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

The awards were presented by Aziz Abdukhakimov, Adviser to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues and Chairman of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change. The badges were awarded to dedicated employees of the Committee, staff members of subordinate organizations and regional divisions, representatives of partner organizations, media professionals and eco-activists.

Opening the ceremony, A. Abdukhakimov emphasized that under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, ensuring environmental security and protecting the environment have become among the key priorities of state policy in recent years. In his remarks, the Chairman noted that Uzbekistan today places particular importance on international cooperation in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

It was also highlighted that Uzbekistan is undertaking extensive efforts to strengthen regional and international environmental cooperation. In particular, the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the international exhibition Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 were successfully held in Samarkand from 31 May to 6 June. These events demonstrated Uzbekistan’s growing role as a platform for the exchange of environmental technologies, investment and international best practices.

A. Abdukhakimov noted that World Environment Day is not only a celebration, but also a shared responsibility toward future generations.

“Protecting nature is not solely the responsibility of government institutions or individual specialists. It is a universal value that should become a way of life for every citizen. The more carefully we protect the environment today, the healthier and more prosperous the future we will leave for generations to come. Therefore, we call on everyone to actively participate in environmental initiatives, treat nature with care and make a meaningful contribution to advancing the goals of our country’s green development,” the Chairman emphasized.

During the ceremony, the “Tabiat Himoyachisi” (“Defender of Nature”) badges were awarded to 62 distinguished employees of the Committee, its subordinate organizations and regional divisions, as well as representatives of partner institutions, the scientific community, cultural organizations, youth and public associations. Among the recipients were representatives of ministries and government agencies, the International Public Foundation Zamin, the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the Institute of Botany of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan, the Council of the “Yosh Ekologlar” Movement, as well as eco-activists and media representatives.

Overall, 169 individuals across the country will receive the “Tabiat Himoyachisi” (“Defender of Nature”) badge this year in recognition of their significant contribution to environmental protection, the promotion of environmental awareness and the advancement of sustainable development principles.