The Importance of Ecology in Uzbekistan

Introduction

Ecology is a crucial branch of science that deals with the relationships between living organisms and their environment. In Uzbekistan, a country located in Central Asia with a diverse natural landscape that includes deserts, mountains, rivers, and fertile valleys, ecology plays a vital role in ensuring sustainable development, public health, and environmental protection. The importance of ecology in Uzbekistan has grown significantly in recent years due to the increasing threats posed by climate change, desertification, water scarcity, and industrial pollution. This article explores the ecological situation in Uzbekistan, the key challenges, and the measures taken to improve environmental sustainability in the country.

Ecological Diversity and Natural Resources of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is rich in biodiversity and natural resources. It is home to more than 27,000 species of flora and fauna, including some endangered species like the Bukhara deer and the Saiga antelope. The country’s landscape includes the Kyzylkum Desert, the Tien Shan and Pamir mountain ranges, and the fertile Fergana Valley. Major rivers like the Amu Darya and Syr Darya have traditionally supported agriculture and human settlements.

However, these natural resources are under threat due to poor environmental management in the past, excessive water usage for agriculture, deforestation, and overgrazing. The Aral Sea crisis is one of the most tragic ecological disasters in the world and a major example of how mismanagement of resources can lead to long-term environmental damage. Once the fourth-largest inland sea in the world, the Aral Sea has almost completely dried up due to the diversion of its feeding rivers for cotton irrigation. This has led to increased salinity, dust storms, loss of biodiversity, and negative health impacts on the local population.

Climate Change and Its Impact

Climate change is one of the most pressing ecological issues in Uzbekistan. The country is experiencing rising temperatures, reduced precipitation, and an increase in extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves. These changes have a direct impact on agriculture, which is a key sector of the Uzbek economy. Cotton and wheat, two major crops, are particularly vulnerable to water shortages and changing weather patterns.

Moreover, climate change is accelerating desertification. Large areas of formerly arable land are turning into deserts due to overuse, lack of proper irrigation techniques, and high soil salinity. According to environmental experts, more than 60% of Uzbekistan’s territory is affected by desertification, which poses a serious threat to food security, rural livelihoods, and ecological balance.

Water Management Issues

Water scarcity is another significant ecological challenge in Uzbekistan. As a double landlocked country with a mostly arid climate, Uzbekistan depends heavily on the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers for its water supply. However, due to inefficient irrigation systems, outdated infrastructure, and transboundary water disputes with neighboring countries, water availability remains limited and poorly managed.

In some regions, the salinity of water has increased to dangerous levels, affecting both agriculture and public health. Groundwater depletion is also a growing concern, especially in the western regions like Karakalpakstan, where people face severe water shortages. Addressing water-related ecological problems requires better international cooperation, modern irrigation techniques, and water-saving technologies.

Air and Soil Pollution

Uzbekistan faces serious air and soil pollution problems, especially in urban and industrial areas. Cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Navoi are experiencing increased air pollution due to the rise in vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and coal-based energy production. In rural areas, the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has degraded soil quality and affected the ecosystem. The legacy of the Soviet-era industrial policies has left behind numerous polluted sites and untreated waste. For example, uranium mining in the past has caused radioactive contamination in some regions. Improper waste disposal and lack of recycling programs further worsen the situation. These problems not only harm the environment but also pose a direct threat to the health of the population.

Government Policies and Environmental Reforms

In recent years, the government of Uzbekistan has recognized the importance of environmental protection and has taken several steps to improve the ecological situation. In 2017, the State Committee for Ecology and Environmental Protection was established to coordinate national efforts for environmental monitoring, protection, and policy implementation. Several environmental laws and strategies have been adopted, including the Strategy for the Transition to a Green Economy (2019–2030).

The government has also launched afforestation campaigns to combat desertification and dust storms. Millions of trees have been planted, especially in the dried-up Aral Sea bed. Projects to improve waste management, promote renewable energy, and modernize water usage are being implemented with the support of international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, and European Union.

