“Launched in 2010, the CALP has been a platform for young leaders to develop their knowledge and skills to address regional environmental challenges for 14 years. The program promotes the exchange of knowledge between governmental, scientific and non-governmental organizations, creating a dialogue between young professionals who will make important decisions for the region tomorrow,” said Zafar Makhmudov, Executive Director of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC), to the participants of the 14th Central Asian Leadership Program on Environment for Sustainable Development (CALP) “Glacier Horizons and Climate-Smart Mountain Disaster Risk Management in Central Asia”.
He stressed that the CALP is dedicated to discussing one of the most relevant and important topics of our time – climate change, disaster risk management and sustainable development in mountain areas.
“Our region is facing serious environmental challenges, and climate change is central among them. Glaciers are melting in the mountains of Central Asia, on which millions of people depend for water supplies, and this process also carries the risks of natural disasters such as floods and landslides. Our task is to find ways to reduce these risks and ensure a sustainable future for all countries in the region,” Zafar Makhmudov said.
As the CAREC Executive Director noted, the main topic of the 14th CALP is glaciers and disaster risk management. “This is not just a matter of environmental protection, but also a matter of regional security and stability. How can we manage water resources if the glaciers that feed the rivers are disappearing? How can we protect people and infrastructure in mountain areas from natural disasters? The answers to these questions lie in strengthening cooperation between the countries of the region, and in creating joint mechanisms for managing water and natural resources. Water diplomacy, especially considering gender aspects, is becoming a key tool for resolving cross-border conflicts and ensuring a fair distribution of resources,” says Zafar Makhmudov.
He stressed the importance of the role of young professionals in addressing pressing climate issues. “Your role as young leaders is to use innovation and cutting-edge approaches to address these challenges. Today, Central Asia needs young professionals who can offer new ideas for water resources management, climate adaptation and energy efficiency,” said the CAREC Executive Director.
“We see that the impact of climate change is already being felt in high-altitude lakes and glaciers; but to effectively confront these challenges, integrated approaches are needed. The NEXUS model, based on the interlinkages between water, energy, food and ecosystems, provides us with such tools. This integrated approach addresses all aspects of sustainable development and helps us see the full picture,” Zafar Mahmudov continued.
He noted that the program of the 14th CALP includes field trips to the mountainous areas of Almaty. “These are not just excursions – this is an opportunity to see with your own eyes the changes happening to our glaciers and mountain ecosystems,” said Zafar Makhmudov.
According to him, field trips will provide a unique experience of working in the field that will allow for a deeper understanding of how to adapt to climate change. The CAREC Executive Director expressed hope that all the skills, knowledge and connections gained at the CALP will become a solid foundation for a future in which climate resilience and cooperation between countries will be in the first place.
