|
|
1st
Workshop on National
Biodiversity Strategies & Action Plans in Northeast and East Central Asia Experiences and Lessons 26 -28 April, 2000, Beijing, China |
Developing and Implementing National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP) :
Uzbekistan
Lessons from
INTRODUCTION
Geography and climate
The Republic of Uzbekistan is situated in the central part of the Eurasian continent between 37° / 45° latitude North and 56° / 73° latitude east, within the subtropical zone of the northern hemisphere. The territory covers approximately 447,400 km2, and is bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan to the south, Krgyzstan and Tajikistan to the east. The Republic is divided into 12 main administrative areas (oblasts) and the autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan in the north-western part of the country.
Almost 85% of its territory is occupied by desert or semi-desert, including the largest desert in Central Asia, the Kyzylkum. These deserts are flanked by the extensive Tien Shan and Gissar-Alai mountain systems in the east and south-east which occupy 15% of the territory. The main water arteries are the transboundary rivers, the Amu-Darya and the Syr-darya. which deliver their waters into the Aral Sea, a large part of which is within the territory of the republic. These rivers are flanked by broad, flat valleys which are intensely utilised for irrigated agriculture.
The climate of Uzbekistan is described as subtropical extremely continental with considerable seasonal and daily fluctuations of temperature—long dry hot summer, humid autumn and fluctuating weather in winter. The
interaction of three main factors are responsible for this climate, namely - solar radiation, general atmospheric circulation, and topographic relief. Solar radiation is particularly high, reaching up to 800 to 1,000 Mj/m2 in summer months. Winds are normally from the north-east, east or southeast in winter, and north, north-west or northeast in summer.There are three main climatic zones in Uzbekistan: deserts and dry semideserts (steppes), foothills, and mountains.
2. Economic Factors
The economy of Uzbekistan is dominated by agriculture which accounted for 44% of the national Net Material Product (NMP) in 1994 and 22.5% of GDP in 1996. Owing to the geographical / climatic situation of the country, only 10/11% of land is cultivated. There is a very high dependence on irrigated agriculture with 95% of all cultivated land being irrigated. In addition, the agricultural sector is heavily dominated by the production of raw cotton which in 1991 utilized approximately 70% of cultivated land and represents about 80% of the countries exports. However, in 1996 this had been reduced and cotton utilized 35% of irrigated land and constituted 38.1% of total exports. Other important agricultural crops include fruit/vegetables, wheat and rice. A process of crop diversification has started with a reduction of cotton in favor of grain crops. As a result land under grain production increased from 29% in 1992 to 35% in 1996. In addition to cotton, Uzbekistan is a substantial producer of other textile raw materials including silk and wool/astrakhan. Production of silk cocoons in 1996 equaled 30,000 tons of which 30% was exported.
Industry accounted for 17.4% of GDP in 1996 and nearly 13% of employment. Heavy industry represented 41% of the total industrial output in 1991, against 39% for light industry and 13% for agro-food processing. A growth rate of 6% was recorded in 1996. Leading industrial products were agricultural and textile machinery, textiles, aircraft and energy. Uzbekistan is endowed with rich mineral resources and has deposits of oil, gas, gold, silver, copper, lead, etc. There are 27,000 deposits/fields identified in the country, 900 of which are explored. Uzbekistan also has substantial energy resources including 74% of gas condensates in Central Asia, 31% of oil, 40% of gas and 55% of coal. Currently, 85% of energy is generated by thermo-electric stations and 15% by hydro-electric sources. The country has tripled production of oil since 1990 to 7.7 million tons and increased gas production by 20% to 49 billion m3 . By doing so, self-sufficiency in energy production has been achieved and the potential for substantial exports developed.
Economic Transition: In 1991 Uzbekistan declared its independence from the Soviet Union. At that time the economy of Uzbekistan, as part of the centrally planned Soviet system, was tightly integrated into those of other Republics. In response, Uzbekistan has been forced to undertake a systematic transformation of its economy, polity, and society. An important aspect of this transformation is the transition from a central planning to a more market orientated economy. So far Uzbekistan has been more successful than many other CIS countries in preventing sharp falls in outputs and incomes and an increase in poverty. The gradual approach of the government foresees three steps: i. arresting any further decline in production; ii. attaining macro economic stabilization as a basis for resumed growth; and iii. creating the conditions for sustainable growth. The decline of the Uzbekistan economy since 1990 has been relatively small compared to that of other CIS States, particularly surrounding countries such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Krgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Uzbekistan has only just achieved a positive economic growth rate, but it remains higher than in many other Former Soviet Union countries and has showed a generally increasing trend in recent years.
3. Human Population
Uzbekistan is the most populated country of Central Asia, and ranks third in the CIS in population, behind only Russia and Ukraine. By the beginning of 1997 the population had reached 23,349,500. The most outstanding demographic feature of Uzbekistan is the high birth-rate. Annually about 640,000 to 650,000 children are born in Uzbekistan, resulting in a population growth rate of 2.3% per year with birth-rate in rural areas being 40% to 50% higher than in the cities. The population doubling time is 30 years.
4. Environmental Policy and Management in Uzbekistan.
As part of the former Soviet Union, the Republic of Uzbekistan was subjected to a highly centralized approach to its social and economic development, which gave little regard to the impact of policy on the environment. As a result, the Republic is faced with a severe deterioration of its ecological situation. The unsustainable pattern of agricultural development was the main contributor to the present water crisis. The irrevocable overuse of water resources resulted in the sharp reduction of the flow of the rivers Amu-Darya and Syr-darya to the Aral Sea, which has dramatically shrunk as a result. Retrospective analyses show that quite a number of planned ecological programmes were not implemented at all or were implemented only partially.
