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

The widespread introduction of advanced innovative technologies in forestry and the development of modern nursery production are among the effective ways to achieve these goals. In this regard, the establishment of a modern smart greenhouse facility in the state forestry area specialising in seedling production in Tashkent, in cooperation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), represents an important step forward.

Built on an area of 7 hectares, the facility comprises 14 smart greenhouses where large-sized seedlings with well-developed root systems are being grown in specially designed containers. According to the project’s Chief Engineer, South Korean specialist Dr Li Dok So, the processes of growing seedlings in Uzbekistan and transporting and planting them in mountainous areas have been studied for several years. Over the past decade, Uzbekistan’s culture, natural conditions and environmental characteristics have also been examined.

In addition, research has been conducted into ways of producing high-quality seedlings at the lowest possible cost under Uzbekistan’s conditions and ensuring the successful establishment of trees planted in mountainous areas. The system was initially planned and developed on a trial basis in Korea before being introduced in Uzbekistan.

"Work is currently continuing to develop seedlings adapted to Uzbekistan’s specific conditions. We believe that by the end of the project in 2028, this system will become an effective technology adapted to Uzbekistan’s conditions," the specialist said. "We are also developing specific low-cost methods suited to Uzbekistan’s natural conditions and designed to ensure strong growth and high survival rates for seedlings."

According to specialists, the smart greenhouses offer a number of advantages. First, advanced technological equipment enables significant savings in water consumption. Since the seedlings are grown in specially designed containers rather than directly in the ground, they are generally ready for planting within one year. Automated control systems also reduce the need for manual labour. All processes are managed with the support of specialised software, helping ensure the healthy and high-quality development of the seedlings.

Most importantly, seedlings grown in specialised containers under these conditions can be transported to and planted in mountainous areas much more easily. This, in turn, helps reduce associated costs.

The smart greenhouses are scheduled to become fully operational in October.