ENVIRONMENTAL CULTURE AND EDUCATION OF YOUTH IN UZBEKISTAN

Аннотация

This article examines the importance of environmental education and the formation of environmental culture among the youth of Uzbekistan. It analyzes programs and initiatives aimed at raising youth awareness of environmental issues, sustainable use of natural resources, and biodiversity conservation. The role of state institutions, educational institutions, and public organizations in developing ecological thinking is considered. Particular attention is given to Uzbekistan’s international cooperation in the field of environmental education. The author emphasizes the need for further development and expansionofenvironmental education forthesustainable futureof thecountry. Keywords: environmental education, environmental culture, youth, sustainable development, natural resources, Uzbekistan. Environmental CultureandEducation ofYouth inUzbekistan Environmental issues have become one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The world faces the necessity of preserving the environment and rationally using natural resources. Along with this, the question of environmental education for youth arises, as it is a key element in forming ecological thinking, understanding responsibility toward nature, anddeveloping an environmentally sustainablelifestyle. Ecological thinking is the ability to see and understand the interconnection between humans and nature, recognize the importance of balance in ecosystems, and engage in sustainable activities to preserve them. It is essential for making informed environmental decisions and participating in ecological projects. Such thinking serves as the foundation for the formation ofenvironmental cultureamong youth. In Uzbekistan, large-scale events and programs are conducted todevelop ecological thinking and education among young people. These include environmental conferences, seminars, and training sessions, the creation of ecological school clubs, and the organization of environmental clean-up campaigns. One of the main objectives of these programs is to raise youth awareness about Uzbekistan’s current environmental situation and challenges, as well as to develop skills and knowledge necessary for thesustainableuse ofnatural resources and biodiversityconservation. The country’s state policy actively supports education, including environmental education. Significant attention is paid to fostering environmental culture among school students, university, and college students. Ecological clubs and study groups have been established, where young people can expand their knowledge of ecology, participate in environmental projects, conduct research, and share experiences with like-minded individuals. 98,7:ROTCAFTCAPMI.SECNEICSLACIDEM ,5202 ,hcraM,5emuloV gro.srehsilbupcimedaca.www The environmental education program includes the study of natural sciences, ecological ethics, biodiversity conservation issues, and the adoption of modern methods and technologies aimed at solving environmental problems. Specialized departments in ecology have been established in Uzbekistan’s universities, where students receive training in ecology and environmental management. In addition to educational institutions, various public and non-governmental organizations engaged in environmental activities play an important role in environmental education for youth. They conduct diverse training sessions, seminars, and conferences, inviting professionals in ecology and activiststo share their experiences andknowledge. Uzbekistan actively cooperates with international organizations such as the UN and UNESCO in the field of environmental education for youth. Experience exchanges are regularly conducted, and international conferences and projects are organized, contributing to the development of ecological thinking and increasing environmental culture among young people. However, despite all achievements and recognition in the international community, much remains to be done in developing environmental education and shaping ecological thinking among Uzbekistan’s youth. There is a need for more environmental clubs and organizations, expanded state support for environmental education, and the introduction of modern technologies andteaching methods. The creation of a strong ecological foundation among Uzbekistan’s youth holds long-term potential for the country's environmental situation. Young people with deep knowledge of ecology and an awareness of their role in environmental conservation become a driving force in national development and sustainability. Ecological thinking and education for Uzbekistan’s youth represent a commitment to environmental preservation and the creation of a sustainable future for future generations. Only by understanding our role in nature conservation and possessing knowledge and skills in ecology can we ensure the sustainable development of our country and the planet as a whole. Committeeof theSenateon theDevelopmentof theAral Sea Region andEcology