CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACT ON THE PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY OF UZBEKISTAN

Аннотация

This article analyzes the impact of global climate change on the natural and geographical systems of Uzbekistan, particularly water resources, ecosystems, arid regions, flora and fauna. The main causes and consequences of climate warming and local adaptation measures are given special attention. Keywords: climate change, geography of Uzbekistan, drought, water scarcity, ecological balance, desertification, adaptation strategies. Global climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity, and its consequences are particularly evident in countries with continental climates such as Uzbekistan. In recent decades, there has been a noticeable increase in air temperature, shifts in precipitation patterns, morefrequent droughts, andenvironmental crises—all signs ofthis phenomenon. Uzbekistan’s diverse physical geography, ranging from mountainous areas to broad plains, results in climate change affecting different regions in distinct ways. Areas such as the Aral Sea region, Kyzylkum Desert, Zarafshan Valley, and mountainous zones are especially vulnerable tothese changes. In recent years:  The average annual temperature has increased by 1–1.5°C, leading to longer vegetation periods and greater evaporation;  Droughts and water shortages have intensified, particularly in the Amu Darya and Syr Darya basins;  Ecosystem stability has been compromised – some plant and animal species are under threat;  Desertification has accelerated, with increased land degradation and more frequent sandstorms. The melting of glaciers in mountainous areas is a particularly urgent issue, directly affecting Uzbekistan's water resources. The shrinking volume of glaciers reduces the year-round flow of rivers, which creates challenges for agriculture and drinking water supply. Agriculture is among the sectors most impacted by climate change. Irrigated farming is suffering from water shortages, while crop growing seasons and productivity are shifting. This is particularly evident in cotton, wheat, and fruit and vegetable cultivation, where agrotechnical practices are beingrevised. The Government of Uzbekistan has adopted several strategic documents aimed at combating and adapting to climate change. Notably, initiatives such as the development of “green energy,” 359 INTERNATIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL FOR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SJIF2019:5.2222020:5.5522021:5.6372022:5.4792023:6.5632024:7,805 eISSN:2394-6334 https://www.ijmrd.in/index.php/imjrd Volume12,issue06(2025) water-saving technologies, and the introduction of agrometeorological monitoring systems are being implemented tomitigate negative consequences. Climate change affects all components of Uzbekistan’s physical geography, both directly and indirectly. This process disrupts natural balance and leads to worsening ecological, social, and economic challenges. Therefore, the development and implementation of scientifically grounded monitoring and adaptation strategies are crucial for reducing climate-related risks. Only through collaboration among science, government policy, and the public can sustainable systems be builtto withstand theimpacts ofclimatechange. The effects of climate change on Uzbekistan's physical geography are not only environmental but also pose a serious challenge tosocio-economic stability. Therefore, the following measures shouldbe prioritized:  Digitizingand updating climatemonitoringand forecasting systems;  Broad implementation ofwater-efficient agricultural technologies;  Launching comprehensive programs to combat desertification through afforestation and haltinglanddegradation;  Enhancing ecological literacy and education among youth and the population;  Funding scientific research onclimatechange and expandinginternational cooperation. This article serves as a scientific basis for understanding ongoing environmental-geographic transformations in Uzbekistan and for assessing potential future ecological risks. It provides a foundation forsustainable national development and therational use ofnatural resources.