Uzbekistan rewards citizens for tree planting
Citizens and businesses to receive official “eco” status and rewards for environmental contributions in Uzbekistan
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Uzbekistan has approved a new set of measures aimed at boosting public participation in environmental protection, particularly through large-scale tree planting, under the nationwide “Yashil Makon” (Green Nation) program.
Under a presidential decree, individuals who plant at least 100 tree saplings or donate a minimum of UZS 10 million ($820) to the state-backed Green Charity Fund will be granted the статус of “eco-active citizen.”
Businesses will be eligible for the designation of “eco-partner” if they organize the planting of at least 1,000 trees or contribute UZS 100 million ($8,200) to the initiative. Companies awarded this status will also be permitted to use it in promoting their activities.
At a higher tier, individuals who ensure the planting of at least 50,000 trees or donate UZS 5 billion ($410,000) will receive the honorary title of “patron.”
The decree also introduces additional incentives for individuals who independently establish green public spaces. Those who create at least five gardens or parks in regions or in the capital, Tashkent, will be eligible for the state award “Kelajak bunyodkori” (“Builder of the future”), which includes a one-time monetary prize equivalent to 10 times the base calculation unit, along with other benefits provided by law.
The measures build on earlier environmental initiatives. In January 2025, authorities introduced benefits for environmentally active citizens, including proposals to grant “eco-active citizen” status to individuals promoting sustainable lifestyles, such as walking at least 10,000 steps daily. Eligible participants may receive discounts on public services and consumer loans from selected banks.
As part of broader sustainability reforms, Uzbekistan has also approved the creation of new public parks covering 139.6 hectares across nine regions. These areas will be designated as protected green zones aimed at supporting urban sustainability and preventing future construction.
The latest steps reflect the government’s expanding efforts to address environmental challenges and encourage grassroots participation in climate and ecological initiatives.