Last week, the project office of the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CARECECO) in Turkmenistan signed a memorandum of understanding with the Taze Zaman NGO, which operates in the Lebap province, the eastern region of Turkmenistan. The memorandum is aimed at strengthening the long-term partnership between CARECECO and Taze Zaman in order to improve […]
Uzbekistan’s Eco-Course: Ban on AI-80, New Industrial Restrictions and Mandatory Plastic Recycling
By the end of 2025, Uzbekistan plans to completely abandon the use of AI-80 gasoline, which does not comply with the Euro-4 environmental standard and significantly pollutes the environment. This is reported by the Uz Daily agency. The ban stems from recommendations received from various sources, including the general public, international and local environmental organizations, […]
Kazakhstan Launches New Phase of Aral Sea Greening Project
A new stage of greening of the drained bottom of the Aral Sea launched in Kazakhstan as part of the implementation of a large-scale program to restore the ecosystem of the Aral Sea. The Ministry of Ecology, Geology, and Natural Resources has signed an agreement with the KATCO joint venture, comprising French state-owned Orano Mining […]
New Project to enhance agroecology and land management in Turkmen Aral Sea Region
With the support of various UN structural agencies, Turkmenistan is involved in the implementation of multi–country long-term projects in various agroecological areas: protection of grain from locusts, development of aquaculture, camel farming, ecosystem support and natural solutions in agriculture to enhance the resilience of biodiversity and agricultural production to the effects of climate change, rational […]
Celebrating 95 Years: Contribution of the National Park in Turkmenistan to Wildlife Preservation
Elena Dolgova According to the legislation, in addition to nature reserves, specially protected natural areas also include biosphere reserves, national nature parks, natural recreation areas, state botanical gardens and zoological parks. Last year marked a double celebration, as both the Botanical Garden and the Zoo observed their 95th anniversaries. Established in October 1929 on an […]
Turkmenistan Joins CITES, Strengthening Wildlife Trade Regulation and Conservation in Central Asia
Geneva, 20 November 2024 – The Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) welcomes Turkmenistan as the 185th Party to the Convention. With Turkmenistan’s accession, wildlife trade in CITES-listed species in Central Asia is regulated by CITES provisions, marking a unified approach to conserving biodiversity across […]
Turkmenistan Delegation Engages in Key Dialogues on Water Security and Climate Resilience at OSCE’s 2024 EEDIM
Turkmenistan Delegation participated in the 2024 OSCE Economic and Environmental Dimension Implementation Meeting (EEDIM), reinforcing its commitment to sustainable water governance, regional cooperation, and environmental security in Central Asia. During the meeting’s first session, Turkmenistan’s representative, Mr. Magtymguly Akmyradov, addressed regional challenges and solutions related to equitable water management, advancing frameworks that promote effective climate […]
Central Asian Water Experts Meet to Enhance Cooperation on Water, Energy, Environment and Climate Issues
On October 29-30, 2024, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, the UNRCCA organized a “Expert Meeting on Water, Energy, Environment, and Climate Cooperation in Central Asia” as part of its water project. The meeting brought together representatives from relevant ministries, state agencies, and national and international experts, including those from UNESCO, UNECE, UNAMA, and DPPA, to assess the […]
To protect migratory species of fauna in Turkmenistan
Elena Dolgova On April 12, 2024, during a Cabinet of Ministers meeting, Turkmenistan discussed the possibility of joining a trilateral environmental agreement with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The goal is to protect migratory species of wildlife in Turkmenistan and neighboring regions, particularly the Ustyurt Plateau and the Turkmen Pre-Ustyurt region. Following this discussion, preparations began for […]
At the Forefront of the Environmental Struggle: the Story of Ogulsuray from Dashoguz
Ogulsuray Atayeva, leader of Eco-Durmush, empowers rural women in Dashoguz, building resilience against the impacts of climate change. UNDP Turkmenistan Dashoguz province in Turkmenistan faces significant challenges due to the lingering effects of the Aral Sea crisis and the intensifying impact of climate change. Declining rainfall, water shortages, and land degradation have severely impacted the livelihoods […]
Climate challenges of the Caspian Sea discussed at the European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute of Asian Studies hosted an event dedicated to the current climate challenges facing the Caspian Sea. Representatives of diplomatic missions, international organizations, mass media and analytical centers took part in the discussion. Among the speakers were Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan Vagif Sadigov, CEO of the European Institute for […]
Digital Economy – UNCTAD sounds warning
Digital Economy, of which e-commerce is a vital part, is spreading at breakneck speed. Every country wants to get there soonest and because of the fast developing technologies that define and drive a digital economy, this would remain an ongoing quest for quite some time. — For now, the digital economy is simultaneously a journey […]
Tehran Convention: A Cornerstone for Caspian Cooperation
Since its entry into force in 2007, the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea (Tehran Convention) has been celebrated annually on August 12 as Caspian Day. This observance unites the millions of residents across the five littoral states who share a deep connection through environmental, economic activities, energy, […]
