The Central Asian University for Environmental Studies and Climate Change hosted a landmark event to celebrate the Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy with the launch of two international projects. These initiatives are jointly implemented by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan, with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from government ministries, agencies, the scientific community, civil society, and international organizations, which will hopefully foster collaboration and shared commitment to advancing Uzbekistan’s environmental goals. 

The first initiative, titled “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 project being implemented in 69 countries, including Uzbekistan. It aims to assist nations in updating their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans and preparing their seventh national biodiversity reports. Through this project, Uzbekistan will develop an updated NBSAP aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework, including new national targets based on this framework. 

The second initiative, “Integrated Management for the Protection and Restoration of Highly Valuable Landscapes in Uzbekistan”, focuses on practical measures to create favorable conditions for ecosystem restoration. This will involve inclusive and well-considered policies, innovative ecosystem restoration approaches, and developing and testing effective, sustainable biodiversity conservation financing mechanisms. A key partner in this effort is the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), whose regional office was officially opened in Tashkent in 2024. The project’s pilot areas include the landscapes of the Western Tien Shan, the Nurata Mountains, and Kugitang. 

The combined budget for these projects amounts to approximately $6.5 million, with implementation planned through 2030. 

Speaking at the event, Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, highlighted the importance of these initiatives:

“Uzbekistan is taking significant steps to protect and restore its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. We at UNDP are happy to support the country’s commitment to global biodiversity goals. We are confident that the collaboration between government, civil society, and international partners will yield transformative results, setting a strong foundation for a greener future for the young people of Uzbekistan”.

Muhayyo Toshqorayeva, UzA