Ministry of Ecology, environmental protection and climate change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

During the event, the delegation presented updates on preparations for the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, to be held in Samarkand. Special emphasis was placed on adherence to environmental standards and the principles of sustainable development. Uzbekistan is actively promoting a “green” agenda and positioning itself as a platform for major international events, including the Samarkand Climate Summit, the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP14), the 21st session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD CRIC21), and the upcoming 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES COP20).

Particular attention was given to the jointly developed UNESCO-Uzbekistan “Green Action Plan” — the first document of its kind aimed at achieving climate neutrality for the General Conference. The plan includes the use of sustainable infrastructure, elimination of single-use plastics, digital distribution of materials, eco-friendly catering and reliance on renewable energy sources.

An initiative was also presented to create a “Green Park,” where each delegate will be invited to plant a tree near the conference venue — a symbolic gesture reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

During meetings with UNESCO Secretariat representatives, proposals were discussed to further enhance the Green Action Plan, including the introduction of electric transport, expansion of water-saving technologies, and mechanisms for carbon offsetting.

The parties also agreed to integrate a UNESCO-developed emissions data collection form into a monitoring system coordinated by the Uzbek side. This will enable an accurate assessment of the event’s carbon footprint and contribute to the achievement of climate neutrality.

The delegation’s participation marked another step in strengthening cooperation between Uzbekistan and UNESCO and advancing the global environmental agenda.