Eco-Education and Public Awareness

Another essential aspect of ecological improvement in Uzbekistan is raising environmental awareness among the population. Eco-education is being integrated into the school curriculum, and environmental NGOs are working to educate citizens about recycling, water conservation, and sustainable living. Programs such as “Eco-Schools Uzbekistan” are helping students and teachers become active participants in environmental protection.

Public campaigns, community clean-up events, and green projects are helping to build a culture of environmental responsibility. The increasing use of digital platforms and media to spread ecological messages has also contributed to greater awareness, especially among the youth.

International Cooperation and Future Outlook

Uzbekistan is actively cooperating with international partners to tackle environmental challenges. The country is a member of several global environmental agreements, including the Paris Climate Agreement, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Cross-border cooperation on water resource management with countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan is also critical for regional stability and sustainability.

Looking ahead, Uzbekistan must continue to prioritize ecology in its development agenda. This includes investing in clean energy, enforcing environmental regulations, supporting scientific research, and empowering local communities to participate in conservation efforts. A holistic, inclusive approach that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability will ensure a healthier and more prosperous future for the country.

Conclusion

Ecology is not just an academic subject or a policy issue — it is a matter of survival and prosperity. In Uzbekistan, where the environment directly affects agriculture, health, and the economy, protecting ecological balance is more important than ever. The challenges are many, but so are the opportunities. Through informed policy-making, community engagement, and international cooperation, Uzbekistan can build a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

My name is Shabbona Abdurashidova, daughter of Umidjon, a passionate and ambitious student born on February 22, 2009, in Chinaz district, Tashkent Region, Uzbekistan! 

I currently study at School No. 20. I have earned several educational grants and awards, and I attented  Eco-IT camp and Central Asia youth Eco camp

With a deep interest in leadership, public speaking, and writing, I continue to work hard toward achieving academic excellence and inspiring others in my community.

Forming a sense of patriotism through travel

Jumaniyozova Nazokat Alim kizi

2nd year Tourism and Hospitality student

Abstract: This article discusses the development of the tourism sector in our country and the formation of a sense of patriotism among the population. We all know that the future begins with history. Therefore, we need to form a sense of patriotism in the minds of young people. There are many historical places in our country, each of which holds a unique meaning. Is it possible to form a sense of patriotism through travel? -Of course, because through travel, you can explore not only historical places, but also the miraculous nature and culture of our heavenly country. This awakens a sense of gratitude in us, because our country is so peaceful and prosperous that we witness a miracle wherever we go. Therefore, we need to create opportunities for travelers in our country and create amenities for those who do not have the opportunity.

Keywords: Travel, reforms, patriotism, historical and cultural sites, youth engagement.

The article discusses the problems of forming a sense of patriotism through travel and their solutions. Today, there is a low level of deep understanding of real historical places, national heritage and values ​​of the country among young people. The concept of patriotism is often perceived as theoretical knowledge, and there are few cases of feeling it with the heart.

Also:

Young people’s travel opportunities are limited.

School and college trips are based solely on formality.

There is not enough interest in local tourism.

Parents do not travel with their children, instead they pay too much attention to their phones and social networks. Or they do not have enough money for travel. Travel depends on two things: time and money. Because working people usually do not have time to travel, or even if they do have time, they do not have enough opportunities to travel. Another problem is the lack of interest in historical places among young people. They mainly want to go on extreme and entertainment trips. Therefore, the majority of visitors to historical and cultural places are older people. Below we will find solutions to these problems:

1. Strengthening domestic tourism – Systematically organizing excursions to the historical, cultural and natural attractions of our country. In particular, annual travel plans should be introduced in schools, colleges and universities.

2. Organize trips in an educational direction – During each trip, a sense of patriotism can be awakened by sharing information about the history of the country, stories about local heroes, and historical monuments.

3. Creating a youth movement under the slogan “See the beauties of the homeland with your own eyes” – encouraging young people to promote their country on social networks, introducing tourist attractions of Uzbekistan through photos and short videos.

4. Creating a culture of family travel – Parents traveling with their children instills in them a sense of love and appreciation for their country early on.

