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

The forum brought together representatives of government agencies, businesses, academia, and non-governmental organizations from across Central Asia. Its main objective was to establish a regional platform for discussing key issues of industrial ecology and sustainable development. Particular attention was given to the introduction of best available techniques (BAT), the digitalization of environmental processes, the development of waste management systems, and strengthening the role of NGOs in ensuring transparency and engaging civil society.

Speaking at the plenary session, Minister’s Advisor Alisher Salomov emphasized that under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan is implementing large-scale reforms aimed at building a green economy and ensuring the rational use of natural resources.

“Uzbekistan has declared 2025 as the Year of Environmental Protection and the Green Economy, underscoring the priority of the environmental agenda. A state program has been adopted, covering environmental protection, waste management, the development of green energy, and the introduction of ESG standards. Our goal is to increase the share of waste recycling to 60% and the share of green energy to 54% by 2030,” noted A. Salomov.

He also spoke about the establishment of the Agency for Waste Management and Circular Economy Development, the introduction of the electronic billing system "Toza Makon", which now serves more than 23 million residents, as well as projects to build modern waste-to-energy plants with the support of international investors. He placed special emphasis on Uzbekistan’s accession to the Aarhus Convention in March 2025 and on the active promotion of environmental awareness among the population through nationwide campaigns and community actions.

In conclusion, A. Salomov invited forum participants to attend Eco Expo Central Asia 2026, which will take place in Samarkand within the framework of the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility.

The forum program also included an industrial tour to regional enterprises implementing green technologies, as well as an exhibition of innovative environmental solutions. During the plenary session, “Ecology and Production: The Path to a Sustainable Future”, discussions focused on balancing economic growth with environmental safety, the role of major companies in advancing ecological initiatives and the achievement of global and national sustainability goals.

The Pavlodar forum served as an important regional platform for exchanging experience and developing joint solutions in industrial ecology. Uzbekistan’s participation underscored its proactive role in advancing green transformation, developing the circular economy and fostering international cooperation in the field of environmental protection.