The "Eco-city" approach has been introduced as an innovative model for achieving sustainable urban development. This research aims to examine and formulate strategies for establishing an eco-city in Gerash, emphasizing its environmental and social capacities. The study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical method, leveraging documentary and survey-based studies. Required data were collected through 380 questionnaires for citizens and 30 questionnaires for experts. Data analysis was performed using t-tests and factor analysis in SPSS software. Subsequently, strategies for creating an eco-city in Gerash, tailored to its local conditions, were developed.

The results indicated that although citizens of Gerash have a moderate level of awareness regarding the concept of an eco-city, the city’s environmental potentials and certain social characteristics provide a foundation for realizing the eco-city approach. Furthermore, recognizing and reviving traditional architectural and urban planning patterns in Gerash can play a significant role when integrated with eco-city principles. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in awareness levels among different age and gender groups of Gerash citizens about the eco-city concept. Factor analysis also identified the most critical achievable indicators of an eco-city in Gerash across various dimensions. Out of 20 factors, six key factors were identified and explained: sustainability and eco-city development, management and technology in eco-city development, participation and sustainable management in eco-cities, economic and social sustainability in eco-cities, environmental sustainability in eco-cities, and monitoring eco-city implementation. These require special attention in this context.

Overall, the findings of this research demonstrated that, given Gerash’s environmental potentials and certain existing social capacities, transforming this city into a sustainable eco-city is feasible. Adopting the eco-city approach in Gerash could serve as an effective step toward environmental conservation, restoring orchards and agricultural lands, controlling pollution, optimizing resource management, and ultimately improving citizens’ quality of life while achieving sustainable urban development.