Uzbekistan's independence and integration into the world economy and political system have provided a powerful incentive for achieving greater human welfare for its people and for the solution of its pressing ecological problems. The protection of the environment in the Republic is considered an integral part of the whole process of economic reforms. The social and economic policies of the state are based on the principles of achieving harmonisation of production and environment, and promoting awareness of the gravity of the country's ecological problems.
The ecological safety of citizens is now guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic. Environmental legislation has established economic and social provisions for the ecological security of the population, on the basis of generally accepted principles of environmental protection and rational use of natural resources. According to Article 55 of the Constitution, land, water, wildlife, plants, and other natural resources are all part of the country's national wealth and therefore must be protected by the state. Uzbekistan signed (1999) and ratified (2000) the Aarchus agreement on the open social access to the ecological information.
An appropriate level of funding for ecological programmes is to be attained through the central budget, a system of regional foundations for the protection of nature, nongovernmental ecological funds, and new finance and credit mechanisms developed within the context of the transition to a market economy.
5. Institutional, administrative and legal system
Legislative Framework
National legislation. The Forestry Code was adopted on June 26, 1978. It regulates use and restoration of forestry resources and responsibility of juridical and nature protection persons when using forestry resources. It is currently under review.
The law "On protection and use of wildlife" was adopted in 1982. It states legal acts aimed at protection, sustainable use, and reproduction of wildlife.
The law "On land " was adopted on June 20, 1990, with changes and additions, made by the Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Nov. 20, 1991, on May 6 1993, and on September 23, 1994. It is directed at the regulation of land-related arrangements with the purpose of providing for rational use and protection of land, maintaining the fertility of soils, saving and improving of the natural environment, and for equivalent development of all forms of management.
The law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On protection of nature " which was adopted on December 9, 1992: This law installs legal, economic and organisational principles of saving the natural environment, rational use of natural resources, protection of ecological systems, natural complexes and separate objects. It guarantees the rights of the citizens to live in favourable environment. It determines powers of official bodies and departments in the field of nature protection.
The law "On specially protected natural territories" was adopted on May 7 1993. It determines legal, organisational and economic principles of handling of especially protected natural territories.
The law of Republic the Uzbekistan "On water and water use " was authorised on May 6, 1993. It regulates the water related aspects, rational use of waters for needs of the population and national economy. The law regulates protection of water from contamination and exhausting, prevention and liquidation of harmful effect of water, improving of water objects, and also protection of the rights of firms and establishments, organisations, private farms and citizens in the field of the water management
The Law "On undersurface resources", directed at the regulation of the management, protection and use of such resources was adopted on September 22, 1994.
The Law "On protection of atmospheric air" was adopted on December 1996.
In addition to the above, regulation in the field of protection of valuable and endangered species of plants and animals in the republic, is carried out on the basis of the Resolutions of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan of September 3, 1993, No. 937-XI1 " On greater protection of valuable and vanishing plants and animals and regulating their use ", Resolution of Cabinet of Ministers of the republic a Uzbekistan of December 15, 1993, No. 600 "About measures on strengthening of protection of the wild animals and plants and regulation of their use" and "Instruction of the Cabinet of the Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan of February 11 1996, No. 76-F about regulation of import/export of predatory birds in the Republic of Uzbekistan".
The order of hunting and fishery in Uzbekistan is carried out according to the above mentioned laws, and also with the "Ordinance On hunting and support of a hunting and fishing facilities on the territory of the Republic", authorised by Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers on April 1, 1991, No. 95, and also "Rules of hunting and fishery on territory of the Republic", authorised by orders of State Nature Protection Committee of June 8, 1992 and January 5, 1993 and 1997. New laws for protection and sustainable use of wildlife and flora were developed: the Laws “On protection and use of wild fauna” (was adopted in 1997), “On protection and use of wild flora” (was adopted in 1998).
Some aspects of legal regulation of nature use and the protection of the natural environment are placed in the laws "On the property in the Republic of Uzbekistan", "On enterprises in the Republic of Uzbekistan", and "On rent". The Decrees of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of January 21, 1994 " On measures on further deepening of economic reforms, support to private property and development of business " and of November 24, 1994 "On increasing the efficiency of land use" also contain norms relating to the legal mode of land use.
The regulations of use and protection of certain natural resources are controled by the resolutions of Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan. They include the resolutions of the Cabinet Ministers of August 3, 1993, No. 385 " On limited water use ", of July 27, 1995, No. 293 "On introduction of rates for calculation of damage caused to the vegetative world of the Republic of Uzbekistan ," of May 27, 1992, No. 248 "On introduction of an order of registration of materials on withdrawal and allocation of land for non-agricultural needs in the Republic of Uzbekistan ", of April 7, 1992, No. 174 "On endorsement of a procedure for water protective zones of reservoirs and other water bodies, rivers, trunk channels and collectors, as well as sources of potable and domestic water supply, medical and rehabilitation facilities in the Republic of Uzbekistan”.
For violation of the nature protection legislation the following responsibility is foreseen: administrative, criminal, civil-law (material), disciplinary, and economic penalties. On September 22,1994 the Code "On the administrative responsibility" and Criminal Code were adopted, where there are envisaged accordingly administrative and criminal liability for ecological offences.
