Delegations from Central Asian countries and international experts are gathering in Almaty, Kazakhstan, to address sustainable water and land management, energy, food security, and environmental sustainability in the context of climate change. The Central Asia Climate Change Conference (CACCC-2024) provides a platform for regional cooperation on climate issues.
Central Asia faces significant challenges due to climate change, including water scarcity, land degradation, and natural disasters. CACCC-2024 brings together over 400 participants from various sectors to review progress and challenges in implementing climate commitments. The conference also explores collective actions to mitigate climate-related disaster risks and enhance regional cooperation on adaptation strategies.
“Central Asia is vulnerable to the adverse effects of a rapidly changing climate,” said Zafar Makhmudov, Executive Director of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC). He emphasized the need for improved regional cooperation in energy and water resources management.
The conference also highlights the importance of climate finance. “Climate change is an urgent challenge,” stated Tatiana Proskuryakova, World Bank Regional Director for Central Asia. She stressed the necessity of adopting green policies and investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Caroline Milow from GIZ noted that the adoption of the Regional Climate Change Adaptation Strategy positions Central Asia ahead of many regions globally. She expressed optimism about the joint efforts among countries benefiting the Aral Sea Basin population.
Parallel to CACCC-2024, a training program for journalists from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan aims to raise awareness about climate issues. Supported by CAWEP and PROGREEN, this initiative seeks to enhance media professionals' capacity to communicate effectively about climate-related challenges.
The conference also serves as preparation for Central Asian governments' participation in UNFCCC COP29 scheduled for November 11-22, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan.
CACCC-2024 is organized by CAREC within several collaborative programs with support from multiple international organizations including GIZ GmbH and PROGREEN. The CAMP4ASB AF project is implemented by CAREC with financial backing from the World Bank and Green Climate Fund. The CAWEP partnership aims at improving water and energy security amid changing climatic conditions.