The inauguration of the Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies, also known as the Green University, took place in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan. The primary objective of this institution is to pioneer novel concepts, methodologies, and technologies aimed at addressing environmental challenges at local, regional, and global levels. Additionally, it aims to foster enhanced collaboration within the region in the realm of ecology and environmental conservation.
The inauguration event of the university saw the presence of notable figures including Grethel Aguilar, the Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Aziz Abdukhakimov, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, as well as environment ministers from all Central Asian nations.
Speaking at the event, Ms Aguilar said: “We congratulate the government of Uzbekistan on the opening of the Central Asian Green University, a major regional initiative that serves to develop environmental leadership and education. This university will help solve the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. Through environmental education, the university will contribute to the conservation of a region rich in nature".
The Green University also marked the opening of the inaugural office of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Central Asia on the same day. Ms Aguilar commented, “Today our planet faces three major challenges – climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution. All countries must work together to solve these problems. Together with Uzbekistan and the countries of Central Asia, we are implementing new projects aimed at protecting the region’s ecosystem. The opening of the IUCN office is an important step in this direction”.