Use of biological resources is regulated by a range of legal controls including "Forest Code" (26.07.78), "Law On Protection of Nature" (9.12.92), "Law On Natural Resources" (22.09.94). In addition, there are a number of relevant special "Resolutions of Parliament" such as: the Resolution on greater protection of valuable and vanishing plants and the regulation of their use (03.09.93); Resolution about measures on strengthening of protection of wild animals and plants and regulation of their use (15.12.93); Instruction on import/export of predatory birds (11.02.96); Ordinance on hunting (01.04.91).
The State Biological Control Service, is the main agency responsible for ensuring regulation of biological resource use in accordance with laws and resolutions, for setting quota's in accordance with expert advise of the Academy of Science, and for issuing licences for exploitation on the basis of set quota's .
There is a uniform licensing system for hunting of animals and catching of fish in Uzbekistan. Licenses (permissions) for individual pleasure hunters and fishermen are issued by the Society of Hunters and Fishermen. State and commercial organisations, as well as foreign citizens get licenses from the the State Biological Control Service under the State Committee for Nature Protection.
Export of wild animals in Uzbekistan is done in compliance to the International Rules of Trade of Wild Animals, with licenses issued by CITES. The only species said to be currently exported in significant number is the Central Asian tortoise. Fifteen thousand '' animals were exported in 1995 and 7,500 in 1996 (according to quotas in effect during those years). Of other animals, only song and decorative birds bred in private collections are officially moved out of the country.
International Legislation. At this time the Republic of Uzbekistan has joined: the UN Frame Convention on Climatic Change (May 1993.), the Vienna Convention on Protection of the Ozone Layer, and Montreal Protocol on substances destroying ozone layer (May, 1993.), the International Biodiversity Convention (October, 1995), the Basle Convention on control of trans-border transportation of dangerous waste and their disposal (December, 1995.). Uzbekistan has ratified the UN convention on Combating Desertification in those countries, which face serious drought and / or desertification (August, 1995.). The republic exhibits large interest in international conventions which are directed at saving biological resources. Uzbekistan has signned convention on trade in endangered species of fauna and flora (CITES) (1997), the Bonn convention on protection of migratory species of animals (1998) and Ramsar convention on protection of wetlands (2000).
In addition, within the framework of the Bonn convention the following Memorandums were signed: the Memorandum of Understanding on saving of Siberian crane (1996), on protection of thin-beaked curlew (1996), on protection of Afro-Eurasian migrating water birds (1996).
Institutional Context of Biodiversity Conservation
The State Committee for Nature Protection (SCNP) is the main specially authorised overall coordinating organ for nature protection. Its basic tasks are as follows:
- Implementing governmental control over protection of natural environment, use of and restoration of natural resources;
- Implementing inter-sectorial system management of nature-protective activities;
- Developing and implementing unified nature-protective and resource-saving policies;
- Taking other actions toward a ecologically sustalnable and healthy environment;
- Managing protected areas, and ensuring integrity of their protection regime;
The State Committee for Nature Protection includes 11 departments. Besides this , there are two specialised National inspections within State Committee for Nature Protection: State Biological Control Service responsible for conservation of flora and fauna and reserves management; State Inspection of Specialised Analytical Control.
A certain role in protection of flora and fauna is played by other ministries and departments, the most important of which are the Committee for Forestry of Ministery of Agriculture and Water Managtment (CF)and the concern "Uzfish" which in the government structure have departmental inspections on protection of biological resources.
Union of Hunters and Fishermen of Uzbekistan is a national-level NGO using, on a long-term basis, game and fishery lands, conserved by an agency-based gamekeeping service.
Existing Protected Areas System
Categories of Protected Areas: In Uzbekistan there are currently four basic categories of protected areas: State Reserves (Zapovedniks), State National Parks, Special State Reserves (Zakazniks), and State Natural Memorials (Table). Currently, the protected areas system consists of nine State Reserves (Zapovedniks) with area of 2164 km2, two National Parks with total area of 6061 km", one Biosphere Reserve (452 km2), nine Special State Reserves (Zakazniks) with the area totalling 12,186.5 km2, and one captive breeding centre for rare animals. The total protected area in Uzbekistan is 20,520 km2 which equals about 4.6 % of the Republics territory. However, in terms of strict / long term protection (i.e. IUCN Category I and II including the National Parks, Biosphere Reserve and State Reserves) only 8,171 km2 or 1.8 % of the Republic's territory is covered. (Table).
Distribution by Ecotype Over half of the over all protected areas system consists of desert ecosystems (53%). Mountain ecosystems dominate the remaining areas (34%). Wetlands include about 6% of the system and tugai gelery forest consists of about 1%. In terms of Category I and II areas, mountain ecosystems equal almost the total area, with Tugai being the only other category represented (about 0.2%). Desert, Tugai and Wetlands ecosystems are therefore extremely badly represented in Category I and II protected areas.
Table Summary Data of Protected Areas
No.
Official name and year of foundation
Location
Area km2
IUCN Category
Agency
State
Strict Reserves (Zapovedmks)
Chatkal mountain forestry biosphere reserve 1947
Tashkent province, Parkent and Akhangaran districts
356.8
I
SCNP
"
Gissar mountain archa reserve 1983
Kashkadarya province, Yakkabag and Shaknsabz districts
8143
I
SCNP
Zaamin mountain archa reserve 1926, 1960
Djizak province, Zaamin and Bakhmal districts
2684
I
CF
4
Badai-Tugai steppe-tugai 1971
Republic ofKarakalpakstan, Beruni and Kegeli districts
646
I
CF
5
Kyzylkum tugai-sand reserve 1971
Bukhara province, Romitan district, Khorezm province, Druzbinski district
l0l4
I
CF
6
Zerafshan lowland tugai reserve 1975
Samarkand province, Bulungur and Jambay districts
235
I
CF
7
Nuiatin mountain wallnut-tree reserve 1975
Jizak province. Parish district
177.5
I
CF
> о
Kitab geological reserve 1979
Kashkadarya province, Kitab district
537
I
CF
9
Surkhan mountain forestry reserve, 1987
Surkhandarya region, Sherabad and Termez districts ,
2767
I
CF
Total area
2136.9
State
National Parks
1
Zaamin People's Park 1976
Djizak region, Zaamin district
241 1
II
CF
2
Ugam-Chatkal Natural National Park 1990
Tashkent region, Bostanlyk, Parkent and Akhangaran distr.
