National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Jens Wunderlich is one of the leading European specialists in the conservation of Central Asian desert ecosystems. From 2017 to 2023, he coordinated the Central Asian Desert Initiative (CADI), under which preparations were carried out for the inclusion of the cold winter deserts of Turan in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List. He has also actively advanced cooperation with Uzbekistan, participating in the digitalization of the National Herbarium (TASH) and in the development of the national strategy under the Ramsar Convention.

Wunderlich made a significant contribution to strengthening the region’s scientific potential by supporting scholarships for young specialists from Central Asia to study at the University of Greifswald. His expert work in protected area planning, remote sensing, and desert ecology has made him a key international partner of Uzbekistan in matters of nature conservation.

Yens Wunderlich was awarded the “Defender of Nature” badge for his outstanding contribution to the conservation of Uzbekistan’s natural heritage and for advancing international cooperation in the protection of desert ecosystems. His efforts have helped strengthen the country’s scientific capacity and promote its natural sites on the global stage.