Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 19 September, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed proposals aimed at environmental protection and tourism development.

Two programs were developed in the ecological sphere. The first is the National Program to Combat Dust Storms for 2024-2030, which includes a gradual ban on the sale and use of fuel below the "Euro-4" standard.

 Plans are in place to modernize oil refineries in Bukhara and Fergana to produce high-quality fuel. The second program focuses on improving air quality in Tashkent, proposing the creation of green belts and parks covering 441 hectares in the capital and surrounding areas.

Additionally, the necessity of streamlining the sanitation system was discussed, including the establishment of an Agency for Waste Management and the implementation of a rating system for enterprises. It is also planned to introduce mandatory greening of territories during construction and create green belts around industrial facilities.

To strengthen environmental control, it was proposed to establish the title of "Honored Ecologist of the Republic of Uzbekistan" and tighten penalties for environmental violations.

Furthermore, a voluntary ecological labeling system called "Yashil belgi" is suggested, along with the development of an environmental monitoring system for over 2,300 facilities.

In the tourism sector, measures for the development of medical tourism were discussed. Uzbekistan is planned to be positioned as a center for medical services in Central Asia, promoting the development of medical institutions and introducing a certification system for sanatoriums.

The President emphasized the importance of thoroughly refining these proposals and effectively organizing their implementation.