Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), has announced the launch of a new joint project titled "Master Planning and Innovative Financial Solutions to Support the Implementation of the ‘Yashil Makon’ Initiative."

The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss the strategic direction and expected outcomes of the project. The project’s goal is to promote sustainable development within the framework of the "Yashil Makon" initiative proposed by the government of Uzbekistan. This initiative aims to transform the country’s environment using ecological and social approaches.

The project involves developing a comprehensive master plan for "Yashil Makon," implementing innovative financial solutions, and creating new sources of income for vulnerable communities and displaced persons in the Surkhandarya region.

Participants were informed about the project’s goals, main components, and timelines. The discussion emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation between the government of Uzbekistan, UNDP, UNECE, UNHCR, and other key partners. The next stages of the project were outlined, along with clear roadmaps detailing specific phases and expected results.

Aziz Abduhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, noted: "The ‘Yashil Makon’ initiative is not just a greening project but a crucial step towards building a sustainable future for every resident of Uzbekistan. We are proud of the financial support from international partners such as UNDP, UNECE, and UNHCR in implementing this significant initiative, which will positively impact both the environment and the economy of our country."

Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, highlighted the importance of partnership for achieving sustainable outcomes: "By restoring degraded lands through large-scale afforestation efforts, we are not only revitalizing ecosystems but also creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities. This initiative represents a path to both ecological sustainability and poverty reduction, providing people with the tools they need to thrive."

Dumitru Lipkanu, Acting UNHCR Representative in Central Asia, stated: "Environmental management is a priority at all stages of UN program development. We strive to contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable natural resource management worldwide, and Uzbekistan is an example of this approach. This project enhances the self-reliance and economic integration of displaced persons and signifies their contribution to host communities in mitigating the impacts of climate change."

The project will utilize innovative approaches to ensure long-term sustainability and alignment with the "Yashil Makon" initiative. Pilot sites for reforestation in Surkhandarya and the establishment of plant nurseries are planned, which will serve as the foundation for restoring green spaces.

The project will involve displaced and vulnerable individuals from local communities, emphasizing their role in climate change mitigation efforts. The possibility of carbon credit trading is also being considered to attract additional resources for the project’s implementation.