The global shift towards green energy and sustainability is presenting both challenges and opportunities on the geopolitical stage. Amid this transition, the European Union (EU) is exploring ways to strengthen its ties with Central Asian nations while advancing the cause of environmental sustainability. The recent launch of the Global Gateway Initiative on Water, Energy, and Climate by the EU underscores its commitment to supporting the green transition in Central Asia. This article delves into key areas where the EU can contribute to the region's sustainability efforts.
Integrated Water Governance
Central Asia's water resources are a critical shared asset, with transboundary rivers like the Amu Darya and Syr Darya flowing through multiple countries. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, these countries have grappled with the complex issue of trading energy for water, a system that has led to unsustainable levels of water consumption and concerns about potential water conflicts.
The main issue regarding water in Central Asia isn't solely a lack of water, but rather the insufficient utilization of the existing resources. Recent studies have shown that this region has one of the lowest rates of water efficiency on a global scale. The typical water efficiency is estimated to be $2.5 per cubic meter, a figure significantly lower than the worldwide average of $19.01 per cubic meter.
The EU can play a crucial role in promoting integrated water management by assisting in the development of legal frameworks, policies, and regulations related to the water-energy nexus. This includes addressing competing demands for upstream hydroelectricity generation and downstream agricultural needs. Additionally, the EU can help establish efficient monitoring systems and improve data collection, ultimately enhancing decision-making processes.
These efforts could lead to further financial contributions from EU member states and institutions, fostering sustainable and equitable water resource management. Such initiatives would not only enhance water security but also drive socioeconomic development in the region.
Renewable Energy
Central Asia possesses vast untapped potential for renewable energy sources, including hydropower, solar, wind, geothermal, and bioenergy. Despite this potential, the deployment of renewable energy projects in the region has been limited. Kazakhstan stands out as a leader in renewable energy development, particularly in solar (over 800 MW) and wind (over 300 MW) installations. Other countries in the region have also taken steps towards embracing renewables.
Despite Turkmenistan, which presents challenges, the outlook for renewable energy in Central Asia appears bright. Kazakhstan serves as a commendable model with its successful policies and execution. Uzbekistan has also made significant strides by enacting renewable energy legislation and commencing wind and solar ventures. Furthermore, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have both put in place legislative and regulatory structures to support renewable energy.
However, Central Asian countries face energy deficits and natural gas shortages, leading to a need for diversification and decarbonization of their energy supply. This problem has impacted even the most prominent natural gas producers globally, such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. Despite having substantial energy resources, these nations have found it difficult to satisfy their energy needs due to rising domestic consumption and deficiencies in their infrastructure. Given these obstacles, the EU can play a pivotal role by encouraging investments in renewable energy projects, supporting the adoption of clean energy technologies, and advocating for energy efficiency measures.
The European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+) can serve as a primary financial tool for mobilizing investments through the Global Gateway Initiative. By leveraging these resources, the EU can accelerate the transition to renewable energy in Central Asia, meeting the region's energy demands while aligning with global climate commitments.
Climate-Smart Agriculture
Central Asia's growing population and changing climate present significant challenges for agriculture. Increased demand for agricultural products strains limited water resources and exacerbates domestic and regional instabilities. Moreover, the region is already experiencing the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures, shifting agricultural boundaries, and extreme weather events.
Moreover, the area is presently confronting the consequences of climate change, including higher temperatures, erratic weather shifts, changing agricultural zones, the spread of invasive species, and an uptick in severe weather occurrences. As indicated by research conducted by the World Bank, if these concerns are not addressed, Central Asia could face economic losses amounting to 1.3% of its GDP annually due to droughts and floods. Additionally, these studies anticipate a 30% reduction in crop yields by 2050, potentially compelling approximately 5.1 mn individuals to relocate due to climate-induced problems.
The EU can support Central Asian countries in mitigating and adapting to climate change by promoting climate-smart agricultural policies and practices. This includes the adoption of agroecological practices, efficient irrigation technology, and precision farming methods. These measures can enhance soil health, biodiversity, and farmer incomes while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Agriculture, a major contributor to global emissions, accounting for 19% to 29%, offers an opportunity for Central Asia to make substantial reductions in emissions through sustainable practices. By supporting the adoption of such practices, the EU can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change while bolstering the resilience of Central Asian agriculture.
The EU's engagement with Central Asia in the context of the green transition is a significant step towards regional sustainability and cooperation. By focusing on integrated water governance, renewable energy promotion, and climate-smart agriculture, the EU can help Central Asian nations strengthen their international standing, attract investments, and diversify their partnerships. This collaborative approach aligns with the EU's strategic interests and its commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for all. Additionally, Central Asian countries, notably Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan can play a pivotal role in assisting the EU in reducing risks associated with critical mineral imports for clean energy technologies and providing alternatives to Russian natural gas for the European market, further cementing their partnership in the green transition.
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