a study of the mechanisms and contexts of public participation in environmental protection

this research was conducted to determine and study the profile of participants, the contexts and the mechanisms of public participation. the methodology was survey and respondents were 150 of experts of department of environment of iran. sampling was random and mail questionnaire was used for data collection. the questionnaire used a 5-point scale to explore experts statements related to extents and form of public participation in environmental matters. the hypothesis of the study was tested using factor analysis. the results showed that religious leaders, local managers, teachers, extension agents, factories mangers, and media mangers have maximum potential for participation. the results also revealed that the most important contexts of participation are prevention practices, cooperation practices and protected area managing. finally, in relation to participation mechanisms, the results showed that community based organizations (cooperatives), dialogue meetings and symbolic ceremonies are of high importance.