5745.9
II
CF
Total area
59870
Nurse
sues for Rare Animals
1
Ecocenter "leyran" 1976
Bukhara region
51 4
III
SCNP
Total area
51 4
State
Reseives tor Special Purposes с
эг with Relaxed Protection Regime (Za
(azniks)
1
Ainasay 1983
D)izak region
6330
IV
Uzfish
2
Kaiakul 1990
Bukhara region
1000
IV
SCNP
3
Saygachy 1991
Republic of Karakalpakstan
10,0000
IV
SCNP
4
Sydochy 1991
Republic ofKarakalpakstan
5000
IV
SCNP
5
Sarmysh 1991
Navoi region
252
IV
SCNP
6
Kaiakir 1992
Bukhara region
3000
IV
SCNP
7
Karnabchul 1992
Samarkand region
4000
IV
SCNP
8
Koshrdbad 1992
Samarkand region
1650
IV
SCNP
9
Dengizkul 1992
Bukhara region
860
IV
SCNP
1 otal area
122392
State
Natural Memorials
1
Vaiddiizi(l975), 1983
Bukhara region
30
IV
CF
2
Yazyavan 1991
Fergana and Namangan regions
31 8
IV
SCNP
Total area
348
Ex-situ Conservation
There are two zoological gardens (one in Tashkent, one in Termez) and a botanical garden (Tashkent) in Uzbekistan.
Tashkent zoological garden was founded in 1924 by a group of zoologists from the Central Asian University as a research / education establishment. One hundred and twenty four species are kept on the territory of 3.2 hectares. The basic direction of its activity is the creating of collections of rare and endangered animal species included in the International and Republican Red Book, their captive breeding, and increasing people's awareness of the country's wildlife. A new zoo, created on a portion of the Botanic garden's territory, was publicly opened in Tashkent on 1st of September, 1997. The design of the new zoo fully complies with international rules and regulations in the field.
Botanic garden: Named after academician F. Rusanov, it was organised in 1922 on the area of 8 hectares and originally belonged to Central Asian State University. Since 1944 it has been managed by the Academy of Sciences. In 1953 it was transferred to a new site with an area of 80 hectares. Since 1999 it has had the status of a research department of Institute of Botany, Academy of Sciences. There are studies on species requiring much effort for reproduction, for preservation of rare and vanishing species, their duplication, and introduction in nature. In the collection of live plants more than 6000 species, forms and species from the temperate zone are collected. Other Activity: Since 1991, the State Biological Control Service has being implementing, jointly with JV 'Denis,' a project for captive breeding of Saker falcons. During the last 5 years 27 chicks have been successfully reared. In 1996, for the first time ever, 11 examples were reintroduced into their natural habitats. Based on the same centre, a similar project dealing with Houbara bustard has recently got underway.
Scientific Collections
The activity with collections is a necessary component of measures monitoring and preservation of diversity. Uses include:
- a major source of information for assessment of natural diversity of flora and fauna of the region;
- allow to objectively characterise change of flora and fauna for a historical period;
- study of geographical and population variability, drawing up of distribution maps;
- are necessary for identification of biological species while conducting research activities and examinations;
- are a database for drawing up of the directories, monographs, popular scientific activities;
- are necessary during nature protective training and educational activity.
Collections of Animals
Profile
Holder
Volume
Contents
Stutted Birds
Tashkent state University, Tashkent City
202
563 species from 19 orders Many are represented by series 241 new description 71 species /subspecies
Institute of Zoology, Academy of Sciences
56
341 species from 18 orders
Nature Museum, Tashkent city
14
224 species from 14 orders
Birds' Eggs
Tashkent Sate University
662 laying
from 111 species representing 9 orders
Nature Museum, Tashkent city
54 laying
from 39 species representing 9 orders
Stuffed Mammals
Institute of Zoology, Academy of Sciences
67
83 species from 6 orders Kept as skulls/skins
Tashkent Sate University
26
93 species from 7 orders
Mammals' Skulls
"jeyran" Ecocentre
0,244
Skulls of animals died on the territory of the Ecocentre
Reptiles
Institute of Zoology, Academy of Sciences
16
70 species altogether including 44 species of lizards, 22 snakes', 2 tortoise's, and 2 amphibians'
Insects
Nature Museum, Tashkent city
3350
472,000 examples are systematised. Insecta and Chelicerata classes
Ditto
Institute of Zoology, Academy of Sciences
55
Representatives of three orders straight-winged, semihard-winged and tail-winged Beetles are represented most 17 families
Parasites
Uzbekistan anti-plague station
1000
Rodent's fleas and 3 groups of ticks About 30% - embalmed preparations, 70 % - wet preparations
Live spiders
Institute of Zoology, Academy of S ciences
10 spider species of Central Asia. Exists for more than 10 years
Education, Training and Public Participation
Uzbekistan has a highly developed education system with almost full literacy and high school / higher education facilities. The system of school education has specialised schools with a more detailed teaching of certain subjects. In terms of the system of professional schools, only a few have biology/ecology related courses in their curricula.
