REFORMS IN THE TRANSITION TO A GREEN ECONOMY IN UZBEKISTAN:
On the Example of the Strategy for the Transition of the Republic of Uzbekistan to a Green Economy for the Period 2019–2030
Students of Termiz State University of Engineering and Agrotechnologies
Ergasheva Komila To‘ra qizi
Email: komilaergasheva152@gmail.com
Namozova Sarvinoz Erkin qizi
Email: nomozovasarvinoz74@gmail.com
Abstract: The article examines the current problems of transition to a green economy in our country and their solutions using the example of the “Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the transition to a green economy for 2019-2030”. At the same time, it is noted that in the current period, global environmental problems and the limited availability of natural resources and the urgency of their rational use are one of the important directions of our economy.
Key words: Ecological crises, green economy, strategies, sustainable development, industrialization, small business, financial mechanisms, incentive mechanisms, energy efficiency, innovative solutions.
Introduction
Over the past few years, one of the key directions implemented in our country, the results of which are clearly visible in the economy, is the development of the green economy. A green economy is an approach aimed at promoting environmental development, improving ecological conditions, and ensuring sustainable growth without harming the environment.
In order to give special attention to this sector, the Strategy for the Transition of the Republic of Uzbekistan to a “green” economy for the period 2019–2030 was developed. In particular, the following were defined as the main objectives:
- Increasing energy efficiency and rational use of natural resources through technological modernization and the development of financial mechanisms;
- Introducing “green” criteria based on advanced international standards into priority areas of public investment and expenditure;
- Supporting pilot projects in green economy sectors through the development of state incentives, public-private partnerships, and enhanced cooperation with international financial institutions;
- Developing systems for training and retraining personnel for the green economy by encouraging investment in education and strengthening cooperation with leading foreign educational and research institutions;
- Taking measures to mitigate the negative effects of the ecological crisis in the Aral Sea region;
- Strengthening international cooperation, including through bilateral and multilateral agreements.
Research Methods (Methodology)
This article uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis methods to assess reforms and their effectiveness within the framework of Uzbekistan’s Green Economy Transition Strategy for 2019–2030 (PQ-4477).
The priority areas defined in Uzbekistan’s strategy (energy efficiency, renewable energy share, water resource management) were compared with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG-7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG-13 (Climate Action).
Key Documents:
- Presidential Decrees PQ-4477 (October 4, 2019) and PQ-436 (December 2, 2022);
- Other relevant regulatory documents and concepts, such as the Energy Efficiency Concept in Industrial Sectors.
Strategic goals, indicators (such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and increasing renewable energy share to 30%), and action plans were analyzed in the context of priorities and existing challenges.
Current Progress
Uzbekistan is gradually transitioning to a green economy, and current results confirm this progress.
For example, in 2022:
- Presidential Decree PQ-436 was adopted to improve the effectiveness of reforms aimed at transitioning to a green economy by 2030;
- Strategic documents were approved, including:
- The Green Economy Transition Program until 2030;
- The Energy Efficiency Concept for industrial sectors;
- The Action Plan for green growth;
- A target was set to reduce energy intensity by 20% by 2026 compared to 2022;
- The Interagency Council on green economy coordination was updated;
- A Donor Coordination Group was established;
- A project office (Technical Secretariat) was created under the Ministry of Economic Development and Poverty Reduction.
Additionally, in cooperation with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), a public policy loan program was implemented, under which €150 million was allocated to Uzbekistan’s state budget.
Target Indicators (by 2030)
| Direction | Target |
|---|---|
| Greenhouse gas reduction | 35% reduction (compared to 2010) |
| Renewable energy share | 30% of electricity production |
| Industrial energy efficiency | At least 20% improvement |
| Energy intensity of GDP | 30% reduction |
| Water-saving technologies | 1 million hectares coverage |
| Green areas expansion | Increase by 30% |
| Waste management | 600 collection points |
Research Results and Discussion
The results show that Uzbekistan has achieved significant progress in strengthening institutional foundations and reforming the energy sector.
The adoption of PQ-436 and the restructuring of coordination mechanisms demonstrate strong political will and improved international cooperation.
In the energy sector:
- A target of 30% renewable energy share by 2030 was set;
- Industrial energy intensity is planned to decrease by 20%.
However, achieving these goals requires substantial investment, making financial support—such as the €150 million AFD loan—crucial.
Despite progress in public-private partnerships and international investment, the absence of mechanisms such as carbon pricing remains a challenge that may slow down the green transition.
Environmental priorities include:
- Mitigating the Aral Sea crisis;
- Implementing water-saving technologies on 1 million hectares.
These are critical for Uzbekistan’s socio-economic stability given limited water resources.
Conclusion
One of the major global economic problems today is the unequal distribution of resources such as water, soil, and natural energy. A significant share of resource consumption belongs to developed countries, highlighting the need for global action.
We believe that:
- International organizations in health, food security, and climate research should develop practical proposals for fair resource distribution;
- Negotiations should ensure equitable allocation for both developed and developing countries.
Currently, one in five people worldwide lacks access to sufficient energy, illustrating the urgency of this issue.
Global resource inequality leads not only to economic imbalance but also to ecological degradation, social tensions, and slower sustainable development. Overuse of natural resources by developed countries intensifies water scarcity, soil degradation, and energy shortages, while developing countries struggle to address these challenges independently.
Therefore, strengthening international cooperation for fair and efficient resource use is essential. Expanding joint programs in energy, water supply, ecosystem protection, and food security is necessary.
Strategies developed by international organizations must consider the interests of all countries, especially by improving infrastructure in less developed regions, introducing resource-efficient technologies, and reducing emissions.
Ensuring equal access to energy, promoting renewable energy technologies, and supporting their implementation are crucial for global stability. Since one-fifth of the world’s population still lacks adequate energy access, this places a significant responsibility on the international community.
Joint efforts in addressing these challenges will contribute to building a safe, sustainable, and equitable world for future generations.
References
- Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. PQ-4477 (04.10.2019) – Green Economy Transition Strategy (2019–2030).
- Khashimova S.N. Green Economy textbook. Tashkent: Ma’rifat, 2024.
- Decrees and resolutions of the President of Uzbekistan.
- Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) of Uzbekistan under the Paris Agreement.
- Agreements and reports on green project financing with AFD, World Bank, and EBRD.
- Lex.uz – National legal database.
- President.uz – Official website of the President of Uzbekistan.
- Stat.uz – State Statistics Committee data.