5. The “Patriotic Path” project – Targeted trips to historical sites in each region, commemorative events, cultural evenings, and meetings with local heroes should be organized.

Through these, it is possible to interest young people in historical and cultural places and thus form a sense of patriotism through travel. Every young and old person should love and protect their homeland.

List of used literature:

1. Mirziyoyev Sh.M. “New Uzbekistan – the realization of the dream of the people and the homeland.” – T.: Uzbekistan, 2022.

2. Karimov IA “High spirituality is an invincible force.” – T.: Ma’naviyat, 2008.

3. “Tourism and Youth Education” – Publication of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 2021.

4. “Domestic tourism is a source of national pride” – “History of Uzbekistan” magazine, 2023, issue 1.

5. Ziyovuddinov M. “Patriotic Education and Modern Approaches” – T.: Teacher, 2020.

6. www.ziyonet.uz – Lesson plans on patriotism and tourism

7. Resolutions and decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on youth (2021–2024)

Jumaniyozova Nazokat Olim qizi was born in Tuproqqala district of Khorezm region. Currently, I am a 2nd year student at the Surkhandarya regional Denov Entrepreneurship and Pedagogical Institute, majoring in tourism and hospitality.

Thief

“Theft is not good for the body”, Proverb

The morning light illuminated the edge of the yard, and Ravshan aka, as always, headed for the barn. Carrying a bundle of hay in his hand, he entered the roof. But… he couldn’t believe his eyes: the yellow cow was gone!

“Maybe it got loose and wandered around the yard,” he consoled himself. But no matter how much he searched, he couldn’t find it. It was as if there was no trace, it had disappeared.

“Jamila!” he called out anxiously. “Who tied the cattle yesterday?”

Jamila answered in a low voice:

“Lutfulla dad, I tied them. But… there’s no cow?”

At that moment, Rustam Baba appeared at the door of the yard. His face was worried, and his eyes were filled with sadness.

“Did you hear that?!” A thief has appeared in the village!

— Oh no! — said Lutfulla. — They stole Akmal’s five chickens!

— Astagfirullah! — said Ravshan aka with a heavy sigh. Could it be that our cow has also fallen into the hands of thieves! They say that thieves are masters of their craft…

Lutfulla looked at the ground and whispered:

— Dad, not even a fly can enter our yard! How can a thief get in? After all, an ox’s jawbone is hung above the tandoor. If a person enters, he will immediately be thrown into the eye…

— Now is not the time for this! — said Ravshan aka, getting angry. The cow that trusted me with my secrets will not come back!

— More stings, hot peppers, eye thorns… — Jamila glared sharply at Lutfulla again. — These protect the yard from misfortunes. Our grandmothers have repeatedly warned us. Oh, don’t interfere in something you don’t understand.

— Ravshan aka, who locked the gate yesterday? — Jamila asked again.

Then Robiya slowly approached:

— Excuse me… I forgot. When I woke up in the morning, the gate was open. I couldn’t say that my brothers had gone out for a run with their friends…

Rustam Baba, he started talking again.

— Someone stole your cow. But don’t rush: someone has been watching your house for a long time, someone did it… They say, “It’s easy to catch a thief from the field, but it’s hard to catch a thief from home.”

Then she turned to Jamila:

— Jamila, hurry up and go to the police station. Only someone who knows would have done this.The morning had not yet dawned, the night was still hanging over the earth, and it was drifting over the village like heavy thoughts. Jamila Yanga, with the anxiety that was tearing at her heart, set off for Sister Zulfiya’s yard. The gentle breeze on the street caressed her face, intensifying the wind of anger in her heart. Sister Zulfiya’s yard was already full of people, everyone was filling their patience cup with their own problems. Jamila Yanga waited. Her legs were shaking, her heart was pounding. Finally, the door opened with a “clack”…

— Ola stole your cattle… your own relative, — said the policeman, breaking the silence that reigned in the yard. — He has been watching you for a month. The day your gate was left open, he accomplished his intention. Now he will sell the cattle to someone who came from Karachay at the Wednesday market. If you don’t believe me, go with your husband and see for yourself. Now, leave your vows and leave.