IOM builds national capacities on human mobility management in the context of adaptation to climate change
6 August 2024, Ashgabat – Dashoguz. Senior and mid-level government officials from relevant national institutions at the regional and national level have improved their capacities and understanding of human mobility management in the context of adaptation to climate change in a series of events organized by IOM in Turkmenistan in late July 2024 as part […]
CIS Strengthens Cooperation in Energy, Chemical Industry, and Environmental Protection
The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member countries have agreed to enhance cooperation in energy, chemical industries, and environmental protection. This decision comes after a meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in Ashgabat, where relevant concepts and action plans were approved. These documents were developed taking into account the need to reach […]
UNDP contributes to improving the environmental monitoring system in Turkmenistan Ashgabat
May 14-15, 2024: Within the framework of the joint project of UNDP and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated Green Urban Development in Ashgabat and Avaza”, an educational training was held in Ashgabat on May 14-15, 2024. The training was attended by specialists of the Environmental Control Service laboratories […]
Deserts in Central Asia – Part One
nCa Report There are some 14 territories and areas in Central Asia that are categorized as deserts. Some of them are in this category mainly for technical reasons and one of them should not have existed at all. The total area of deserts in Central Asia comes to about 1.5 million square km. This should […]
RECCA Partners with Turkmenistan NGOs for Environmental Projects
The Regional Environmental Center of Central Asia (RECCA) has signed memoranda of understanding with leading public organizations of Turkmenistan – the Society for the Protection of Nature of Turkmenistan and the Tebigi Kuwwat (Nature’s Energy) enterprise, according to RECCA. “This event opens a new page of cooperation with the civil society of Turkmenistan and provides […]
Foreign office of Turkmenistan will host roundtable on Caspian environmental issues this month
The DPM and foreign minister of Turkmenistan reported during a cabinet meeting on 12 April 2024 that the foreign office will host a roundtable on the Caspian environmental issues in the second half of this month. It would be the first step toward the implementation of the initiative of the president of Turkmenistan for the […]
Туркменистан и XP Up green разработают совместный план действий по обеспечению экологической целостности и повышению эффективности использования нефтяных и газовых месторождений
Туркменская делегация, находясь с визитом в Европейском Союзе, провела ряд важных встреч не только с официальными лицами ЕС, но и с представителями бизнеса, в частности, с генеральным директором компании XP Upgreen, Бартом Вотериксом. XP Upgreen является компанией, которая активно внедряет новейшие европейские технологии в сфере увеличения объема добычи углеводородов, а также направлена на сокращение выбросов […]
Turkmenistan and XP Upgreen to develop joint action plan environmental integrity and enhanced efficiency of oil and gas fields
The Turkmen delegation, while visiting Brussels, held a series of important meetings not only with EU officials but also with business leaders, particularly with Bart Wauterickx, Managing Director of XP Upgreen. XP Upgreen is a company actively implementing the latest European technologies in enhancing hydrocarbon production volumes and aimed at reducing methane emissions, making it […]
Central Asia is a home for over 530 species of birds
April 1 is International Bird Day. More than 530 species of birds live in the countries of Central Asia. More than 200 species are listed in the Red Books of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Among them are the white-eyed duck, the common flamingo, and the black stork, living in the valleys of large […]
Kazakhstan handed over the chairmanship of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development to Tajikistan
On 28 March 2024, Kazakhstan hosted a meeting of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development (ICSD) in Astana, according to the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. Representatives from the environmental ministries of Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) attended the meeting. Additionally, representatives from the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (RECCA), […]
OSCE-Central Asian Meeting in Ashgabat Paves Way for Stronger Climate Action
On 4 March 2024, Ashgabat hosted a forum of the OSCE and Ministers of Environmental Protection of Central Asian countries on issues related to climate change and sustainable development. OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid commented on the outcomes of the meeting in an interview with the Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper. Here are the key points mentioned […]
OSCE and Central Asia held a meeting in Ashgabat on regional cooperation in the field of ecology
On 4 March 2024, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and Central Asian environment ministers convened in Ashgabat to discuss regional ecological cooperation, according to TDH. OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid emphasized the meeting’s significance, highlighting its role in refocusing attention on contemporary environmental challenges. Schmid stressed that primary aspects of climate […]
Green Games of Volunteers held on the Shore of the Geokdepe Lake
