Uzbekistan has announced a nationwide initiative to restore and expand forested areas by 1.5mn hectares by 2030. This plan is detailed in a presidential decree aimed at strengthening the activities of the Agency for the Increase of Forests and Green Areas and Combating Desertification. The strategy aims to promote sustainable land use, fight desertification, and increase greenery across the country.
According to the decree, several major targets have been set for implementation by 2030. These include the reforestation and restoration of 1.5mn hectares of land, and the development of plantations for medicinal, food, and spice plants on 3,800 hectares of forested land.
In addition, the country plans to produce 9,200 tons of tree and shrub seeds and grow 919mn seedlings. The use of the “terrace” planting method is also planned on 500 hectares in mountainous and foothill areas between 2025 and 2026.
To support these goals, Uzbekistan will establish the Center for Digitalization of Forestry. This new state institution will be formed on the basis of the existing State Unitary Enterprise "O‘rmontexnoservis" and will operate under the newly created Agency for the Promotion of Forestry and Green Areas and Combating Desertification.
The center will serve as the sole operator of the "Smart Forestry" information platform, responsible for digitizing forestry management, monitoring resources in real time, and using artificial intelligence and integrated data systems to enhance efficiency.
Nizomiddin Bakirov, Director of the Forestry Agency, noted that Uzbekistan’s forest fund has expanded significantly in recent years. Over the past six years, it has increased by 1mn hectares, bringing the total forest area to 11.9mn hectares, which accounts for 26.4% of the country’s land.
The nationwide Yashil makon (Green Nation) initiative has also contributed to greening efforts. Nearly 3 mn tree and shrub seedlings were distributed free of charge to citizens across the country, and “green gardens” have been created on 457 hectares of land.
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