Jamila Yanga’s heart sank, and the blood drained from her face. She went out into the street and whispered in a daze:

— Really? My own liver, the one I support… How many people have we troubled for this cow… What if her father hears this?

— No, no… — she said to herself. — It’s not for nothing that they say, “A person who steals a needle or loses a cow from someone is suspected”…

The next morning, Ravshan aka and his son Lutfulla set off for the cattle market. They both scattered in two directions and began to look for the cattle.

— Dad, what if what the polvin said turns out to be true?

 — Never mind, my son. If it’s true, this will be the day when the earth will crack and we will be buried. We can’t walk with our heads held high.

In a far corner of the market, Ravshan aka saw a young man holding a cow tightly next to someone who had come from Karacha. He approached cautiously. His instincts were right — it was Jamila Yanga’s nephew.

— This cow is mine. I’m sorry, it’s not for sale. Get out of here quickly! — Ravshan aka said, swallowing his anger.

Lutfulla ran over when he saw his father leading the cattle.

— Dad! Did you find the thief?

— Yes, I did.

— Then show me?

— It’s better that you don’t know you, my son…

— Dad, how many people have we bothered…

— What can I say now? Should I say that my wife’s nephew was stolen? Let the closed pot remain closed.

— Dad, he will be caught one day anyway. Even if you hide it, he will steal again. There is no use in hiding it!

Ravshan aka looked at his son with love. Suffering and the heavy burdens accumulated over the years were visible in his eyes.

— You are still young, my son. One day, you will understand what I have done, — he said, frowning.

When they returned home, Shukr Baba had already arrived, sipping tea. He seemed to have noticed everything.

— But your goods were found in the market. Who stole them? You had half the village investigated. You took up people’s time. You shamelessly suspected even young men who were strangers and came from abroad… Tell me, who was the thief?

Ravshan aka averted his eyes and answered with difficulty:

— I am very tired, Shukr Baba…

— Understandable, so my suspicions were correct. That’s it, be healthy. From now on, don’t forget the gate lock. After all, they say, “The copper of a copper pot will come out, and the smell of the one who closes it will come out.” Everything will be exposed one day anyway.

And Lutfulla, with a broken heart, apologized to all his fellow villagers…

…Six months passed.

While someone was untying the rope of a black ox in the dark courtyard of Zarif aka, who lived in the village of Kiyokli, the owner’s son Azamat caught him and handed him over to the police. This was the same man – Jamila Yanga’s nephew. He swallowed hard and confessed to all the thefts he had committed.

— This is probably what it means when a thief steals and sets off on a journey, and in the end he gets caught…

That day, Shukr Baba said this at a neighborhood meeting:— Ravshanjon kept the secret for six months, but the truth was still revealed. Ravshan deceived so many people. However, the thief was his brother-in-law’s son. Because always be careful of the person who enters and exits your house… It’s not for nothing that they say, “Hold on to yourself, don’t hold your neighbor a thief” _ Shukr Baba…

Abdisattorova Khurshida Suvon qizi was born on November 9, 1997, in the village of Olmazor, Chirakchi district, Kashkadarya region. She is currently a third-year student of Sports Journalism at the University of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Her articles have been published in the newspapers Hurriyat and Vaziyat, as well as on the websites Olamsport and Ishonch. She is also a participant of the international scientific-practical conference titled “Future Scientist – 2025.”

Motivation

If a person sets one goal in their life, no force can stop them….

1. The goal is to never give up.

2. The goal is to not forget the initial goal.

You tried to do something… But it didn’t work out… it didn’t work out, never complain, be patient. Every failure should encourage you. Get up and try. The result will be better than you expected.

We know that no matter how big the door is, it can be opened, and this is, of course, an effort. You should achieve such success that those around you will talk about your victories, not yourself. Only then will your willpower and effort develop even more…

Throughout my career, my students have asked me one question a lot.

—Teacher, who and what inspires you the most?

— I can get motivation from everyone and everything.

