In the arid climate of Central Asia, forests are far more than a natural resource—they are a critical component of climate resilience and hydrological security. Recognizing the growing threats of desertification and water resource depletion, the Republic of Uzbekistan is developing a new edition of its Forest Code. The document is intended to provide the legal foundation for restoring and expanding the country’s “green shield.” The Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) serves as a strategic partner in this process by providing analytical support and linking national initiatives to the broader regional sustainable development agenda.

New approaches to strengthening cross-border cooperation on degraded land restoration have been proposed in Central Asia.