Introduction:

Coastal strips, due to their proximity to ecological values and spatial attractions, are constantly subjected to increasing developmental pressures. The Rudsar coastal strip is also experiencing a trend of physical development influenced by land speculation, land use changes, and tourism demand, which is inconsistent with the ecological constraints of the region. The continuation of this conflicting trend poses serious challenges to spatial resilience and ecosystem services.

Purpose:

This research aims to explain how the conflict between urban development and ecological capacity forms in the Rudsar coastal strip, to identify its causal, contextual, and intervening factors, strategies, and consequences, and to present a paradigmatic model for aligning development with the region's ecological capacity.

Methodology:

In terms of purpose, this is applied research, and in nature, it is qualitative research conducted using Grounded Theory based on the systematic approach of Strauss and Corbin. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 28 academic experts and urban managers, and data analysis was performed in three stages: open, axial, and selective coding.

Results and Discussion:

The findings indicated that the core category is the strategic imbalance between urban development and the ecological capacity of the Rudsar coastal strip. The pressure of the political economy of land, spatial speculation, and tourism demand are the most important causal factors in the formation of this conflict. The fragility of the coastal ecosystem defines the contextual conditions of the problem; meanwhile, weak governance, institutional fragmentation, and the dependence of urban management on income from land-use changes act as intervening conditions that intensify the conflict. This situation has led to unbalanced urban expansion, environmental degradation, and a decline in ecological resilience. The proposed strategies emphasize protective zoning, reforming the municipality's revenue structure, and strengthening integrated governance.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that the sustainability of the Rudsar coastal strip requires a transition from a profit-oriented physical development model to a capacity-oriented model. Achieving this requires reducing the municipality's financial dependence on unsustainable revenues, protecting sensitive areas, and guiding development based on ecological thresholds within the framework of coordinated governance.