On 3 March, as part of the #ForOurPlanet European Union Global Campaign, the European Union (EU) Delegation to Turkmenistan jointly with the Nature Protection Society of Turkmenistan, and “Agama” Mountain Climbing Club, organised the Green Games of Volunteers. The event took place on the shores of Geokdepe Lake and brought together over 100 participants. EU […]
Uzbekistan to suspend operation of polluting businesses with new law
Uzbekistan has strengthened its environmental protection efforts by introducing amendments to key laws. These changes empower authorities to suspend or restrict the operations of businesses that excessively pollute the environment, posing a threat to public health and safety. The President of Uzbekistan signed a law on amendments to the laws “On Nature Protection”, “On protection […]
The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on combating environmental problems in Central Asia
In a crucial step towards tackling the region’s mounting environmental concerns, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution titled “Central Asia facing environmental challenges: fostering regional solidarity for sustainable development and prosperity”. This document, spearheaded by Uzbekistan alongside numerous countries, marks a vital recognition of the dire challenges facing Central Asia. The resolution emphasizes the […]
Turkmenistan to Establish Center for Ozone-Depleting Substance Collection and Disposal
A seminar on Turkmenistan’s implementation of the Montreal Protocol to the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer was held at the Ministry of Environmental Protection. Environmental inspectors from Turkmenistan’s state hydrometeorology and environmental control services attended the seminar, according to the Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper. The seminar presented updated information on the introduction […]
Central Asia Unveils Regional Strategy to Tackle Climate Change
In a significant step towards addressing the escalating climate crisis, the Central Asian countries presented a comprehensive Regional Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change at the UN Climate Summit in Dubai (COP 28). This strategy, unanimously approved by all Central Asian nations, marks a unified front against the region’s growing vulnerability to climate change impacts. […]
The Central Asia Pavilion opens at COP28 in Dubai
On 1 December 2023, the grand opening of the Central Asia Pavilion at the 28th UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP28) took place in Dubai, the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CAREC) reports. The pavilion launch ceremony was attended by representatives of the Central Asian countries, development partners and representatives of civil society. Representative […]
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and UNEP Executive Director discussed Turkmenistan’s international climate initiatives
On 1 December 2023, in Dubai, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Ms.Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UNEP, on the sidelines of the COP28 Conference, TDH reports. The sides expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to discuss topical issues of cooperation in the environmental field. At the […]
2 billion tons of sand and dust, equal in weight to 350 Great Pyramids of Giza, enter the atmosphere every year – warn UN experts
The prevalence of sand and dust storms has intensified worldwide, with human activity contributing to over 25% of these occurrences, according to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Each year, an estimated 2 billion tons of sand and dust enter the atmosphere, a weight equivalent to 350 Great Pyramids of Giza. This alarming trend […]
MFA Turkmenistan and UNEP Discuss Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change
Turkmenistan and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) reaffirmed their commitment to environmental protection and climate change action during an online meeting between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen. The two sides exchanged views on the current agenda of cooperation in the field of ecology, climate change, and environmental protection, […]
Turkmenistan-UNEP MoU signing marks a significant milestone toward the establishment of the Regional Centre for Climate Technology for Central Asia
On November 13, 2023, The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan solidified their commitment to environmental conservation, protection, and sustainable development through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The document was signed by the Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan Mr. Charygeldi Babanyyazov and Ms. Sheila […]
Turkmenistan promotes the introduction of alternatives to ozone-depleting substances
A meeting on the international experience of reducing the consumption of substances regulated by the Montreal Protocol was held at the UN building in Ashgabat. It was attended by representatives of ministries and departments of Turkmenistan, UNIDO, and UNDP. The staff of the Ozone Office under the Ministry of Environmental Protection presented expert assessments of […]
ADB: Narrowing the flood and earthquake risk protection gap in Central Asia
With climate change set to exacerbate the frequency and severity of disaster events, Central Asia and South Asia face a growing risk protection gap. KEY TAKEAWAYS With climate change set to exacerbate the frequency and severity of natural hazards, Central Asia and South Asia face higher risk to lives and livelihoods. Pre-arranged disaster risk financing […]
The Constitution of Uzbekistan Enshrines the Norms of Environmental Law
Boriy Alikhanov, Chairman of the Senate Committee for Development of the Aral Sea Region and Ecology Today our life is undergoing profound qualitative changes. Cardinal reforms are rapidly forming a completely new image of our society. The new edition of our Constitution contains special norms on ensuring environmental rights of citizens, in particular, everyone has the right to […]
