An Environmental Forest Classification for Biodiversity Conservation Presented on the Sidelines of CITES CoP20

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A side event titled “Nature Projects: Environmental Forest Classification for Biodiversity Conservation” was held as part of the 20th Conference of the Parties to the CITES Convention (CITES CoP20).

The event aimed to present new scientific developments in the environmental classification of forest ecosystems in Uzbekistan, demonstrate the potential of modern technologies for protecting rare species, and expand national and international cooperation in the field of nature conservation.

The participants were welcomed by First Deputy Minister of Ecology Obidjon Kudratov and the Director of the project institute Yashil Loyikha, Olim Hakimov. They emphasized the importance of a scientifically grounded approach to assessing natural resources, monitoring ecosystems, and ensuring their sustainable management.

The event featured presentations on efforts to integrate biodiversity conservation into national environmental strategies, the scientific and practical value of environmental forest classification, and international experience in sustainable forest management. Special attention was given to a new classification methodology based on artificial intelligence, satellite data, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and modern digital mapping technologies.

For the first time in Uzbekistan, a comprehensive system of environmental forest classification has been created, which includes identifying habitats of rare species, developing ecological risk maps, forming a national environmental information platform, and preparing scientifically grounded data for CITES.

The second part of the event featured discussions on key issues, including the role of classification in protecting rare species, integrating the results of the RESILAND project into national planning, using data for CITES monitoring and reporting, strengthening regional environmental cooperation, and involving local communities in conservation initiatives.

Experts stressed that a scientifically grounded environmental classification is a strategically important tool for the sustainable management of natural resources and the effective protection of biodiversity.

The developed methodology has become the first comprehensive digital scientific platform for Uzbekistan’s forest ecosystems. It will be used to support the implementation of CITES objectives and will make a significant contribution to the conservation of rare species and their natural habitats.