At the level of higher education ecology and biodiversity related programmes are concentrated in biological departments of universities and in medical and agricultural schools. Twelve higher education institutions have ecology chairs. The Biological departments of state universities educate specialists majoring in 'biology' and 'ecology and nature protection.' Forestry specialists are educated at the Forestry Department of the Tashkent Agricultural University.
Uzbekistan totals 8919 regular schools, 471 professional schools, and 55 higher education institutions. Legal provisions for education. The law 'On education' of the republic of Uzbekistan (July, 1992) states a mandatory 9-year basic education and provides for opportunities of free professional and higher education. It also allows for fee paid professional and higher. Up to 7 languages of instruction are used in the regular school system. However, professional and higher education uses only Uzbek and Russian.
The Cabinet of Ministers is made legally responsible (article 9 of the law 'On nature protection' (Dec., 1992)) for creating systems of ecological awareness and education. There are no special laws on ecological education.
Regular schools are managed by 5 ministries/agencies (mostly the Ministry of Public Education), professional schools exist in the structures of 22 ministries/agencies, and higher education institutions belong to 12 ministries/agencies (mostly the Ministry of Higher Education).
About 10 to 12% of GDP is spent on education. The shrinkage of resources has become noticeable among educational organisations, particularly regular schools. Teachers wages are low (60% of the average for the entire national economy). Sponsorship in the state educational system is underdeveloped.
A significant role in promoting an ecological 'vision' of the world is played by various NGO's, circles, clubs, and ecological Sunday schools. These tend to be concentrate Funding sources for them can be membership fees, charity, and various donor organisations.
NGO's and Public / Private Participation in Biodiversity Protection
There are more than 30 environmental/public health NGO's in the country, 13 of which are officially registered. The largest are the International Foundation "Ecosan", the Red Crescent's Society, which have direct governmental support; Uzbek Zoological Society (member of IUCN). - more then 300 members. Membership of other NGO's is limited (2 to 20 people). There are many spheres of NGO activities connected with biodiversity conservation involving environmental conservation issues per se and eco-education, information and propaganda.
However, before NGO's potential for the development of biodiversity conservation and sustainable use can be fully realised, it will be necessary for the government to complete relevant legislative reform and for state organisations to more fully recognise/involve NGO's in activities. In addition, NGO's will need to develop a broader membership, and improve their resource base and management capacity. International development agencies and the government will need to support this process.
NBCSAP: ORIGIN, BACKGROUND, SCOPE AND OBJECTIVES
1. The Biodiversity Convention (CBD) and Uzbekistan
In the past, biodiversity protection was not a significant concern in the development programmes of most countries. In recent years, however, that has begun to change as a widening understanding and appreciation of the problems faced in the world and importance of biodiversity in that context has developed. Today, the protection of biological diversity has become a recognised priority on the global agenda and thus also within the development goals and plans of nations. A key step in this direction is the Convention on Biological Diversity, which was signed at the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development ("Rio Earth Summit") by 156 countries. It entered into force as international law in 1993 and by the end of 1995, nearly 120 nations had ratified the convention, including Uzbekistan (October, 1995 signed in Jakarta; December, 1995 ratified).
2. National Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan
Background: In accordance with the policy of the Government of Uzbekistan and its priority obligation under the convention, the Republic initiated a project to develop a national biodiversity strategy and action plan which recieved support from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) and technical assistance of UNDP. Project implementation was by the State Committee for Nature Protection but included participation of stakeholders from national and local government, and NGO's. The National Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan document was prepared during 1997 by the National Biodiversity Strategy Project Steering Committee leaded by Mr. Khabibullaev, Chairman of State Committee for Nature Protection, approved by Chairman of the Cabinet Of Ministers, Presient of The Republic of Uzbekistan Mr. I.A.Karimov at 1 April 1998 (Decree No.139) and printed as a separate issue in 3 languages: Russian (original), Uzbek and English. It was also act as Uzbekistan's first National Report to the CBD International Conference of Parties (COP-4, Bratislava). There was 61 main experts who took part in development of NBCSAP of the republic of Uzbekistan. The Project Implenentation Team was leded by Prof., Dr. Sc., Corr. M. UzAS, President of Uzbek Zoological Society Mr. J. Azimov. It was a wide range of people who provided inputs, comments and suggestions which contributed to the NBCSAP, particularly NGO representatives and the Regional Consultative Worshop participants.
Purpose and Scope: The purpose of the national biodiversity strategy of Uzbekistan is to provide an overall unified policy and planning framework for the management of biodiversity resources in the country. All future activities in this field should therefore fit within this agreed framework. The creation of the strategy will provide clear direction for national planning and also a mechanism for ensuring well targeted and effective programme / project development. In addition, it will provide donors with a clear framework within which to provide assistance. By necessity the scope of the biodiversity strategy is limited to those issue with direct relation to biodiversity conservation and use in the country. Indirect issues, such as water management, though they may be of critical importance to biodiversity, are not specifically addressed as these fall under the coverage of other sectorial plans / programmes.
Methodology: The methodology for the preparation of the document was based, where appropriate or feasible, on the "Guidelines" for Country Study on Biological Diversity (UNEP, 1993), the Guide to the Convention on Biodiversity Convention (IUCN, 1994) and the Guidelines for Preparing Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (WRI/IUCN/ UNEP).
