Webinar on EIP Master Planning

Tashkent, December 3-4, 2024 – An online seminar titled “Eco-Industrial Parks in Uzbekistan” was successfully conducted under the framework of the "Uzbekistan Eco-Industrial Parks Project," implemented by UNIDO in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. The event brought together directors and managers from Free Economic Zones (FEZs), Small Industrial Zones (SIZs), industrial clusters, and technoparks across Uzbekistan.

Igor Eromenko, GIZ Component Manager, opened the seminar with a welcoming speech, highlighting the importance of the seminar’s theme for fostering green industrialization in Uzbekistan. He emphasized GIZ’s ongoing support in promoting eco-friendly policies and practices in the country.

Tatiana Chernyavskaya, the UNIDO Project Manager, introduced the seminar’s program and objectives, underscoring the significance of EIP approaches in achieving sustainable industrial development.

On the first day, Oleg Rijichenko, the UNIDO Project Coordinator, provided an overview of the project’s progress and achievements. Following this, Temur Kovshov, representing the Institute of Legislation and Legal Policy under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, elaborated on the legislative efforts supporting cleaner production and sustainable planning in industrial zones.

Dr. Dick van Beers, an International Consultant, delivered an insightful presentation, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience gained from implementing EIP projects across Africa, Asia, and South America. With over 25 years of expertise in more than 30 countries, Dr. van Beers detailed practical aspects of EIP approaches, including industrial park planning and design, park management, industrial synergies, and resource efficiency. His prior positions include roles with the Centre on Sustainable Consumption and Production (Germany), GHD Engineering (Australia), Yale University’s Centre for Industrial Ecology (USA), and others. Participants greatly appreciated his comprehensive insights and requested access to his presentations for further study and application.

The seminar was conducted using interactive online tools, such as quizzes and Q&A sessions, to actively engage participants. Attendees were introduced to the principles, benefits, and tools of EIP development, including international best practices. Sessions explored strategies for optimizing infrastructure and utilities, risk management, and fostering industrial synergies. Additionally, UNIDO experts showcased tools such as the EIP Assessment Tool and the Master Plan EIP Review Tool, providing practical demonstrations of their applications.

The event resulted in enhanced understanding of EIP approaches and their potential benefits for FEZs, SIZs, and technoparks. Participants engaged in exchanges of experiences, fostering collaboration and learning, and identified actionable steps for transitioning Uzbekistan’s industrial zones to eco-industrial models.

Uzbekistan is actively advancing its green industrialization policies, reflecting the strategic importance of sustainable development. On November 20, 2024, during his address to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed declaring 2025 as the “Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy” (Atrof-muhitni asrash va “yashil” iqtisodiyot yili). The President highlighted the severe impacts of climate change on Uzbekistan and globally, emphasizing the urgency of adopting sustainable practices. He pointed to the success of national initiatives such as the “Yashil Makon” program and regional collaborations like the Central Asian Climate Strategy.

The President further announced that the government will develop a comprehensive state program focused on green technologies, water conservation, afforestation, addressing the Aral Sea crisis, and improving waste management. The program will prioritize public health and align with Uzbekistan’s broader green industrialization goals. This initiative reinforces the nation’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly economic development.

The seminar reflects the Uzbekistan Eco-Industrial Parks Project’s commitment to building capacity for sustainable industrial practices. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through GIZ, the project provides technical assistance to two pilot zones—FEZ Urgut in Samarkand and SIZ Mechanic in Fergana—while engaging stakeholders nationwide.