An international conference in Uzbekistan, organized by the Oliy Majlis Senate’s Committee on Development of the Aral Bay Region and Ecology, in collaboration with the UNDP, Uzhydromet, and the Environmental Movement of Uzbekistan, brought together stakeholders from Central Asia and beyond to tackle climate change issues.
With the financial backing of the Green Climate Fund, the conference aimed to provide a platform for discussing approaches and opportunities to prioritize climate change adaptation strategies. Representatives from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, along with state and non-state organizations, scientific communities, international development agencies, and financial institutions, converged to share experiences and insights.
One of the keynote points emphasized during the conference was the alarming pace at which climate change is manifesting its impacts. From erratic weather patterns to rising temperatures and shifting hydrological cycles, the signs of environmental distress are evident. Particularly vulnerable are the developing countries, which often lack the resources to cope with these changes, leading to dire consequences for public health and food security.
Central Asia finds itself at the forefront of this global challenge, experiencing a 1.7-fold increase in temperatures compared to the global average. Over the past five decades, the region has witnessed a drastic 32% reduction in glacier coverage, while diminishing river flows pose significant threats to food and energy security. The scarcity of water resources, coupled with deteriorating land quality and the surge in extreme weather events, exacerbates the vulnerabilities of the region’s inhabitants.
Within the context of Uzbekistan’s ongoing societal and governmental reforms, a shift towards a green economy and robust climate change mitigation strategies has been prioritized. The “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy, aimed at sustainable development, underscores the importance of environmental protection and the expansion of green spaces.
The conference also delved into the crucial issue of financing adaptation measures, exploring avenues to involve the private sector and implement innovative funding mechanisms. At its conclusion, the conference yielded actionable recommendations, including the development of National Adaptation Plans and heightened public awareness campaigns on climate change adaptation measures.
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