Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The British Embassy in Uzbekistan, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and Tashkent State Agrarian University co-hosted a special event highlighting the potential of regenerative agriculture in Uzbekistan. At the heart of the event was the screening of the UK documentary “Six Inches of Soil,” an inspiring film about young farmers transforming food production to heal soil, improve health, and support local communities.

Ahead of the screening, a high-level panel discussion titled “Soil, Water, Life: Uzbekistan's Path to Resource-Efficient and Regenerative Agricultural Systems” explored how agroecological farming practices can be adapted to Uzbekistan’s climate and landscapes. Experts shared ideas on scaling up regenerative practices to address land degradation and climate challenges while strengthening rural livelihoods.

The panel featured prominent voices including:
Moderator: Aziz Nurbekov, National Project Manager, FAO

- Sarah Cooper, Regional Development Director for FCDO in Central Asia
- Dilfuza Egamberdieva, Deputy Director, ISCAD, MoA
- Khabibulo Khamdamov, Advisor to the Chairman of the Committee for Veterinary and Livestock Development of Uzbekistan

- Zsuzsanna Keresztes, FAO Specialist on IPC and Climate Resilient Practices, Hungary
- Iskandar Abdullaev, Senior Researcher, IWMI
 

"Uzbekistan stands at a critical crossroads where traditional agricultural knowledge and modern regenerative practices can merge to create resilient food systems. This documentary and today's discussions highlight how soil health is the foundation of sustainable agriculture. By focusing on our soils now, we are building the groundwork for food security, climate adaptation, and the prosperity of rural communities across Uzbekistan", said Sherzod Umarov, Deputy Representative of FAO in Uzbekistan.

“Regenerative agriculture is not just about farming differently — it’s about securing the future of our food systems, our environment, and our communities. The UK is proud to support Uzbekistan in exploring sustainable agricultural solutions that benefit both people and the planet. The stories told in Six Inches of Soil are a powerful reminder that innovation and resilience often begin with the land beneath our feet.”
— H.E. Timothy Smart, British Ambassador to Uzbekistan

“Regenerative agriculture is a strategic direction for ensuring Uzbekistan's ecological sustainability and food security. As Tashkent State Agrarian University, we are focused on advancing scientific research in this area, strengthening international cooperation, and training skilled professionals. Today's event is not only a platform for scientific and practical dialogue but also an important opportunity to introduce our young specialists to regenerative approaches up close", said Narzullo Oblomurodov rector of Tashkent State Agrarian University.

The event concluded with a symbolic tree planting ceremony at the university’s experimental farm. Drought-resistant native species were planted, underscoring Uzbekistan’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture.