The purpose of this research was to identify and rank the drivers of environmental performance optimization and development of oil and gas refineries in the Republic of Iran using a strategic foresight approach. In terms of method, the present research is based on structural interaction matrix analysis with a strategic foresight approach and in terms of purpose, it is of a developmental-applied type. The statistical population of this research consists of 30 experts, including university professors and senior managers of oil and gas refineries in the Republic of Iran using a targeted method. The data of this research were collected through structured interviews and a qualitative questionnaire with a score from zero to three according to the structural interaction matrix and analyzed with the MICMAC statistical software. The findings of this study showed that the drivers of developing and implementing sustainable development plans in integrating refinery project processes, applying environmental standards in designing processes and operational units, training and developing environmental skills and competencies of human resources are influential drivers (influence). Also, the drivers of using renewable and clean energies in operational processes and production units, using a green approach in managing industrial waste and environmental pollutants, and modifying the energy consumption pattern in organizational and operational units of the refinery are influential drivers (dependent drivers). Finally, the drivers of upgrading air purification systems in refinery burners and exhaust chimneys are emphasizing the use of digital technologies in controlling pollution of production lines as independent drivers (eliminable drivers). The results of this study showed that identifying and ranking the drivers of optimization and development of environmental performance of oil and gas refineries in the Republic of Iran enables targeted allocation of resources, making strategic decisions, and employing effective technologies, and ultimately facilitates the movement towards sustainable development and compliance with international standards in the country.