3. The Relationship of the Biodiversity Strategy and Other Processes and Activities in Uzbekistan
Since independence from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) Uzbekistan has been undergoing fundamental economic, political and social changes. Some of the greatest challenges for the new Republics, and particularly Uzbekistan, has been to address the legacy of critical environmental and land use problems that resulted from the unsustainable policies of the FSU in the region. In response to these challenges a number of national and regional initiatives, almost all of which have direct or indirect implications for biodiversity, have been set in motion. These include:
National Action Plan for Environment Protection and Ecological Provisions for Uzbekistan's Sustainable Development (NAPEESD): It was prepared with the assistance of the World Bank. The biodiversity strategy was incorporated into the NAPEESD as one of its major components. The NAPEESD is ensure a unified approach to environmental planning and ensure components are interrelated and supportive.
The National Sustainable Development Commission (NSDC): The NSDC, which is currently being established with the assistance of UNDP, will shortly be responsible for guiding the future Sustainable development within the Republic. Part of its responsibilities will include initiating policies, strategies and action plans to achieve Sustainable development, monitoring their effective implementation, and their review, revision or updating. Therefore, central to its responsibilities will be the effective and integrated implementation of the Rio "Earth Summit" conventions to which Uzbekistan is a signatory. A major instrument for achieving the above will be the NAPEESD, including its biodiversity component.
International Conventions on "Climate Change" and "Combating Desertification": A GEF project to carry out a country study on climate change in Uzbekistan is ongoing with UNDP assistance and preparations to produce a national desertification action plan are underway with "UNEP/UNDP support. Both of these have a significant overlap and interrelation with the biodiversity issues and unified actions on all three sectors should ensure concrete progress for addressing critical environmental problems in the Republic. However, it is important to ensure co-ordination and synergy of action.
Transboundary Biodiversity Project (Western Tien Shan Mountains): This is a GEF/cost sharing project for approximately US$ 18 Million was prepared by the World Bank/Governments of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Krgyzstan. Briefly the project will have the following basic components: a. Development of Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan for Krgyzstan Republic (the BSAP for Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan was prepared with assistance of UNDP); b. Strengthening of policies , regulations, and institutional arrangements; c. Development of programmes to support the Sustainable use of natural resources by local communities in the W. Tien Shan; d. Development of financing mechanisms, capable of duplication in the region, which will assist protected areas in meeting recurrent costs; e. Encourage regional co-operation and harmonisation of environmental standards. Implementation is envisaged as beginning in mid 1998. This corresponds closely with the completion and official approval for the National Biodiversity Strategy and the start of the Biodiversity Action Plan for Uzbekistan. The National Biodiversity Strategy will providing the necessary strategic and institutional framework for the Transboundary project implementation, which in turn should ensure that the momentum engendered by the development of the Strategy and Action Plan is maintained and practical results realised. The Transboundary project will therefore be highly beneficial in helping to bring about the critical move from policy development to action.
Aral Sea Programme (World Bank/ UNDP/ UNEP): The programme is intended to address the long term water and land use management problems of the region while in the short / medium term providing support to address the immediate needs of populations within the worst effected areas. In addition to the long term implications the programme has for more rational natural resource management in the region there are also three programmes with specific importance to biodiversity in Uzbekistan, namely Sub-programmes: 4.1 -Amu-Darya Delta Wetlands Restoration (started in 1999); 4.3-Environmental Studies (including biodiversity assessment -started in 1998); and 6 - Integrated Land and Water Management in the Upper Watershed (started in 1998).
Lake Sudochye Wetlands Restoration Project (GEF/World Bank): This project (started in 1999) forms a component of the Aral Sea Program and is aimed at ensuring the preservation / restoration of the Lake Sudochye Wetlands area in the Amu Darya delta, so as to conserve important and highly endangered biodiversity, improve socio-economic conditions in the area (grazing, fishing, muskrat and other wildlife harvesting and improved drainage of farm lands), and improve regulation of drainage water discharges through a major collector canal. The Lake Sudochye area is of particular value for migratory birds (West Asian Flyway) and is proposed as a potential "Ramsar" Convention site.
National Environmental Information Network For Uzbekistan (UNEP/GRID - Arendal) (started in 1999): As part of their Environment and Natural Resources Information Network (ENRIN) in Countries in Transition programme GRID-Arendal are assisting the governments of Central Asia in the development of National Enviromental Information Networks. In Uzbekistan an initial assessment has been completed and a feasibility study is underway. In addition to national efforts a regional Environmental Information Network for the Aral Sea Basin is being developed within the Aral Sea Programme. Currently, one of the major problems for effective environmental planning, including biodiversity planning, is the lack of accessibility to unified and accurate data for decision makers. The above projects will therefore be of enormous value for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use planning in the future.
Nuratau Biosphere Reserve Proposal (NABU) (started in 1999):
The German Federation for Nature Conservation (NABU) is working together with the state organisations responsible (Committee for Forestry of Ministry of Agriculture and State Committee for Nature Protection) to "preserving or restoring nature in the Nuratau Nature Reserve and adjacent district, and promoting sustainable economic development and ecological development of the region". For this purpose, the Uzbek parties involved have committed themselves to submitting application documentation to UNESCO for certification as an international biosphere Reserve. If implemented, this project, like the Western Tien Shan Biodiversity Project (see above), will be important in putting strategic objectives into concrete actions and providing practical and tested models for other areas in the country.
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Biodiversity Strategy: Both Kazakhstan and Krgyzstan will be producing National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans shortly (1998) and it is assumed. Turkmenistan and Tajikistan (political conditions allowing) will follow in the future. Clearly, it is important that every effort should be made to ensure the integration and compatibility of each countries plans and ideally an integrated regional biodiversity strategy and action plan could be feasible in the long term future.