But throughout my career, there are magic words that wake me up every morning and help me teach my students…

Excuse me, if necessary, your colleague, who you have worked with for thirty years, sometimes rushes through the school threshold, even when the distance between you is only 10-15 meters, saying, “Okay, I’ll see you when I get inside,” but he’s waiting for me, he’s always waiting, now and in the future…

You might be wondering, what are these words? These are magical and shining words like the sun…

The words “WELCOME” written on the forehead of our school…

Tashkent region. Piskent district. Primary school teacher of secondary school No. 14 ASHIROVA DILRABO ERMATOVNA.

Sean Lee is an emerging artist whose work spans drawing, photography, and cartooning, focusing on themes of stress relief and emotional expression. Sean’s art channels personal experiences, offering visual narratives that resonate with viewers seeking solace and connection. When not creating, Sean is an avid rower, having been part of a rowing team since seventh grade, where teamwork and physical discipline fuel his creativity and balance his daily life.

Dissipate

An orange glow emanates

from the entrance of a cave

wavering heat reaches

its threatening tendrils out 

in hunger, disappearing

The wall of a fallen castle

broken shell of the past

dust settles around the 

decaying wooden floor, the rough

concrete bumps tickle my fingertips

A small well with a bottomless pit

only darkness obstructs what lies within

once in a while, the wisps

will soar into the sky

then dissipate.

Decompose

Sitting alone at my desk

my head resting on my arms

I close my eyes and isolate

the hum of air conditioning

The buzz transforms into cymbals of waves

crashing onto the grainy sand ashore

The sun radiates with exhausting heat

in the freezing water, my feet submerged

keeps my subconscious at bay

I take a moment to behold the scene

one I will never truly see

the bells signal class, and the seagulls

caw their goodbyes as my vision blurs

back to the disappointing scene I started from.

Shedding Non-existent Tears

Supposedly, an everyday morning

the same repetitive routine

Wake up, then take a cup

pour a glass of milk for the morning

It was no special action

just my hand sped too far

but once it started, it never stopped falling

till the glass lay flat on the table

the ringing bell constricted my heart

cause no matter what, I could only have

one cup of milk for every morning

nothing less, and nothing more

I look upon the white liquid

finding crevices on the wooden floor

A forgiving voice whispers in my head

it was bound to happen someday

but the more I stared at the mess I made

the greater wider the hole in my stomach became

so with a disappointed sigh, I wiped the mess

and left with just an empty stomach

Austin Chung is a diligent high school student thriving in the bustling city of Seoul, South Korea. Passionate about his education and driven by curiosity, he is meticulously crafting his portfolio, eagerly seeking opportunities to showcase his talents and achievements. With a keen eye for detail and a hunger for knowledge, Austin is poised to make a significant impact in his academic journey and beyond.

I am the child of my Uzbek.

I am the child of the Uzbek,

The beloved of this country.

I live in this homeland, I serve the people. 

In the future, I will certainly, Become a poetess.

I will only raise the flag of my country, To the skies.

I will weave poems, 

I will enrich my country.

With my beautiful poems, 

I will become known to the countries.

I will write such poems, 

That will make the world tremble. The earth and sky, to the world, Sprinkling a peaceful light.

 I draw inspiration from the fruit of the tree, 

These poems will give balm to the heart.

Zumrad Sobirova Tohir qizi was born on April 5, 2007 in the Altinkul neighborhood of Yangibazar district of Khorezm region. She graduated from secondary school No.12 in the district with a gold medal. In addition, she participated in various competitions and festivals and achieved several successes. She received 100% certificates in general education subjects in Mother Tongue and Literature, 77% in History, and B2 level certificates in Foreign Language. She took an honorable 3rd place in the Essay Competition at the regional stage. She took an honorable 1st place in the most beautiful calligraphy category at the “Uzbek Woman” festival. She also works in poetry and prose. Her poems are reflected in the books “Ilm va ijod bo’stoni” and “Ko’zgudagi men”. In her free time, she reads fiction books. I have set main goals for myself and work hard every day to achieve them. I believe that good intentions and relentless pursuit will lead me to my dreams!