At the pre-conference session of the International Conference "Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan" (OGT 2025) in Ashgabat, Muhammetberdi Byashiyev, Candidate of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences, Head of the Environmental Protection Department of the Scientific Research Institute of Natural Gas of the State Concern "Turkmengaz", presented the concern's impressive results and plans … [Read more...]
A New Step in Nature Conservation: Tallymerjen Sanctuary to Be Established on the Right Bank of the Amu Darya in Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is actively implementing its National Forest Program, a key component of which is the expansion of specially protected natural areas. One of the flagship projects in this effort is the creation of the Tallymerjen Sanctuary in the Lebap province, as part of the Koytendag State Nature Reserve. This initiative aims to preserve the unique ecosystem of the Tallymerjen … [Read more...]
Young Naturalist’s Third Anniversary: Turkmenistan’s Youth Driving Climate Solutions
On 3 October 2025, the non-governmental environmental organization Young Naturalist (Ýaş Tebigatçy) celebrated its third anniversary in Ashgabat, marking a milestone in its mission to tackle climate challenges. Co-organized with TMT Consulting Group, the bright event drew foreign diplomats, public figures, and journalists. Leyli Shyhmadova, the organization’s inspiring head, … [Read more...]
The UNDP/GEF project announces contest “Green Ideas: Women and Climate”
The contest is conducted within the framework of the UNDP/GEF project “Conservation and Sustainable Management of Land Resources and High Nature Value Ecosystems in the Aral Sea Basin for Multiple Benefits”, financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented jointly with the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan. The contest is organized for … [Read more...]
Delegation of Turkmenistan Participates in Third Meeting of Range States of Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) of Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)
Shirin Karryeva, Technical Advisor to the Conservation X Labs project The Third Meeting of Range States to the CMS Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) took place in Tashkent (Uzbekistan) from 24 to 26 June 2025. The Central Asian Mammal Initiative was established in 2014 at the 11th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the CMS to provide a common strategic … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Strengthens Global Environmental Cooperation
During the Cabinet of minister meeting on Friday, 13 June 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov reported on Turkmenistan’s proactive efforts to bolster international cooperation in ecology, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. It was noted that systematically … [Read more...]
A New Island in the Caspian Sea Could Become a Haven for Birds and Seals
Near the Volga Delta in the northern part of the Caspian Sea, a phenomenon has captured the attention of scientists and ecologists: a new island has formed 30 kilometers southwest of Maly Zhemchuzhny Island in the Russian sector of the sea. This discovery was made during a joint expedition by the P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), … [Read more...]
TESC 2025: ENI Turkmenistan pioneers environmental innovation in Hydrocarbon Development
At TESC 2025 in Ashgabat, ETL showcased its multifaceted approach to environmental stewardship in hydrocarbon development. Through the Nebit Dag PSA, innovative projects like BIOPILE, robust GHG emission reduction strategies, and sustainable water management, ETL demonstrates a commitment to balancing operational excellence with environmental responsibility in … [Read more...]
International Scientific and Practical Conference “Environmental aspects of implementing innovative technologies in the development of hydrocarbon fields”
June 5th, annually observed as World Environment Day, holds special significance for the global community. On this very day, Ashgabat will host a significant event: the International Scientific and Practical Conference "Ecological Aspects of Implementing Innovative Technologies in Hydrocarbon Field Development" (TESC 2025). This event aims to serve as a key platform for … [Read more...]
Central Asia – Agriculture Afresh – Part Two
nCa Report Six Inches of Soil is a film screened recently in Ashgabat. There is also a companion book of the same name, documenting the inspiring story of British farmers standing up to the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food – to heal the soil, benefit our health and provide for local communities. We are producing here some passages from the … [Read more...]
UNDP makes a significant contribution to Turkmenistan’s efforts in fulfilling its global climate agreement commitments
Within the framework of the project "Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated Green Urban Development in Ashgabat and Avaza” implemented by the UNDP jointly with the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, a National Working Meeting was held on 19 March 2025. The meeting focused on climate reporting within the country's obligations under the UN Framework … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Environmentalists Discuss SMART Inspection Implementation in Nature Reserves
On 14 March 2025, a training session on SMART inspection was held at the Hydrometeorological Service building of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan. The event, organized by the Ministry in cooperation with the Center for the Conservation of Large Landscapes (CLLC) and Conservation X Labs, focused on the implementation of the SMART mobile application for … [Read more...]
Workshop in Turkmen Farab Turns Plastic Waste into Export Products
In Farab, Lebap province of Turkmenistan, there is a unique production facility — a workshop for recycling used plastic containers. This company not only solves an important environmental problem, but also produces high-quality products that are in demand abroad, as reported by the newspaper "Neutral Turkmenistan." With the spread of plastic containers worldwide, the problem … [Read more...]
