Uzbekistan faces pressing environmental challenges that have become increasingly urgent with the impacts of climate change and expanding industrial activity, particularly in water resource management, supply and sanitation. Limited water resources, high contamination risks, and disruptions to ecological balance compound water supply issues, with only 54 per cent of the population currently having access to centralized water supply. Furthermore, a significant portion of untreated wastewater is discharged into the environment, leading to serious environmental and social consequences. These challenges demand integrated, comprehensive solutions, with international cooperation playing a vital role in providing expertise and resources to develop effective and sustainable measures.
In 2024, Uzbekistan launched the project "Strengthening action in Uzbekistan on Water and Sanitation and protection of Water Resources from Accidental Pollution in the face of Climate Change," funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by UNECE. The project aims to modernize water resource management and adapt infrastructure to climate risks. It also supports Uzbekistan's fulfilment of international commitments, including the Protocol on Water and Health, which the country joined in 2023, and the Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents.
A key focus of the project is supporting Uzbekistan achieve the SDGs outlined in the 2030 Agenda. SDG 3, which aims to ensure health and well-being for all, underscores the importance of clean water and proper sanitation in maintaining public health. Adherence to water supply and wastewater disposal standards help mitigate the risk of various disease outbreaks. In regions with high concentrations of mining enterprises, where water pollution poses a significant challenge, the project contributes to achieving SDG 6 by enhancing access to clean water and improving water quality and sanitation.
The project also prioritizes preventing industrial accidents and accidental water pollution, particularly in the context of Uzbekistan's rapidly expanding mining sector. The growing number of tailings storage facilities pose serious risks to both environmental safety and public health. To address these concerns, the project introduces monitoring systems for the safety of tailings storage and water bodies, develops emergency response plans for industrial sites, strengthens regulatory frameworks, and provides training for enterprise staff and government agencies. These measures contribute to the achievement of SDG 9 and SDG 12, promoting sustainable industrialization while minimizing waste-related impacts on waste on water resources.
The project also focuses on climate change adaptation, aligning with SDG 13. Uzbekistan, like many other Central Asian countries, is already experiencing the consequences of climate change, including frequent droughts and dwindling water resources. The project supports adaption of water supply infrastructure to meet evolving climate conditions and promotes efficient water use, particularly in agriculture, which remains a cornerstone of the economy. Project experts are introducing technologies to significantly reduce water losses during irrigation, enhancing both water conservation and efficiency in agricultural practices.
A critical component of the project is raising awareness and fostering collaboration among government institutions and the public. Training programs are developed for local authorities, specialists, and tailings storage operators, as well as representatives of the public and active citizens. This is an important step in achieving another Sustainable Development Goal – SDG 17, which focuses on partnership and joint action. Education and public awareness campaigns on sustainable water use, resource protection and pollution prevention are essential to ensuring effective and sustainable management of natural resource, empowering both institutions and individuals.
Compliance with Uzbekistan's international obligations in water supply and health protection is a key aspect of the project. In 2024, Uzbekistan became the first Central Asian country to join the Protocol on Water and Health, committing to cross-sectoral goals in the water supply, sanitation and health protection. This not only enhances the country’s domestic performance in these areas but also enables active participation in global efforts to improve the quality and sanitation standards.
Achieving these goals requires coordinated actions from all stakeholders at local and regional levels. To this end, the project has facilitated the establishment of an Inter-Institutional Working Group in 2024, tasked with coordinating efforts to prevent water pollution and ensure the safety of environmentally hazardous facilities. This collaboration strengthens Uzbekistan's capacity to address water supply challenges, improve sanitation, and effectively respond to environmental threats.
The project "Strengthening action in Uzbekistan on Water and Sanitation and protection of Water Resources from Accidental Pollution in the face of Climate Change" exemplifies how international cooperation can effectively address pressing global challenges. By improving water security and preventing pollution, the project not only enhances the population’s quality of life, but also strengthens Uzbekistan's role as an active contributor to global environmental initiatives. These measures establish a robust foundation for advancing the country's water infrastructure, strengthening climate resilience, and reducing the risks and impacts of industrial accidents. The project’s comprehensive approach represents a significant step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring a better quality of life for future generations.
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
Palais des Nations, Geneva
