Dialogues on the Sidelines
Erkin Mukhitdinov, Director of the Agency for Increasing Forests and Green Areas and Combating Desertification under the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, outlines the activities of the RESILAND Uzbekistan project.
Interview in Russian
Interview Summary:
The RESILAND Uzbekistan project aims to restore forest landscapes and address key environmental challenges facing the country.
The project is structured around four main components. The first focuses on strengthening the institutional framework of the forestry sector through legislative improvements, the introduction of digital solutions, and capacity building. The second component targets the practical restoration of degraded lands, including the development of agroforestry, establishment of forest and medicinal plant plantations, and measures to combat soil erosion. The third component provides technical support and promotes ecotourism development, including the creation of infrastructure within protected natural areas. The fourth component is dedicated to effective project management and coordination.
Particular emphasis is placed on supporting local communities by creating alternative livelihood opportunities, implementing training programs, and developing forest-based value chains and tourism. These efforts contribute to reducing pressure on natural resources and improving living standards in project areas.
Despite challenges related to the introduction of new approaches and cooperation with international partners, the project is already regarded as an important step toward sustainable development.
A key initiative under the project is the planned establishment of a “Peace Park” in border areas. This initiative is intended to strengthen regional cooperation, highlight shared responsibility for environmental protection, and serve as a symbol of good neighborly relations and environmental partnership.
Interview by Zhanna Khusainova, PR/Communications Consultant/Expert, CAREC.
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The Uzbekistan Resilient Landscape Restoration Project (RESILAND Uzbekistan) is part of the World Bank’s RESILAND CA+ program, aimed at strengthening landscape resilience across Central Asian countries. Similar national and regional activities are also being implemented in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
RESILAND Uzbekistan is implemented by the Agency for Increasing Forests and Green Areas and Combating Desertification under the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, with financial support from the World Bank, PROGREEN, and KWPF.
The Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) implements the regional component of the Uzbekistan Resilient Landscape Restoration Project