The Regional Environmental Center of Central Asia has signed a memorandum of cooperation with NGOs in the eastern region of Turkmenistan.
Last week, the project office of the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CARECECO) in Turkmenistan signed a memorandum of understanding with the Taze Zaman NGO, which operates in the Lebap province, the eastern region of Turkmenistan. The memorandum is aimed at strengthening the long-term partnership between CARECECO and Taze Zaman in order to improve the … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan’s Eco-Course: Ban on AI-80, New Industrial Restrictions and Mandatory Plastic Recycling
By the end of 2025, Uzbekistan plans to completely abandon the use of AI-80 gasoline, which does not comply with the Euro-4 environmental standard and significantly pollutes the environment. This is reported by the Uz Daily agency. The ban stems from recommendations received from various sources, including the general public, international and local environmental … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan Launches New Phase of Aral Sea Greening Project
A new stage of greening of the drained bottom of the Aral Sea launched in Kazakhstan as part of the implementation of a large-scale program to restore the ecosystem of the Aral Sea. The Ministry of Ecology, Geology, and Natural Resources has signed an agreement with the KATCO joint venture, comprising French state-owned Orano Mining SA and Kazakh company Kazatomprom, along … [Read more...]
New Project to enhance agroecology and land management in Turkmen Aral Sea Region
With the support of various UN structural agencies, Turkmenistan is involved in the implementation of multi–country long-term projects in various agroecological areas: protection of grain from locusts, development of aquaculture, camel farming, ecosystem support and natural solutions in agriculture to enhance the resilience of biodiversity and agricultural production to the … [Read more...]
Celebrating 95 Years: Contribution of the National Park in Turkmenistan to Wildlife Preservation
Elena Dolgova According to the legislation, in addition to nature reserves, specially protected natural areas also include biosphere reserves, national nature parks, natural recreation areas, state botanical gardens and zoological parks. Last year marked a double celebration, as both the Botanical Garden and the Zoo observed their 95th anniversaries. Established in October … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Joins CITES, Strengthening Wildlife Trade Regulation and Conservation in Central Asia
Geneva, 20 November 2024 – The Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) welcomes Turkmenistan as the 185th Party to the Convention. With Turkmenistan’s accession, wildlife trade in CITES-listed species in Central Asia is regulated by CITES provisions, marking a unified approach to conserving biodiversity across … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Delegation Engages in Key Dialogues on Water Security and Climate Resilience at OSCE’s 2024 EEDIM
Turkmenistan Delegation participated in the 2024 OSCE Economic and Environmental Dimension Implementation Meeting (EEDIM), reinforcing its commitment to sustainable water governance, regional cooperation, and environmental security in Central Asia. During the meeting’s first session, Turkmenistan’s representative, Mr. Magtymguly Akmyradov, addressed regional challenges and … [Read more...]
Central Asian Water Experts Meet to Enhance Cooperation on Water, Energy, Environment and Climate Issues
On October 29-30, 2024, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, the UNRCCA organized a “Expert Meeting on Water, Energy, Environment, and Climate Cooperation in Central Asia” as part of its water project. The meeting brought together representatives from relevant ministries, state agencies, and national and international experts, including those from UNESCO, UNECE, UNAMA, and DPPA, to assess … [Read more...]
To protect migratory species of fauna in Turkmenistan
Elena Dolgova On April 12, 2024, during a Cabinet of Ministers meeting, Turkmenistan discussed the possibility of joining a trilateral environmental agreement with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The goal is to protect migratory species of wildlife in Turkmenistan and neighboring regions, particularly the Ustyurt Plateau and the Turkmen Pre-Ustyurt region. Following this … [Read more...]
At the Forefront of the Environmental Struggle: the Story of Ogulsuray from Dashoguz
Ogulsuray Atayeva, leader of Eco-Durmush, empowers rural women in Dashoguz, building resilience against the impacts of climate change. UNDP Turkmenistan Dashoguz province in Turkmenistan faces significant challenges due to the lingering effects of the Aral Sea crisis and the intensifying impact of climate change. Declining rainfall, water shortages, and land … [Read more...]
Climate challenges of the Caspian Sea discussed at the European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute of Asian Studies hosted an event dedicated to the current climate challenges facing the Caspian Sea. Representatives of diplomatic missions, international organizations, mass media and analytical centers took part in the discussion. Among the speakers were Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan Vagif Sadigov, CEO of the … [Read more...]
