Evaluation of Value-Belief-Norm Theory and Behavior in Dust Management in Part of Sistan

Conclusion: This research demonstrated that the Value–Belief–Norm theory provides a coherent and empirically validated framework for understanding community participation in environmental crisis management. The three psychological constructs—values, beliefs, and norms—form a causal chain that effectively predicts pro-environmental behaviors in the context of dust storm management in Sistan. Key conclusions include: Environmental values, particularly altruistic and biospheric orientations, constitute the foundation for ecological awareness. Beliefs act as cognitive mediators that translate abstract values into perceived moral responsibility. Personal and social norms are the most powerful determinants of participatory environmental behavior. The effect of values on behavior is largely indirect, transmitted through beliefs and norms. The findings highlight that sustainable dust management requires more than technical interventions; it demands social transformation and moral engagement. Effective policy design must integrate educational, cultural, and religious mechanisms that strengthen environmental norms and promote shared responsibility. Recommendations derived from this study include: Developing localized environmental education programs tailored to the Sistan culture. Mobilizing religious leaders and local councils to promote moral narratives around environmental stewardship. Institutionalizing community-based participatory mechanisms for dust control and land restoration. Providing economic and social incentives for households engaging in sustainable land-use practices. Establishing periodic behavioral monitoring to assess long-term changes in community attitudes. Ultimately, the study concludes that the path to ecological resilience in arid regions like Sistan lies in aligning human values and collective norms with environmental sustainability goals. Only by cultivating moral responsibility and participatory behavior can long-term mitigation of dust storms and associated crises be achieved.