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

In his welcoming speech, the Deputy Minister noted the positive process of radical transformation not only of the Ministry of Ecology but also of the entire complex of environmental protection in the country, as well as a new article in the Constitution of Uzbekistan on the right of every person to a favorable environment and reliable information about its condition.

During the meeting, delegates were provided with information on several environmental initiatives implemented under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, including the national project "Yashil Makon", a campaign for afforestation on the bottom of the Aral Sea on an area of 2 million hectares, the creation of the Climate Council under the President of Uzbekistan and the National Center for Climate Change under the Ministry of Ecology.

The Uzbek side presented the first rating of environmental sustainability of cities in Uzbekistan—UUzbekistan's Green Cities Rating, which evaluates 14 administrative centers of the country according to seven priority groups of indicators: air quality, water consumption, land use, transport, energy, waste, and sanitation. It was also noted that the Ministry has set a task in the next two years to introduce 213 new environmental norms and standards in various sectors in order to improve the environmental condition in cities and villages in various areas, including housing issues. 

In turn, B. Rajagopal positively assessed the ongoing reforms in the field of ecology and noted the high pace of construction in the republic, pointing out the need to increase the efficiency of using sustainable materials in construction. 

During the negotiations, the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing stressed the importance of synchronous project planning, taking into account social aspects. As it was noted, an important factor is to take into account all the nuances and emerging issues at an early stage, with a special emphasis on ensuring the rights of everyone and using an integrated approach in urban development.

In addition, an initiative was put forward to study the UN Convention on Human Rights, taking into account the climatic accessibility of housing. In this regard, measures are being developed in two main areas: reducing negative impacts and increasing efficiency, increasing the efficiency of the use of building materials and fuels; creating a balance between development and environmental requirements, focusing on clearly defining standards and criteria for housing that take into account climatic conditions and accessibility.

At the end of the meeting, B. Rajagopal stressed the importance of investing in scientific research and creating joint activities to promote these areas.