The growing utilization of natural resources and expansion of human developmental activities have caused gradual depletion of natural resources and destruction of the environment. Unfortunately this trend is going on. The current conditions have triggered the concerns of many scholars and politicians who support the protection of the environment and thus governments and non-governmental organizations have intensified their efforts at national, regional and international levels to stop this trend.
Based on decisions made, there are two approaches toward the natural resources: Ecosystem approach and Sustainable Development approach. Both approaches have common grounds and at the same time different characteristics. Both approaches are in right and positive directions and states try to follow one of them based on their national interest and geopolitical situation.