Action Plan for the Sustainable Development of Tourism in Uzbekistan Project (UNDP):
This project which started in 1995 is intended to provide the guidance for the controlled development of tourism through the preparation and implementation of an action plan and assistance in the areas of policy direction, infrastructure development, and international marketing and training. Important considerations are to improve the institutional structures / staff capacities and also to provide a framework conducive to attracting private sector investment / involvement in tourism. This project has some important implications for protected areas management, and the potential economic benefits that can be gained from rational utilisation of biodiversity resources, as it will provide for a more workable situation within the country regarding the development of appropriate eco-tourism.
There is a big activity to provide special biodiversity conservation projects of Academy of Sciences and ecological NGO in Uzbekistan. Some of them are: “ The working out of general scheme of development and disposition of Special Protected Areas in Uzbekistan” (Government of Uzbekistan); “Correlations of the extinction risk of biodiversity in Cental Asia” (INTAS); “Important Birds Areas in Uzbekistan” (NABU); “Snow leopard conservation and education project” (ISLT, SEN); “Bukhara Deer conservation project” (WWF-Int., WWF-Pakistan); “Centalasian Swallowtails research conservation project” (J.&K. McArtur Foundation), "Biological control of aliens invasive species of plants" (CABI-Biosciences), etc.
4. Biological diversityEcosystems
The territory of Uzbekistan is divided into two significantly different geophysical parts: i.e. lowlands and mountains. Within these parameters, five bio-geographical zones occur, which are distinguished by certain differences in the main characteristics of their ecological conditions and in composition and structure of their flora and fauna. These include:
1. Desert ecosystems of lowlands or plains
2. Piedmont semi-desert and steppe
3. Riverine ecosystems in, and peripheral to, major rivers
4. Wetland and delta ecosystems
5. Mountain ecosystems.
Each zone embraces diverse complex of natural components that condition development toward, and functioning of, certain flora and fauna associations.
Table: Main Natural Territorial Complexes
NATURALCOMPLEX
TERRITORAL ES
Area (km3)
%
Desert
Sandy desert
9870
22
Clayey desert, clay-pan desert
13185
29
Detritus desert and residual heights
1700
4
Saline-land desert
1310
3
Wetlands
River flood-lands and lakes
1541. 3
3
Desert steppe and grassland steppe
Piedmont semi-deserts
459
1
Dry mountain steppe
365
1
Forested and grassland mountain
Deciduous mountain forests and shrubs
218.2
0.4
Juniper ('Archa') forests
85.6
0.2
Species Richness, Endemism and Rarity
The biodiversity of Uzbekistan includes more than 27,000 species (Appendix). Among these, animals are represented by over 15,000 species, while plants, fungi, and algae total about 11,000 species. Of invertebrates, arthropods constitute the largest group. The majority of species belongs to insects among which 7 large orders are outstanding for species diversity ranging from 350 to 3000.Vertebrates are represented by 5 classes comprising 676 species.
The territory of Uzbekistan is a valuable habitat for endemic animal species of Central-Asian origin. Several species originated and evolved in the area between the Amu-Darya and Syr-darya rivers, and expanded to other Central-Asian regions. So far, vertebrates known to be endemic to Uzbekistan/Central Asia include 53 species and subspecies (Table ). Endemism rate among fishes is as high as 52%.
Table Endemism Rate among Terrestrial Vertebrates in Uzbekistan
Classes
Total Number of Species
Number of Endemics
Percent of Endemics
Reptiles
58
30
51. 7
Birds
424
8
1. 8
Mammals
97
15
15.4
Sum total
579
53
9.2
Flora of Uzbekistan is represented by at least 48,000 species of vascular plants, belonging to 650 genera and 115 families. Endemism rate is rather low and equals 8% (or 400 species) of the total number of species. Relic endemic species count 10 to 12% of all endemics.
Threats to biodiversity
The main threat to biodiversity in Uzbekistan is habitat loss and major habitat alteration. The following three groups of human-activity factors have the strongest impact on natural ecosystems in Uzbekistan:
- Developing new lands for agriculture, accompanied by redistribution water resources through irrigation.
Use of natural territories for pastures.
Mining and energy industries.
Generally, the above cause the following impacts: intensified desertification; increased load on pastures and overgrazing; irrigation and ploughing up followed by soil salinisation and lands becoming unusable; river flow control; constructing of hydroelectric power stations; agricultural activities and disturbing of hydro-balance in upper water-catchment areas; cutting down riverine and gallery forests; dredging river bottoms for sand and gravel; unstable water regime with drastic fluctuations of water-table level and salinisation; pollution with pesticides, polydichlorpeniles, and heavy metals; logging forests; collecting wild plants; illegal hunting; damaging recreation.
Excessive development of the irrigated agricultural sector has resulted in expansion of irrigated lands in the region from about 25,850 km2 in 1955 to 42,218 km2 by 1990 and increase in water use, which has reduced flow into the Aral Sea from about 68 km3 in 1960 to about 6 km3 in 1989.
Compared to the arable agriculture, changes in the development of the livestock sector since independence are possible much faster because there is less dependence on a centralised system and the water infrastructure. Thus, individuals are rapidly increasing livestock numbers to meet short term economic objectives at the expense of damage to sensitive arid ecosystems. This will become a major threat to desert, steppe and, to a lesser extent, mountain ecosystems unless carefully regulated.
Though industrial and municipal threats are, in comparative terms. Of less significance than those connected with agriculture, the development of industry and municipal use of resources has had a significant impact, mainly through additional pollution of water thus contributing to the threat on aquatic / semi-aquatic systems, hi addition, the mining / metalwork industries has had a significant impact in parts of the country, particularly on desert ecosystems.
