Uzbekistan steps up environmental leadership with Aral Sea restoration and green business push

At Eco Expo Central Asia 2025, Uzbekistan unveiled two major environmental initiatives that reinforce its commitment to sustainability and climate resilience:

Expansion of ecological recovery in Karakalpakstan, the region devastated by the Aral Sea crisis.

Launch of a national green certification system to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting sustainable practices.

Transforming Karakalpakstan into a Sustainable Model

More than 2 million hectares of vegetation have already been planted on the dried seabed of the Aral Sea. This afforestation has reduced toxic dust storms, improved soil conditions, and revived biodiversity.

Now entering a new phase, Uzbekistan will promote:

• Biosaline agriculture
• Climate-resilient farming
• Sustainable water use
   

“Our goal is to transform Karakalpakstan from an environmental disaster zone into a model of sustainable development,” said Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change.

A dedicated pavilion at the Expo showcased these innovations and called for new international partnerships.

National Green Certification for SMEs

Uzbekistan also announced a green certification programme to incentivize businesses to adopt eco-friendly operations. The system will:

• Improve access to green financing, international grants, and low-interest loans
• Support the transition of SMEs to cleaner technologies
• Be developed in collaboration with green banks and development agencies
   

“Many businesses still view environmental standards as a burden. This initiative will shift that perception,” Abdukhakimov said.

Global Recognition

UN Resident Coordinator Sabine Mahl commended Uzbekistan’s efforts, calling them a model for a just transition that integrates environmental recovery with social inclusion and economic opportunity.

With more than 30 countries and 20 international organisations represented, Eco Expo Central Asia 2025 highlighted Uzbekistan’s leadership in ecological restoration and green economic transformation.

Tags

News Politics Uzbekistan