Tashkent Unveils 2045 Green Belt Reforestation Strategy
The National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change has announced an extensive reforestation programme targeting Tashkent and its surrounding districts by 2045. The initiative aims to establish over 58,000 hectares of protective forest cover.
Central to this strategy is the «Green Belt» project, which involves planting more than 50 mln trees and shrubs. Planners are prioritising drought-resistant species capable of capturing airborne dust, setting a rigorous survival rate target of at least 85% for all new plantings. This initiative follows a directive from the President of Uzbekistan, building on the 1.35 mln trees already planted in the capital between 2022 and 2026.
Expanding the urban forest canopy
Recent progress has been significant, particularly between 2025 and 2026. During this period, the Kibray district saw the addition of 100,000 trees, while Bektemir and Tashkent districts gained approximately 38,000 and 20,000 trees respectively. Additionally, over 2,000 decorative plants were installed along the 4R-21 highway.
The next phase of the project, covering 2026–2027, will focus on significant land reclamation. Planned expansions include:
- Yangikhayot District: 21.21 hectares
- Sergeli District: 6.81 hectares
- Bektemir District: 40.1 hectares
- Chirchiq River Basin: 100 hectares spanning the Mirzo-Ulugbek, Yashnabad and Bektemir districts
The scope of the programme extends beyond protective forests to include comprehensive urban infrastructure improvements. Officials plan to develop botanical and dendrological gardens across a combined area of 385.3 hectares. Furthermore, the capital will gain nine new public parks, adding 139.6 hectares of dedicated green recreational space for residents.
