President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation of proposals on combating desertification, developing the desert economy, and introducing "green city" principles in urban areas.
The presentation discussed plans to elevate the fight against desertification in the country to a new stage in 2026–2030. In particular, it was proposed to establish and restore forests on 1.27 million hectares, and create 16,000 hectares of protective forest plantations in desert, mountain, and foothill areas.
The head of state emphasized that desert areas should be viewed not only as an environmental problem but also as a source of new economic opportunities. To this end, instructions were given to develop the "desert economy," cultivate halophyte plants, establish seed production and nurseries for desert plants, and expand ecological tourism and scientific research.
The presentation also considered issues of strengthening environmental cooperation with Central Asian states, developing a regional strategy to combat desertification by 2040, and expanding joint projects under the "Green Shield" program.
Additionally, the Green Samarkand model was presented to transform the city of Samarkand into a model "green city" in Central Asia.
According to the project, by 2030, it is planned to reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere in the city by 51,200 tons, reduce the amount of PM2.5 and PM10 particles in the air by 50 percent, decrease dust from construction sites by 80 percent, and cut harmful substances from transport by 50 percent.
Furthermore, a special ecological-urban planning regime will be introduced in Samarkand. "Green building" requirements will be mandatory for newly constructed facilities. The plan also includes the purchase of 50 electric buses in the city, the gradual transition of public transport and taxis to electric vehicles by 2030, and the creation of a "green belt" stretching 102.7 kilometers.
Additionally, the implementation of environmental projects is envisaged, such as Zero Waste Samarkand in waste management, Carbon Neutral Samarkand in climate policy, and Green Hotels Samarkand in the tourism sector.
At the conclusion of the presentation, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved the proposals and gave relevant instructions to those responsible for combating desertification, efficient use of land and water resources, strengthening environmental requirements in urban planning, and creating a healthy environment for the population.