Digital Economy – UNCTAD sounds warning
Digital Economy, of which e-commerce is a vital part, is spreading at breakneck speed. Every country wants to get there soonest and because of the fast developing technologies that define and drive a digital economy, this would remain an ongoing quest for quite some time. --- For now, the digital economy is simultaneously a journey and a destination. The UNCTAD (UN Trade and … [Read more...]
Tehran Convention: A Cornerstone for Caspian Cooperation
Since its entry into force in 2007, the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea (Tehran Convention) has been celebrated annually on August 12 as Caspian Day. This observance unites the millions of residents across the five littoral states who share a deep connection through environmental, economic activities, energy, fisheries, and … [Read more...]
IOM builds national capacities on human mobility management in the context of adaptation to climate change
6 August 2024, Ashgabat - Dashoguz. Senior and mid-level government officials from relevant national institutions at the regional and national level have improved their capacities and understanding of human mobility management in the context of adaptation to climate change in a series of events organized by IOM in Turkmenistan in late July 2024 as part of the IOM project … [Read more...]
CIS Strengthens Cooperation in Energy, Chemical Industry, and Environmental Protection
The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member countries have agreed to enhance cooperation in energy, chemical industries, and environmental protection. This decision comes after a meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in Ashgabat, where relevant concepts and action plans were approved. These documents were developed taking into account the need to reach … [Read more...]
UNDP contributes to improving the environmental monitoring system in Turkmenistan Ashgabat
May 14-15, 2024: Within the framework of the joint project of UNDP and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan "Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated Green Urban Development in Ashgabat and Avaza”, an educational training was held in Ashgabat on May 14-15, 2024. The training was attended by specialists of the Environmental Control Service laboratories … [Read more...]
Deserts in Central Asia – Part One
nCa Report There are some 14 territories and areas in Central Asia that are categorized as deserts. Some of them are in this category mainly for technical reasons and one of them should not have existed at all. The total area of deserts in Central Asia comes to about 1.5 million square km. This should be taken as an approximation because some territories overlap at some … [Read more...]
RECCA Partners with Turkmenistan NGOs for Environmental Projects
The Regional Environmental Center of Central Asia (RECCA) has signed memoranda of understanding with leading public organizations of Turkmenistan – the Society for the Protection of Nature of Turkmenistan and the Tebigi Kuwwat (Nature’s Energy) enterprise, according to RECCA. "This event opens a new page of cooperation with the civil society of Turkmenistan and provides new … [Read more...]
Foreign office of Turkmenistan will host roundtable on Caspian environmental issues this month
The DPM and foreign minister of Turkmenistan reported during a cabinet meeting on 12 April 2024 that the foreign office will host a roundtable on the Caspian environmental issues in the second half of this month. It would be the first step toward the implementation of the initiative of the president of Turkmenistan for the Caspian Environmental Initiative, voiced at the 78th … [Read more...]
Туркменистан и XP Up green разработают совместный план действий по обеспечению экологической целостности и повышению эффективности использования нефтяных и газовых месторождений
Туркменская делегация, находясь с визитом в Европейском Союзе, провела ряд важных встреч не только с официальными лицами ЕС, но и с представителями бизнеса, в частности, с генеральным директором компании XP Upgreen, Бартом Вотериксом. XP Upgreen является компанией, которая активно внедряет новейшие европейские технологии в сфере увеличения объема добычи углеводородов, а также … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and XP Upgreen to develop joint action plan environmental integrity and enhanced efficiency of oil and gas fields
The Turkmen delegation, while visiting Brussels, held a series of important meetings not only with EU officials but also with business leaders, particularly with Bart Wauterickx, Managing Director of XP Upgreen. XP Upgreen is a company actively implementing the latest European technologies in enhancing hydrocarbon production volumes and aimed at reducing methane emissions, … [Read more...]
Central Asia is a home for over 530 species of birds
April 1 is International Bird Day. More than 530 species of birds live in the countries of Central Asia. More than 200 species are listed in the Red Books of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Among them are the white-eyed duck, the common flamingo, and the black stork, living in the valleys of large rivers and the Caspian Sea, as well as the … [Read more...]
Kazakhstan handed over the chairmanship of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development to Tajikistan
On 28 March 2024, Kazakhstan hosted a meeting of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development (ICSD) in Astana, according to the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. Representatives from the environmental ministries of Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) attended the meeting. Additionally, representatives from the … [Read more...]
OSCE-Central Asian Meeting in Ashgabat Paves Way for Stronger Climate Action
On 4 March 2024, Ashgabat hosted a forum of the OSCE and Ministers of Environmental Protection of Central Asian countries on issues related to climate change and sustainable development. OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid commented on the outcomes of the meeting in an interview with the Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper. Here are the key points mentioned by Ms.Schmid: • … [Read more...]
