Tashkent, Uzbekistan – On December 19-20, the III International Scientific and Practical Conference on “Nature-Based Solutions to Environmental Challenges” took place at the Central Asian University for Environmental Studies and Climate Change, often referred to as Green University.
The conference gathered a diverse group of attendees, including government officials, scholars, and experts from different countries. Keynote speakers included Aziz Abdukhakimov, the President’s Adviser on environmental issues, and Shakhlo Turdikulova, Vice President of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan.
Abdukhakimov addressed the pressing environmental problems facing Uzbekistan. These challenges range from climate change and water scarcity to biodiversity loss and air pollution. He stressed these issues not only affect the environment but also impact the economy and public health.
One major goal of the conference was to explore how to implement environmental reforms that align with sustainable development. A significant point of discussion was Uzbekistan’s declaration of 2025 as the “Year of Environmental Protection and the Green Economy.” The country aims to raise the share of green energy to 54% by 2030 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2035 according to the Paris Agreement.
Participants noted the importance of international cooperation in tackling environmental challenges. Abdukhakimov highlighted the opening of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) regional office at Green University as a sign of the global community’s confidence in Uzbekistan.
The conference also introduced innovative solutions for environmental issues. Experts discussed nature-based approaches to clean water access, green energy development, and strategies to enhance the climate resilience of ecosystems. Presentations showcased scientific assessments for restoring ecosystems in arid regions of the country.
A survey from the United Nations shows that water scarcity could affect up to 5 billion people by 2050. This urgency was evident in discussions about water-saving technologies and their role in improving agricultural productivity in dry areas.
Throughout the conference, participants focused on advancing environmental technologies and fostering international dialogue. Discussions included monitoring air quality and examining pollution sources, particularly in urban areas like Termez.
Overall, the conference served as a platform for sharing insights and building partnerships to address the environmental challenges that Uzbekistan and the broader Central Asian region face today. For more information, visit the IUCN website.
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International Experts Discussed Nature-Based Solutions to Environmental Challenges in Tashkent
