Japan supports climate-resilient agriculture in the Aral Sea Region: A Study tour to enhance sustainable development practices

November 8, 2024
a group of people posing for a photo

Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan

Tokyo, Japan, 8-15 October 2024 - A delegation of government officials, UNDP representatives, and key stakeholders from Uzbekistan undertook a technical study tour to Japan from October 8 to 15, 2024, as part of the “Project for Supporting Self-reliance through Climate-resilient Agriculture in the Aral Sea Region” funded by the Government of Japan. The objective of the tour was to learn from Japan’s advanced agricultural technologies, water management practices, and sustainable development initiatives to address the challenges faced by communities in the Aral Sea region.

The Aral Sea region, one of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems, had been severely impacted by climate change, water scarcity, and environmental degradation. In response to these challenges, the project puts effort to increase the self-reliance of local communities through the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices and the introduction of innovative social infrastructure. 

Mr. Alisher Shukurov, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, highlighted the vital role of agriculture in improving the well-being of citizens, ensuring food security, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to stable national development. He emphasized that study tours, which allow for the sharing of knowledge and expertise, play a crucial role in strengthening the agricultural system in Uzbekistan. These programs help enhance the skills of local experts, improve farming practices, and support the country's broader goals of agricultural modernization and sustainability.

a group of people standing outside of a building

Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan

Ms. Akiko Fujii, the UNDP Resident Representative to Uzbekistan, emphasized the critical importance of introducing water-saving technologies into agriculture. She noted that this issue has become increasingly urgent in Uzbekistan due to the limited availability of water resources in Central Asia, coupled with the global challenges posed by climate change. Efficient water management is essential for sustainable agricultural development, especially in a region where water scarcity is a growing concern. By adopting water-saving technologies, Uzbekistan can help ensure more sustainable agricultural practices, improve water use efficiency, and build resilience to the impacts of climate change.

During the study tour, participants visited several key institutions and facilities in Japan to observe and learn about the technologies and methodologies that had proven effective in similar environmental contexts:

  • Fujimin organic fertilizer technology: Participants explored how the high-concentrate fulvic acid “Fujimin” fertilizer was used in Japan to enhance soil health and increase crop yields, particularly in saline and coastal soils. Particularly, delegation visited farming field in Kyoto prefecture and exchanged information and knowledge directly. 

  • One Village, One Product (OVOP) approach: The OVOP initiative, which focused on empowering communities to produce unique, high-quality products from local resources, was examined as a model for developing local brands and improving business opportunities. OVOP products were learned in Shirai City of Chiba prefecture and Ohara District of Kyoto Prefecture.

  • Johkasou waste-water treatment: The delegation visited facilities utilizing Johkasou technology, an eco-friendly wastewater treatment system that was especially relevant in water-scarce regions like the Aral Sea. Johkasou facility site visit was organized in Chiba prefecture by representative of “Terao Litech Central Asia” where waste-water treatment system was observed. 

  • Kaizen business development: A focus on Kaizen, the Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement, highlighted how local businesses could enhance their productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness. Excellent Kaizen examples were introduced and presented by the representatives of “Noritsuisu” company in AichiPrefecture, where delegation was able to have factory tour and learn on production cycle of variety of chairs. 

  • Sustainable farming and water-efficient technologies: The delegation also studied innovative farming techniques that utilized energy and water efficiently while maintaining a low environmental impact.

The knowledge and experience gained from this visit will be instrumental in developing policies and initiatives that enhance productivity, support local communities, and promote environmental sustainability in Uzbekistan.

About the Project

The UNDP Project “The Project for Supporting Self-reliance through Climate-resilient Agriculture in the Aral Sea Region” is financed by the government of Japan and being implemented 2023-2025 and by promoting sustainable farming, alternative energy sources, and access to clean water, the project aimed to improve food security, economic stability, and the overall well-being of those affected by the Aral Sea disaster.