Issues related to the establishment of a modern air quality laboratory discussed in cooperation with the World Bank

During the meeting, the active role of the World Bank in supporting Uzbekistan’s environmental reforms was underlined. It was noted that transforming the Ministry of Ecology into the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change opens a new chapter in implementing national environmental and climate programs.

Particular attention was given to the implementation of the updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0). Uzbekistan has announced enhanced climate commitments — reducing greenhouse gas emissions per unit of GDP by 50% by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The Chair highlighted that the next stage is a shift from ambitious targets to practical implementation through concrete, financeable projects.

One of the key issues discussed was air quality in Tashkent, where PM2.5 concentrations significantly exceed the recommendations of the World Health Organization. The parties reviewed possible measures to reduce emissions, including the modernization of industrial filtration systems, reforming the monitoring and reporting framework and integrating environmental requirements into urban planning and transport policies.

An important proposal from the Uzbek side was the establishment of the first modern air quality laboratory in Central Asia, based at the Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University). The laboratory would enable advanced analysis of pollutants, identification of emission sources, calibration of monitoring equipment and the development of science-based recommendations for protecting public health. The project is estimated at approximately USD 1 million and could be implemented in partnership with the World Bank.

The parties also discussed the development of Green University as a key national educational and research center in ecology and climate science. The discussions covered the potential creation of joint educational programs, the introduction of innovative solutions and the use of the university as a platform for regional knowledge exchange.

At the end of the meeting, the Uzbek side invited Sameh Wahba to participate in upcoming major international events — Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 and the 8th GEF Assembly in Samarkand. Both sides reaffirmed their readiness to strengthen cooperation and jointly advance sustainable development and climate resilience in Uzbekistan.