Ensuring environmental security is one of the fundamental principles of Turkmenistan’s state policy. During the current stage of national development, known as the Revival of the New Era of a Powerful State, environmental protection and the rational use of natural resources have gained strategic importance at both regional and international levels. This approach is driven by the understanding that disruption of the balance between humans and nature leads to environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and the disappearance of species from their natural habitats.
Human society relies entirely on natural resources to meet its needs. However, when interactions with the environment are not guided by well-designed environmental protection programs, ecological balance is inevitably compromised. Recognizing this risk, Turkmenistan has placed environmental sustainability at the center of its long-term development agenda.
Under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan actively promotes environmental initiatives at the global level. At the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, the President proposed several key initiatives, including the development of a UN-targeted environmental strategy for Central Asia, the establishment of a regional center for climate change technologies, and the launch of the Caspian Environmental Initiative. These proposals aim to draw international attention to the environmental challenges facing Central Asia and to strengthen regional cooperation.
Turkmenistan has also demonstrated its commitment to global climate action. Speaking at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, the President officially announced Turkmenistan’s accession to the Global Methane Pledge. The country continues close cooperation with international organizations and partner states to implement projects aligned with this commitment, focusing on emissions reduction and environmentally responsible technologies.
Environmental rights are firmly enshrined in national legislation. Article 53 of the Constitution of Turkmenistan guarantees every citizen the right to a healthy environment, access to reliable environmental information, and compensation for damage caused by environmental violations or natural disasters. This constitutional provision reflects the state’s priority of protecting public health through environmental well-being.
Turkmenistan has accumulated substantial experience in cooperation with UN agencies and international organizations. Today, dozens of national and regional environmental programs are being implemented in partnership with the UN Development Programme (UNDP), UN Environment Programme (UNEP), Global Environment Facility (GEF), FAO, and the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia, among others. These initiatives cover biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, sustainable land use, and ecosystem protection.
Significant progress has also been made in strengthening environmental legislation. National laws focus on preventing pollution, conserving unique biodiversity, protecting land and water resources, and ensuring the sustainable use of natural assets. Key strategic documents, such as the National Climate Change Strategy and the National Forest Program, were developed on the initiative of the National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Large-scale nationwide environmental campaigns, including annual tree-planting initiatives, have become an integral part of environmental culture.
Public organizations play an active role in promoting environmental awareness. The Nature Protection Society of Turkmenistan is one of the largest civil organizations supporting state environmental policy, encouraging public participation, and fostering responsible attitudes toward natural resource conservation and restoration.
Overall, Turkmenistan’s environmental policy aims to preserve natural wealth, ensure rational resource use, prevent environmental degradation, and maintain ecological balance. These efforts contribute not only to sustainable economic development but also to improving quality of life and ensuring long-term environmental security for present and future generations.
Source: mineco gov tm
