TRANSITION TO A GREEN ECONOMY: NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR UZBEKISTAN'S ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY

Аннотация

This thesis analyzes Uzbekistan's transition to a green economy, examining the challenges and opportunities along the way. Against the backdrop of global warming, limited natural resources, and environmental issues, the green economy is regarded as a crucial factor in ensuring the country's economic sustainability. The thesis offers recommendations for improving energy efficiency, expanding the use of renewable energy sources, and introducing environmentally friendly technologies. Keywords: green economy, sustainable development, environmental security, renewable energy, economic reforms In recent years, environmental issues have become one of the most pressing global challenges facing humanity. As a result, there is an increasing need to develop the economy in an environmentally efficient, socially equitable, and long - term sustainable manner. The green economy represents such a balanced model of development. The Republic of Uzbekistan has adopted a number of important documents and strategies aimed at transitioning to a green economy. In particular, the “Strategy for the Transition to a Green Economy for 2019–2030” was approved, which outlines key directions such as the development of environmentally friendly energy sources, waste reduction, and the efficient use of water resources. Despite Uzbekistan’s high potential for the use of solar and wind energy, investment in this sector has not yet been fully realized. The transition to a green economy not only contributes to environmental protection, but also plays a key role in creating new jobs and ensuring economic diversification. The green economy is a key factor not only for environmental protection, but also for achieving social and economic sustainability in Uzbekistan. Strengthening state policy in this area, encouraging private sector participation, and increasing public environmental awareness are among the pressing tasks. In the future, efforts to build an environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, and innovative economic model will serve as a solid foundation for economic stability. For example, energy-efficient technologies reduce production costs and improve productivity through the rational use of resources. Therefore, the transition to a green economy is becoming a vital driver of economic growth. 148 ACADEMIC RESEARCH IN MODERN SCIENCE International scientific-online conference In Uzbekistan, laws and regulations adopted in this area play a crucial role. In particular, the “Strategy for the Transition to a Green Economy” adopted in 2019 and the Law “On Environmental Audit,” which came into force in 2022, encourage enterprises to adhere to environmental responsibility and the principles of sustainable development. In addition, a simplified taxation system has been introduced to attract investment in renewable energy sources. Another important aspect of the green economy is the active involvement of the private sector. Today, several domestic and foreign companies are successfully operating in areas such as bioenergy, waste recycling, and the production of environmentally friendly products. For example, a biofuel- producing enterprise is operating in the Surkhandarya region, while a fully integrated waste recycling cluster has been established in the Bukhara region. Uzbekistan’s main goal for the future in the field of green economy is to transition to a sustainable and low-carbon economic model by 2030. To achieve this, effective cooperation between the state and society, the application of modern scientific achievements in practice, and the enhancement of public environmental awareness are essential. Through these efforts, Uzbekistan can make a meaningful contribution to the global fight against climate change. The practical implementation of the green economy concept directly affects not only economic indicators but also the quality of life and health of the population. The annual population growth in Uzbekistan, the accelerating processes of urbanization, and the expansion of industrial sectors are increasing environmental pressure. Therefore, the introduction of green technologies can help mitigate these negative consequences. According to statistical data, by the end of 2022, the share of renewable energy sources in Uzbekistan’s total energy production exceeded 10%. The goal is to increase this figure to 25% by 2030. The growing number of projects in solar power, wind energy, and bioenergy indicates a positive trend. However, to ensure continued progress, it is necessary to further improve the legal and regulatory framework and attract investors through tax and customs incentives. The transition to a green economy is also closely linked with education and science. In Uzbekistan, higher education institutions are expanding the training of specialists in fields such as environmental management, sustainable development, and environmental governance. This plays a crucial role in achieving long-term strategic objectives. International experi