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

Special attention is being given to raising environmental awareness among youth and preventing violations

On May 27, as part of the "Eco-Camp 2025" program in the Bostanlyk district of Tashkent region, a seminar was held focusing on further enhancing environmental awareness among young people, expanding their knowledge, and fostering a sense of responsibility toward nature. The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change, as well as participants from all regions of Uzbekistan.

For reference:  On May 15, 2024, Presidential Resolution No. 181“On the approval of the concept for raising ecological awareness among the population until 2030”  was adopted. The document outlines measures to enhance the ecological knowledge, culture and responsibility of preschool children, school pupils, university students, government employees and the general public. It also includes a series of public awareness campaigns and practical initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable behavior.

During the seminar, Murod Nurmatov, a chief specialist from the Ministry of Ecology, spoke about ecotourism and emphasized the importance of treating nature with care:

“Unfortunately, many people today leave trash in recreational areas. This behavior causes damage not only to the environment but also to rare plant and animal species listed in the Red Book that inhabit these areas. Such actions seriously harm nature. So when you're out enjoying nature, please avoid polluting the environment or causing any damage,” said Murod Nurmatov.

Nodir Jamburbaev, Head of Department at the Ministry, informed participants about types of environmental violations and the corresponding legal consequences:

“Illegal extraction of sand and gravel from water bodies, damage to trees and plants, unauthorized hunting or fishing during restricted periods, littering in public places, and pollution of air and water—all of these actions are subject to administrative or criminal liability under the law. Harsher penalties are applied for harm caused to species listed in the Red Book,” he noted.

The specialist also reported that the Ministry’s State Environmental Supervision Inspectorate regularly conducts monitoring raids to prevent violations and public environmental oversight is actively being introduced:

“If you witness any environmental offense, please report it immediately by calling the Ministry’s hotline: (71) 207-11-07, (71) 207-11-08, 1157 or 1207. You can also send a message, photo, or video via @ecogovuz_bot,” he added.

During the seminar, participants from various regions presented reports on environmental challenges in their local areas and proposed practical solutions. For example, a participant from Bukhara region highlighted the issue of desertification and emphasized the need to expand the planting of drought-resistant species such as saxaul.

Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions and receive expert answers.

For refernce: The "Eco-Camp 2025" officially opened on May 26. The program will continue through June 1 and includes educational seminars, intellectual games, sports and plogging competitions, environmental project presentations, “Ecology Experts” contests, cultural and entertainment activities, meetings with prominent figures, and excursions to historical sites.