OSCE and Central Asia held a meeting in Ashgabat on regional cooperation in the field of ecology
On 4 March 2024, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and Central Asian environment ministers convened in Ashgabat to discuss regional ecological cooperation, according to TDH. OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid emphasized the meeting's significance, highlighting its role in refocusing attention on contemporary environmental challenges. Schmid … [Read more...]
Green Games of Volunteers held on the Shore of the Geokdepe Lake
On 3 March, as part of the #ForOurPlanet European Union Global Campaign, the European Union (EU) Delegation to Turkmenistan jointly with the Nature Protection Society of Turkmenistan, and “Agama” Mountain Climbing Club, organised the Green Games of Volunteers. The event took place on the shores of Geokdepe Lake and brought together over 100 participants. EU volunteers, … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan to suspend operation of polluting businesses with new law
Uzbekistan has strengthened its environmental protection efforts by introducing amendments to key laws. These changes empower authorities to suspend or restrict the operations of businesses that excessively pollute the environment, posing a threat to public health and safety. The President of Uzbekistan signed a law on amendments to the laws "On Nature Protection", "On … [Read more...]
The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on combating environmental problems in Central Asia
In a crucial step towards tackling the region's mounting environmental concerns, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution titled “Central Asia facing environmental challenges: fostering regional solidarity for sustainable development and prosperity”. This document, spearheaded by Uzbekistan alongside numerous countries, marks a vital recognition of the dire … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan to Establish Center for Ozone-Depleting Substance Collection and Disposal
A seminar on Turkmenistan's implementation of the Montreal Protocol to the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer was held at the Ministry of Environmental Protection. Environmental inspectors from Turkmenistan's state hydrometeorology and environmental control services attended the seminar, according to the Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper. The seminar … [Read more...]
Central Asia Unveils Regional Strategy to Tackle Climate Change
In a significant step towards addressing the escalating climate crisis, the Central Asian countries presented a comprehensive Regional Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change at the UN Climate Summit in Dubai (COP 28). This strategy, unanimously approved by all Central Asian nations, marks a unified front against the region's growing vulnerability to climate change … [Read more...]
The Central Asia Pavilion opens at COP28 in Dubai
On 1 December 2023, the grand opening of the Central Asia Pavilion at the 28th UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP28) took place in Dubai, the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CAREC) reports. The pavilion launch ceremony was attended by representatives of the Central Asian countries, development partners and representatives of civil society. Representative of … [Read more...]
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and UNEP Executive Director discussed Turkmenistan’s international climate initiatives
On 1 December 2023, in Dubai, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a meeting with Ms.Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UNEP, on the sidelines of the COP28 Conference, TDH reports. The sides expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to discuss topical issues of cooperation in the environmental field. At the … [Read more...]
2 billion tons of sand and dust, equal in weight to 350 Great Pyramids of Giza, enter the atmosphere every year – warn UN experts
The prevalence of sand and dust storms has intensified worldwide, with human activity contributing to over 25% of these occurrences, according to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Each year, an estimated 2 billion tons of sand and dust enter the atmosphere, a weight equivalent to 350 Great Pyramids of Giza. This alarming trend was highlighted during the … [Read more...]
MFA Turkmenistan and UNEP Discuss Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change
Turkmenistan and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) reaffirmed their commitment to environmental protection and climate change action during an online meeting between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen. The two sides exchanged views on the current agenda of cooperation in the field of ecology, climate change, and … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan-UNEP MoU signing marks a significant milestone toward the establishment of the Regional Centre for Climate Technology for Central Asia
On November 13, 2023, The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan solidified their commitment to environmental conservation, protection, and sustainable development through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The document was signed by the Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan Mr. … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan promotes the introduction of alternatives to ozone-depleting substances
A meeting on the international experience of reducing the consumption of substances regulated by the Montreal Protocol was held at the UN building in Ashgabat. It was attended by representatives of ministries and departments of Turkmenistan, UNIDO, and UNDP. The staff of the Ozone Office under the Ministry of Environmental Protection presented expert assessments of … [Read more...]
ADB: Narrowing the flood and earthquake risk protection gap in Central Asia
With climate change set to exacerbate the frequency and severity of disaster events, Central Asia and South Asia face a growing risk protection gap. KEY TAKEAWAYS With climate change set to exacerbate the frequency and severity of natural hazards, Central Asia and South Asia face higher risk to lives and livelihoods. Pre-arranged disaster risk financing can help … [Read more...]