Turkmenistan’s Hydrological Monuments: A Journey Through Time and Legends
Elena Dolgova Despite its location in the arid zone, Turkmenistan is rich in hydrological natural monuments. Some are the result of the development of the earth’s crust – these are volcanoes, thermal and mineral springs, others are evidence of the abundance of water in the distant past and the accumulation of flood waters for many […]
Arkadag City of Turkmenistan – official inauguration opens doors for inclusive partnership
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova The Arkadag City of Turkmenistan was formally opened on 29 June 2023. There were several ceremonies throughout the day, led by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to highlight the futuristic and inclusive nature of the City that is designed to serve as the global prototype for a sustainable city. [We have reported […]
Central Asia to consolidate efforts in solving problems of the environment and sustainable development
Astana – Kazakhstan – On September 4-5, 2023, the third meeting of the Advisory Council of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development of Central Asian Countries (ICSD) was held. In his welcoming speech, the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerlan Nysanbayev, stressed the importance of this meeting. “Since its […]
FAO will launch the first water use project in Turkmenistan
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will launch the first technical assistance project in the water sector in Turkmenistan. According to the newspaper “Neutral Turkmenistan”, a project presentation was held in Ashgabat recently, with the participation of FAO experts in land and water management – Carolina Starr, Ivetta Zenina and Viktor […]
International experts discuss the state of the Caspian seal population
Recently, an international webinar “The state of the Caspian seal population in the present and future” was held in a hybrid format. The event was attended by representatives of research centers and experts on biodiversity of five countries of the Caspian region, including Turkmenistan, the newspaper “Neutral Turkmenistan” reports. During the webinar, the results of […]
Iran and Turkmenistan discuss cooperation on tackling dust and sand storms
Iran and Turkmenistan intend to cooperate in the fight against dust and sand storms, which have become more frequent in recent years due to climate change. According to Iran Press, on Tuesday Iraj Heshmati, Deputy of Human Environment at Iran’s Department of Environment, had a video meeting with Babaniyazov Charygeldi, the Minister of Environmental Protection […]
Kazakhstan’s Renewable Energy: A Win-Win for the Economy and the Environment
Against the background of global trends in decarbonization and reduction of the carbon footprint, renewable energy sources (RES) are actively developing in Kazakhstan. In 2013, the Decree of the Head of State approved the Concept for the transition of the Republic of Kazakhstan to a “green economy”. It lays the foundations for deep systemic transformations […]
European Union – Central Asia High-Level Conference: joining efforts for climate action and green transition
24.02.2023 Rome, Italy – More than 100 delegates gathered in Rome on 23-24 February 2023 for the 7th European Union – Central Asia High-Level Conference on Environment and Water Cooperation (Conference). Ministers, deputy ministers, high-level diplomats of the countries of Central Asia (CA), the European Union (EU), the EU Member States, representatives of international financial […]
Turkmenistan Outlines Climate Change Initiatives to Boost Global Cooperation
During the government meeting on Thursday, 31 Aug 2023, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rashid Meredov reported on the steps taken to develop international cooperation of Turkmenistan in the field of climate change. One of the main pillars of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy is to expand constructive partnerships with countries and international organizations […]
Turkmenistan to host International scientific and practical conference “Energy perspectives, new technologies and environmental aspects in the development of hydrocarbon resources”
International scientific and practical conference “Energy perspectives, new technologies and environmental aspects in the development of hydrocarbon resources” will be held at Yagshygeldi Kakayev International Oil and Gas University in Ashgabat on 15 June. The organizers of the forum are Turkmenistan’s national energy companies and Turkmen Forum. The primary focus of the conference will be […]
Туркменистан выступает за сотрудничество по разрешению региональных и глобальных экологических проблем
В ходе своего выступления на 13-ом Форуме сотрудничества «Центральная Азия-Корея» в онлайн формате Министр иностранных дел Туркменистана изложил позицию Туркменистана по экологической тематике. Как известно экологическая безопасность является одним из ключевых векторов взаимодействия в рамках Форума сотрудничества «Центральная Азия-Корея». Туркменистан рассматривает охрану окружающей среды в качестве одного из важнейших направлений государственной политики Туркменистана. Это проявляется […]
Turkmenistan advocates cooperation in resolving regional and global environmental problems
During his speech at the 13th Central Asia-Korea Cooperation Forum in an online format, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan outlined the position of Turkmenistan on environmental issues. As is known, environmental safety is one of the key vectors of interaction within the framework of the Central Asia-Korea Cooperation Forum. Turkmenistan considers environmental protection […]