In Uzbekistan, the suspension of 46 seasonal greenhouses and the imposition of fines on 37 greenhouse owners highlight growing concerns over environmental pollution and unsustainable agricultural practices. This article explores the recent actions taken by the Ministry of Ecology and the challenges faced by greenhouse operations in the country.
Uzbekistan’s Environmental Crackdown on Greenhouses: Navigating Challenges in Sustainable Agriculture
In Uzbekistan, environmental concerns have led to a significant regulatory response, including the suspension of 46 seasonal greenhouses. The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change (MinEkologiya) conducted a comprehensive investigation in Tashkent and surrounding regions to identify sources of excessive pollutant emissions. This investigation uncovered significant air pollution, particularly in the form of PM-2.5 and PM-10 particles, which were traced back to greenhouse operations.
The Rise in Pollution Levels and Greenhouse Impact
The analysis, conducted with the help of a mobile air pollution laboratory, revealed alarming increases in pollutant concentrations along Tashkent’s ring road. In response, the Ministry of Ecology examined 486 greenhouses, finding that 46 of them were seasonal and did not have proper boiler systems. These greenhouses were primarily located in areas such as Zangiatan, Kibray, and Tashkent. The investigation uncovered that these operations were contributing to the rising pollution levels, prompting immediate regulatory measures.
Greenhouse owners in the region are being held accountable for their environmental impact, with 37 fined for violating boiler usage rules. Additionally, 426 owners have been warned about the need to install dust and gas purification systems that meet ecological standards. Furthermore, the use of rubber and other waste materials as fuel has been strictly prohibited, highlighting the need for more sustainable and eco-friendly practices in greenhouse operations.
The Shift Away from Gas-Powered Greenhouses
Another challenge faced by greenhouse owners is the issue of gas supply. In late 2022, many greenhouse owners reported disruptions in their gas supply, which led to a push for alternative fuel sources. While the Ministry of Energy introduced the shift to “alternative fuels” as a mandatory condition in gas supply agreements, the transition has not been without difficulty.
In 2023, the government began announcing measures to support the transition of greenhouses from gas to coal. Subsidies, preferential loans, and compensation for coal boiler purchases were promised to ease the shift. However, in December 2024, temporary restrictions on gas supply were introduced due to a sharp drop in temperatures, affecting the viability of some greenhouse operations.
The Road Ahead: Balancing Agriculture and Environmental Sustainability
The suspension of 46 seasonal greenhouses underscores the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in Uzbekistan. While greenhouses play a crucial role in local food production, their environmental footprint must be minimized to ensure long-term agricultural viability. The government’s crackdown on polluting practices is a clear message that greenhouse operations must adopt cleaner technologies, such as dust and gas purification systems, and transition to more sustainable fuel sources.
The push for renewable energy sources, such as the planned construction of photovoltaic stations with a capacity of 107 MW in rural areas, is a step in the right direction. These initiatives may help reduce the reliance on traditional fuels and improve the overall sustainability of the agricultural sector in Uzbekistan.
Embracing Sustainable Practices for the Future
As Uzbekistan works to balance its agricultural growth with environmental sustainability, the current crackdown on greenhouse emissions is an essential reminder for farmers and greenhouse owners to adopt eco-friendly technologies and practices. Moving towards cleaner energy solutions and adhering to stricter environmental regulations will not only benefit the local ecosystem but also ensure the future viability of greenhouse agriculture in the country.