Ecosystems and species under severe threat (biodiversity hotspots)
The most impacted ecosystems belong to: lowland territories; flood-lands and riverine areas being developed for irrigated agriculture; wetlands; the Aral Sea region.
So far, some level of damage has been inflicted on 80% of clay desert territory, 95% of riverine areas, 20% of sandy desert (90% in the Fergana Valley), and 40% of mountain areas.
River flood plains and riverine areas have suffered large scale clearance of natural vegetation cover and conversion to irrigated fields. Further loss or degradation has been caused by high levels of salinisation, waterlogging, and agro-chemical pollution, caused by poor agricultural practices.
Aquatic and semi-aquatic systems are highly sensitive to increased salinisation of water and pollution with agro-chemicals. In addition, widespread changes in natural hydrological cycles resulting from development and management of water control infrastructure for irrigation has significantly altered aquatic environmental conditions resulting in species and habitat decline or loss. The introduction of numerous exotic fish species has likewise altered ecological balances.
The Aral Sea basin, which is the hydrological sink for almost the entire Central Asia region, is the area which has suffered the worst impacts from the development of irrigated agriculture. The expanded and inefficient use of irrigation water resulted in a rapid decline of inflow to the sea causing its level to drop drastically. The major direct impact has been the threefold increase of salinity and a resulting extinction of most life-forms.
Extinction of a number of vertebrates, because of their habitat degradation or as a result of actual extermination, is vividly exemplified by big mammals. The habitats of several representatives of ungulates and predators were affected from the beginning. Among predators, Turanian tiger and cheetah have become extinct, and striped hyena, carakal lynx, and Persian leopard are approaching this state. Different categories of rare and threatened animals include 189 taxons many of which are listed in the CITES registry and the IUCN Red List of 1996 The total number of plant species included into the of the Red Book of Uzbekistan (1999) is 301 (Appendix).
NBCSAP: GOAL, OBJECTIVES AND OUTPUTS
1. Goal
Through conservation and Sustainable use, to protect and maintain Uzbekistan's biodiversity as a critical component for ifs Sustainable development, for the benefit of all people of Uzbekistan, both present and future.
2. Objectives and Outputs
In the light of the above analysis the critical areas the national biodiversity strategy must address have been identified, in order of priority, as follows.
Protected areas development has been identified as the area of first priority because of the need for immediate actions to reduce rapid loss of biodiversity, to address urgent problems facing protected areas management and to take advantage of the current momentum for reform in Uzbekistan.
Public awareness, education and participation have been allocated second highest priority mainly because it is recognized that achievements in these areas will require time. However, they are vital components for the strategies long term success.
Sustainable use has been allocated third priority for two reasons: firstly, a number of issues / actions relevant to sustainable use will form components of protected areas development and public awareness, education and participation. Secondly, utilization of the full potential of biological resources is a comparatively new concept in Uzbekistan, as elsewhere, and one which will initially require some evaluation and assessment before concrete action is undertaken.
Objective 1: Protected Areas System
"To establish a system of protected areas with strong legal protection and effective management which is properly representative of the range of Uzbekistan's ecosystems and species, and which covers at least 10% of the country."
Institutional and Legal Provisions
I. Review of the suitability and adequacy of existing institutional arrangements for administration and management of protected areas, and any changes if required.
II. Review of the legal provisions for protected areas, including the adequacy of various types of protected area status, and any changes if required.
Protected Area Management
I. Review of the adequacy of staffing, funding and equipment levels for protected area management, and any changes if required, on the basis of current experience and in accordance with the reorganized / expanded protected areas system.
II. Improved recruitment and training procedures for protected areas staff.
Protected Areas System Reorganization and Expansion
I. Based on available data, develop maps showing national ecosystems, the location of key biodiversity areas and habitats and current status.
II. Review categories of protected areas and initiate revision/reform to best meet the current needs of Uzbekistan (see legal review above).
III. Through an expert consultative process, identify gaps and needs and reach agreement on selection criteria.
IV. Selection of proposed protected areas in terms of agreed criteria.
V. Appropriate consultation procedures at all levels.
VI. Complete procedures for establishment of protected areas.
Biodiversity Information System
I. Develop an appropriate system for storage and processing of relevant biological resources information, which is applicable to effective decision making.
II. Ensure knowledge of and full access to the information system by decision makers and other interested parties.
Objective 2: Public Awareness, Participation and Education
"Achieve at all levels an adequate understanding and appreciation of the full value of biodiversity to Uzbekistan' sustainable development and support for the efforts to adequately conserve and the Republic' biological resources."
Increased Knowledge Base of Decision Makers
I. Develop information packages and guidelines for decision makers from different sectors, particularly agriculture, production forestry and water management, on biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. Provide easily accessible and utilisable information on biodiversity issues to decision makers from all sectors.
II. Ensure a multi-sectorial representation on national, regional and local biodiversity committees, associations and relevant organizations.
Increased Public Awareness
I. Develop a media program (print, radio, television) designed to convey a broad understanding of the full value of biodiversity to Uzbekistan's sustainable development
II. Gain public support, for major biodiversity conservation and sustainable use activities, particularly protected areas, via full dissemination of information at national and local level.
III. Develop local and community biodiversity awareness programs for areas of particularly high value / importance to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.
Education
I. Through an expert consultative group, fully identify gaps and problems with current schools and higher education curriculum's and approaches.
II. Identify other ongoing activities and initiatives in the field of environmental education
III. Identify priority actions required and develop a national biodiversity education plan.
IV. Implement procedures for establishment of biodiversity education in the national education system.