Uzbekistan Rallies Global Partners to Tackle Air Pollution Ahead of Clean Air Day

Ahead of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Ecology, together with international partners, have held a thematic event under the “Automation of Air Pollution Monitoring” project to develop joint strategies aimed at improving air quality, boosting climate resilience, and reducing environmental risks to public health.

“Clean air delivers triple dividends - it protects human health, supports climate action, and drives economic growth. By addressing pollution from sectors like energy, transport, industry, agriculture, and waste, Uzbekistan can safeguard its population and become a regional leader in environmental governance,” stated Arnold Kreilhuber, Director of UNEP’s Europe Office, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

Participants reviewed national air quality monitoring data, including findings from the Aral Sea region and a recent UNEP-led study in Termez, where sand and dust storms are the dominant sources of pollution. A similar analysis is scheduled for Namangan in 2026.

Experts underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive national air quality management system and recommended integrating real-time monitoring data into urban development plans. Such efforts, they agreed, are essential to devising effective, long-term solutions for Uzbekistan’s environmental challenges.