- Uzbekistan aims to cut emissions intensity by 50% by 2035.
- The country expands renewable energy and environmental programs.
Uzbekistan has unveiled a significant climate commitment as it strengthens its environmental agenda. The government announced a new Uzbekistan greenhouse gas target, which aims to reduce emissions per unit of GDP by 50% by 2035 compared with 2010 levels. The pledge reflects growing concern across Central Asia, and the message resonated strongly during the UN Climate Change Conference in Belém, Brazil.
Ecology Minister Aziz Abduhakimov delivered the announcement while outlining the challenges facing the region. Temperatures across Central Asia have already risen by 2.2°C, and glaciers continue to lose around 0.5% of their volume each year. These shifts create severe pressure on water availability and land quality. The minister stressed that these conditions demand decisive action.
Consequently, Uzbekistan has strengthened its nationally determined contribution. The updated NDC places the Uzbekistan greenhouse gas target at the centre of national planning. The government plans to push large-scale investments in renewable energy, and these investments include solar, wind, and hydropower projects. The country will also expand forested land to stabilise ecosystems and reduce desertification.
Additionally, Uzbekistan plans to modernise waste management systems to limit methane leakage. The minister explained that better waste collection and improved recycling processes will support long-term climate goals. He also highlighted the Green University initiative, which aims to create research centres that train young professionals in sustainable solutions. A regional centre to combat desertification is also under development, and it will support knowledge-sharing across Central Asia.
Towards the end of his address, Abduhakimov invited delegates to the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility and the Eco Expo Central Asia exhibition. Both events will take place in Samarkand from 31 May to 5 June 2026. He argued that these gatherings will accelerate regional cooperation and build stronger environmental partnerships.
Greenhouse gases remain a central issue in global climate discussions. These gases trap heat and include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, and several industrial chemicals regulated under the Paris Agreement. Their rising concentrations continue to threaten climate stability, which places even more importance on national measures such as Uzbekistan’s current pledge.