TASHKENT, NOV 8: Leaders, experts, and advocates convened in Tashkent on Wednesday for Uzbekistan’s first Green Building Forum, an important moment in the nation’s pursuit of sustainable urban growth and environmental resilience. The forum gathered key stakeholders from government, the private sector, academia, and civil society to discuss and shape the future of green building in Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan stands at a crossroads in its development, experiencing rapid urbanization and bearing the responsibility to build a future aligned with global environmental goals. By embracing green building practices, the country aims to reduce energy costs, improve air quality, and enhance the resilience of its infrastructure, crucial factors in a region where seasonal temperature extremes strain energy and water resources.

Green building offers not only environmental benefits but also new economic opportunities. By adopting sustainable construction practices, Uzbekistan can attract increased investment, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and real estate. Green buildings also unlock access to green finance, fostering innovation and driving growth across the economy.

“Our goal is clear: to support Uzbekistan in creating environmentally responsible green buildings that align with the vision of a modern, resilient, and thriving nation,” said Neil McKain, IFC Regional Manager for Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

The forum marks the beginning of what is anticipated to be an annual event focused on advancing green building and the decarbonization of Uzbekistan’s construction sector. Organized by the Uzbekistan’s Minister of Construction, Housing, and Communal Services and IFC’s Green Building Project, which is financed by the government of Hungary and Facility for Investment Climate Advisory Services (FIAS), the forum aims to help create an enabling environment for developing a green building ecosystem in Uzbekistan. In 2024 alone, IFC invested over $1 billion globally in green building projects, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the growth of certified green buildings.