable. The research is applied in nature and employs a descriptive–analytical methodology. The statistical population includes employees of governmental organizations and active mining units in Takab County, West Azerbaijan Province. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM) using Smart PLS software. Reliability and validity indices confirmed the adequacy of the research instrument, and the coefficient of determination indicated strong explanatory power of the model. Findings revealed that stakeholder interactions have a significant positive effect on CSR and governance efficiency. Moreover, CSR positively influences governance and plays a moderate mediating role between stakeholder interactions and governance outcomes. Specifically, the standardized path coefficient between stakeholder interactions and CSR was 0.673, with a t-value of 14.413, indicating a highly significant effect at the 99% confidence level. The results suggest that sustainable natural resource governance cannot rely solely on governmental mechanisms; rather, it requires multi-actor collaboration, strengthened organizational responsibility, and enhanced social capital. Accordingly, policymakers can facilitate effective governance and sustainable development by designing participatory strategies and improving institutional accountability.
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