At the initiative of Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the year 2025 has been designated as the “Year of Environmental Protection and the Green Economy.” This move is intended to mark a new stage in the country’s socio-economic development. Through this initiative, Uzbekistan not only aims to address its ecological challenges, but also opens new opportunities for achieving sustainable development.
Unfortunately, the ecological situation in Uzbekistan is associated with a number of problems, which include the following:
Firstly, our country is geographically located in a region facing water scarcity. Therefore, water resources are of paramount importance to us. The territory that supplies water to our region—namely the high mountain glaciers—is shrinking each year due to global warming. This has led to the emergence of water shortages. The waters of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, which flow through our country, are used not only in Uzbekistan but also for irrigating agricultural lands in Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and the Kyrgyz Republic. It is very concerning that water shortages are leading to other related issues as well.
Secondly, during the period of Soviet rule, chemical fertilizers and pesticides were used excessively on agricultural lands. As a result, the biological composition of the soil has suffered severe damage, fields have become salinized and subject to erosion, and agricultural productivity has declined. Most alarmingly, the availability of natural resources essential to us is decreasing. The artificial destruction of forests and thickets, the large-scale felling of trees, and the salinization of soil are causing significant harm to nature.
Thirdly, air pollution from toxic gases is increasing day by day. The loss of green spaces, emissions from industrial enterprises, and toxic gases from vehicles are contributing to the deterioration of the air quality we breathe.
Another issue is the lack of proper management of waste generated by households and industrial enterprises, which negatively impacts environmental cleanliness. It is especially troubling that some types of waste do not decompose or disappear even after centuries, releasing harmful substances into the environment and further polluting nature.
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The transition to a “green” economy requires the introduction of innovative technologies. This entails developing new solutions aimed at increasing energy efficiency, reducing and managing waste, recycling, and using natural resources rationally.
The deterioration of the environmental situation in Uzbekistan has received serious attention from the country’s leadership. Issues of ecology and environmental protection have become one of the key directions of state policy. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, at international forums and dialogues, has advanced a number of initiatives on the effective use of natural resources and the protection of the environment.
In recent years, Uzbekistan’s efforts to combat climate change have become particularly significant. The country is implementing various programs in cooperation with international organizations aimed at addressing climate change. Reforms are being carried out in the management of water resources, and cooperation in this area with Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and other countries is of special importance.
In Uzbekistan, the supply and rational use of water are considered urgent issues. Under the leadership of the President, projects are being developed to save water, improve water management systems, transition to a “green” economy, promote renewable energy sources, and manage natural resources wisely.
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The nationwide “Green Space” program is one of the projects implemented in Uzbekistan to ensure environmental sustainability and develop green energy sources. Within the framework of this program, large-scale efforts are being made to plant saplings and establish green parks and public gardens. In addition, plans are underway to expand the use of solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources. To this end, work has begun on the introduction of modern technologies, increasing energy efficiency, and implementing “green” energy projects in rural areas. Measures implemented as part of this program are aimed at reducing soil, air, and water pollution, improving waste management, and protecting nature.
Designating 2025 as the “Year of Environmental Protection and the Green Economy” in Uzbekistan will, above all, raise ecological awareness and culture in society. Up to this point in the year, issues of environmental protection and the “green” economy have been widely promoted, and the tasks outlined in the annual program are being carried out. The transition to a “green” economy will help ensure Uzbekistan’s sustainable development. Efficient use of resources, reduction of waste, and increased energy efficiency will lead to positive results in alleviating environmental challenges.
Throughout the year, we are witnessing the introduction of new technologies and innovations, which, in turn, stimulate economic growth and create new jobs.
Given the global significance of environmental protection, Uzbekistan intends to further strengthen its cooperation with international organizations. This year, measures are being implemented to modernize agriculture, and the principles of the “green” economy are being applied in this sector as well. The application of these principles in agriculture helps increase productivity while preserving ecosystems. As a result, social stability in our country is ensured. Adhering to the principles of environmental protection and the “green” economy contributes to social stability, improves public health, and enhances living standards.
In line with the state’s policies and reforms in this direction, large-scale initiatives are also being implemented at Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages. In particular, solar panels with a capacity of 220 kW have been installed at the institute’s new academic building on Gagarin Street in Samarkand. The annual capacity of these panels reaches 440,000 kWh, and any surplus electricity generated is sold to the local power supply company. As a result, the institute is saving 396 million soums annually.
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Similar initiatives are being introduced at the institute’s branches and other facilities as well. All electrical equipment has been replaced with modern, energy-efficient appliances and energy-saving lighting. Awareness and educational campaigns are being conducted on energy saving, the rational use of electricity, and strict adherence to fire safety rules during the autumn-winter season.
Additionally, as part of the nationwide “Green Space” program, 3,000 fruit and ornamental tree saplings were planted on our institution’s grounds this spring, and 1,500 more were planted in autumn 2024. Each sapling is under the care and supervision of designated staff, ensuring proper maintenance. We intend to further expand the scale of such efforts.
Overall, the “Year of Environmental Protection and the Green Economy” is playing a crucial role in improving Uzbekistan’s ecological situation, stimulating economic growth, and raising society’s environmental awareness.
Bakhodir Kholikov
Bakhodir Kholikov serves as the Rector of the Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages in Uzbekistan.
