Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan boost air quality cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are entering a new phase of environmental cooperation by uniting scientific potential and practical mechanisms to address the challenge of transboundary atmospheric air pollution.

Following a meeting between representatives of the relevant agencies of both countries, an agreement was reached to establish a joint working group. This group will focus on developing science-based solutions to improve air quality in border regions.

The negotiations took place at the Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University). The Uzbek and Kazakh delegations discussed developing bilateral interaction in environmental monitoring, scientific data exchange, and the implementation of joint conservation initiatives.

Continuation of High-Level Agreements

The meeting served as a practical follow-up to the agreements reached on 11 April 2026 in Bukhara during talks between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At that time, the heads of state identified the development of regional environmental initiatives, including the joint "Clean Air" project, as a priority for bilateral cooperation.

The discussions included representatives from the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Hydrometeorological Service Agency, the National Climate Change Center, and research institutions. The Kazakh side was represented by a delegation from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the national hydrometeorological service "Kazhydromet," and relevant scientific organizations.

Shared Atmosphere Requires Joint Solutions

The central theme of the talks was improving the atmospheric air monitoring system and conducting joint research on the transboundary transport of pollutants.

The parties presented air quality observation results, data on atmospheric circulation processes, and studies on the concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter, which have the most significant impact on public health.

Experts emphasized that atmospheric air knows no state borders, and natural processes cause the transport of pollutants between adjacent territories. Consequently, an effective solution to the problem is only possible through close coordination between the two states using unified scientific approaches.

Scientific Research as the Foundation for Collaboration

The Uzbek side presented results from comprehensive studies showing that anthropogenic sources contribute the most to air pollution in large cities, while atmospheric circulation facilitates the spread of pollutants over long distances.

Materials regarding the spatial distribution of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, prepared based on data from a network of automated air quality monitoring stations, were also demonstrated.

Following the discussions, the decision was made to form a joint working group comprising scientists, hydrometeorological service specialists, and environmental agency experts from both nations. Its activities will target joint research, monitoring data exchange, and the formulation of practical recommendations to reduce transboundary pollution levels.

Reviewing the "Clean Air" Project Experience

During the visit, the Kazakh delegation observed practical measures being implemented in Uzbekistan under the nationwide "Clean Air" project.

The representatives of Kazakhstan were shown projects involving the relocation of greenhouse complexes away from ecologically sensitive zones, the operation of modern emission purification systems at the Tashkent Thermal Power Plant, and the environmental sticker mechanism for motor vehicles aimed at reducing transport-related environmental impacts.

A New Phase of Regional Environmental Partnership

According to experts, the reached agreements signify a transition in cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan from an exchange of experience to the execution of joint practical projects.

Establishing a unified scientific platform, coordinating air quality monitoring, and developing harmonized pollution reduction measures are expected to increase the effectiveness of the environmental policies of both countries, serving as a vital contribution to the environmental security of the entire Central Asian region.