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

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Ecology Iskandar Kutbidinov emphasized the significant role of the mahalla in fostering environmental culture among the population. The discussions also focused on strengthening accountability for illegal waste disposal, enhancing public oversight, implementing the “Green Mahalla” concept and reinforcing the role of mahallas in ensuring effective environmental control, along with other pressing environmental issues.

In addition, participants discussed the implementation of the nationwide “Eco-Culture” project, including measures aimed at raising environmental awareness among the public, improving waste management practices, expanding green spaces, developing the environmental education system and encouraging environmentally active citizens.

For reference: within the framework of the nationwide “Eco-Culture” project, 14 green technical schools — one in each region of the country — will be established under Green University. It is planned that these institutions will train 5,000 mid-level specialists in the 2026/2027 academic year, 7,000 in 2027/2028, and 10,000 in 2028/2029. Furthermore, beginning with the 2026/2027 academic year, Green University plans to enroll at least 50 international students, with this figure expected to double in the following academic year. Between 2026 and 2028, the number of specialists obtaining advanced academic degrees in the fields of ecology and climate change is expected to reach 150.

The seminar also featured presentations on preventing environmental violations, expanding green areas across the regions, improving waste management systems and introducing the status of “Eco-Active Citizen.”

Following the event, participants identified priority areas for further action, including promoting environmental culture among youth, improving public attitudes toward the environment, strengthening civic engagement in environmental protection, advancing green initiatives within mahallas, and further reinforcing cooperation between government bodies and civil society institutions.