Uzbekistan Initiates Two Major International Projects for Environmental Protection

Uzbekistan has launched two significant international projects focused on environmental protection and the promotion of a green economy.

The projects, spearheaded by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), are funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) with a total budget of $6.5 million. Both initiatives are set to run through 2030, The Caspian Post reports, citing The Times of Central Asia.

Project 1: Updating the National Biodiversity Strategy

The first initiative, titled the “Comprehensive Programme to Support the Renewal of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and the Seventh National Report,” is part of a global effort involving 69 countries, including Uzbekistan.

This project aims to update Uzbekistan’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan in alignment with the Global Biodiversity Framework. The updated plan will guide the country’s efforts to conserve its rich biodiversity and address environmental challenges.

Project 2: Restoring Valuable Ecosystems

The second project, named “Integrated Management for the Protection and Restoration of Highly Valuable Landscapes in Uzbekistan,” focuses on restoring ecosystems and exploring sustainable financing methods for biodiversity conservation.

Pilot areas for this initiative include the Western Tien Shan, Nurata Mountains, and Kugitang landscapes. These ecologically significant regions are home to diverse flora and fauna and are considered critical for Uzbekistan’s environmental health.

A key partner in the ecosystem restoration project is the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which established a regional office in Tashkent in 2024 to support conservation efforts in Central Asia.

Key Statements

Deputy Minister of Ecology Iskandar Kutbiddinov highlighted the importance of these projects during their launch. “These initiatives align with Uzbekistan’s goals for a greener future and will play a vital role in preserving our country’s biodiversity and ecosystems,” Kutbiddinov said.

UNDP Resident Representative Akiko Fujii also praised the country’s environmental efforts, noting that “Uzbekistan is taking significant steps to protect and restore its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems.”

With the launch of these two projects, Uzbekistan is strengthening its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. By aligning with global biodiversity goals and restoring vital ecosystems, the country is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.