Uzbekistan to Prohibit High-Polluting Activities to Improve Air Quality

Uzbekistan ranks 23rd out of 134 countries in the annual air pollution index (IQAir), with its capital, Tashkent, experiencing high pollution levels, particularly during the fall and winter seasons. The air pollution in the city is responsible for approximately 3,000 premature deaths each year, making it a significant public health concern.

Government measures to improve air quality

In response to these challenges, Uzbekistan introduced a series of measures aimed at improving air quality, as part of a broader effort discussed at the first roundtable of the Uzbekistan Country Platform in 2025. Starting from May 1, 2025, the government will prohibit certain types of industrial activities in Tashkent, Nukus, and regional centers. These measures include restrictions on asbestos and cement production, as well as ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgical plants and glass factories that use toxic compounds.

Additionally, waste processing plants of hazard class 1 and 2, as well as any coal combustion methods that do not employ advanced dust and gas cleaning technologies, will be banned.

Fuel and energy sector reforms

Uzbekistan is also targeting the fuel and energy sectors as part of its air quality improvement plan. By the end of 2025, the country will enforce a ban on the use and sale of motor fuels that fall below the Euro 4 (AI-92) environmental standard. Currently, Euro-3 (AI-80) fuel, produced in Russia and Uzbekistan, is used within the country, but the government plans to phase it out in favor of cleaner alternatives. Additionally, the use of fuel oil in heating and electricity generation plants across all regions will be prohibited by the end of 2025.

Monitoring and long-term commitments

To better monitor air quality, the government plans to install 200 IQAir air quality sensors throughout the country. This initiative will help track pollution levels and provide more accurate data for future policymaking. Furthermore, Uzbekistan has launched the Clean Air – 2030 National Program, which outlines plans to enhance air quality in Tashkent and promote the development of environmental infrastructure. The program will prioritize public transport, reduce reliance on harmful fuels, and include the construction of artificial reservoirs to support sustainable urban development.