CAIAG researchers took part in the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) conference on climate change and sustainable management of natural resources

     On March 26, 2025, a conference organized by UNEP was held at the Orion Hotel in Bishkek, where the Digital Environmental Atlas of the Kyrgyz Republic was presented. According to the Atlas, over the last 60 years the temperature in Kyrgyzstan has increased by 1.2°C, which is twice the global average, which in turn leads to water scarcity and increased risks of natural disasters. The problems of pasture degradation and the impact of climate change on water resources critical for the country's hydropower plants were also discussed.

     The Director of UNEP European Office, Arnold Kreilhuber, noted the importance of the Atlas data for the country's adaptation to climate change. The conference was attended by staff members of the Central Asian Institute for Applied Geosciences (CAIAG), Usubaliev Ryskul Abdyjakypovich, Usupaev Sheishenaly Eshmanbetovich and Jantaev Marat Munduzbaevich, whose scientific work and research formed the basis of the Atlas.

     The conference was an important step in strengthening international cooperation and integrated water resources management, especially in the context of transboundary rivers in Central Asia. In conclusion, the participants expressed their support for initiatives to improve climate and ecosystem monitoring and to develop more sustainable practices in natural resource management to ensure long-term environmental security in the region.