10-07-202656
On 15 November 2025, the Tashkent Regional Branch of the Sustainable Development Centre held a round table on the topic "Youth Participation in Biodiversity Conservation for the Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals" at School No. 26 in the city of Nurafshan, Tashkent Region.
The primary objective of the event was to enhance environmental literacy among the younger generation, foster a conscious and responsible attitude towards nature, and strengthen youth participation in the implementation of the ecological commitments enshrined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The round table brought together the school administration, representatives of local government and civil society organisations, environmental specialists, and engaged students. It was emphasised that biodiversity constitutes the fundamental basis of human life and that its conservation is one of the foremost priorities at the global level.
Branch Director Abdumannon Tulyaganov, in his presentation, contextualised the measures being implemented in Uzbekistan for the protection of biodiversity within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals. He highlighted the following key areas:
Conservation of biodiversity through state programmes — these measures are fully aligned with SDG 15 "Life on Land", which aims to ensure the sustainability of ecosystems through the protection of forests, nature reserves, and designated natural territories, while mitigating the risks of degradation and species loss.
The status of national parks and nature reserves — considered a critical instrument for nature conservation and the preservation of biodiversity, these measures also serve to advance SDG 15 and to maintain the resilience of local ecosystems.
Youth participation in ecological initiatives — through the "Eco-Ozodlik" campaigns and school environmental clubs, young people not only develop environmental literacy, but also support SDG 4 "Quality Education". This process cultivates a sense of responsibility towards nature and enables the younger generation to actively contribute to ecological sustainability.
Protection of birds, plants, and local ecosystems from extinction — the conservation of endangered species and the restoration of ecosystems are of critical importance for achieving SDG 15 and SDG 13 "Climate Action". These measures serve to mitigate both local and global environmental risks.
The measures outlined by Abdumannon Tulyaganov demonstrate that they are aimed not only at ensuring ecological sustainability at the local level, but also at protecting ecosystems in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and preserving a healthy environment for future generations.
Sustainable Development Centre expert Shodiyar Azizov delivered a presentation on the priority directions for achieving national goals and objectives in the field of sustainable development through 2030, and continued the event in an interactive question-and-answer format with the youth. He explained the importance of acquiring comprehensive knowledge in the contemporary world and encouraged young people to dedicate their efforts to the protection of nature, fostering their active engagement. The event thus proceeded in a constructive and productive atmosphere.
Throughout the event, it was emphasised that youth participation in ecological movements carries significant importance not only at the local level, but also within national and global sustainability strategies. Young people are regarded as: generators of innovative ideas, an active driving force in the implementation of ecological initiatives, and the primary guarantors of nature conservation for future generations.
In this connection, participants were also presented with mini-projects prepared by the school's students, as well as proposals for the protection of rare plant and animal species endemic to the region. This served as a further demonstration of the active contribution of young people to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the conservation of biodiversity.
At the conclusion of the round table, a series of practical proposals and recommendations were developed:
· Expanding the activities of environmental clubs in schools;
· Providing practical support for the "One Student — One Sapling" initiative;
· Organising eco-excursions to local natural areas;
· Holding competitions, awareness campaigns, and training sessions on biodiversity conservation among youth.
The round table held at School No. 26 in Nurafshan once again demonstrated the role and responsibility of young people in the process of sustainable development. The conservation of biodiversity is not merely an ecological imperative, but also a social and moral obligation. The active participation of youth serves as a critical factor in ensuring a healthy, sustainable, and safe environment for the future.