On December 26, 2024, Bukhara State University hosted the 2nd National Workshop on UI GreenMetric for Higher Education in Uzbekistan, a virtual event that highlighted the growing commitment of academic institutions to sustainability. This workshop aimed to enhance awareness and encourage the adoption of best practices in line with the UI GreenMetric methodology, uniting universities across Uzbekistan in a shared mission to integrate sustainable development into their operations and policies.

The event featured distinguished representatives from UI GreenMetric, including:

• Prof. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, M.M.,M.Sc, Chairperson of UI GreenMetric
• Dr. Junaidi, S.S., M.A, Vice Chair of Program, Communication, and Partnership, UI GreenMetric
• Dr. Ruki Harwahyu, M.T., MSc, Expert Member of Data, System, and IT, UI GreenMetric

In addition to these experts, the workshop was graced by several prominent figures from the higher education and government sectors, including:v

• Khamidov Obidjon Khafizovich, Rector of Bukhara State University
• Maxkamov Otabek Muxtarovich, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan
• Salixov Jasur Shavkatovich, Rector of "Green University" Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies
• Boboyeva Go‘zal Nurmatovna, Head of the Scientific Administration Department, Tashkent State University of Law
• Xoshimov Doniyor, Acting Head of the Department of International and National Ratings, Tashkent State University of Economics
• Uktamov Sarvar Atxam o'g’li, Chief Specialist of the International Ratings Department, Tashkent State Transport University
• Bekzod Nishanaliev, Head of the International Ratings Department, Uzbekistan State University of World Languages
• Farhod Safarov, Department of International Ratings, Samarkand Institute of Economics and Service
• Yusupova Malika Botiralievna, Head of the Department for Working with National and International Ratings, Andijan Institute of Mechanical Engineering

These key figures underscored the importance of aligning higher education institutions with global sustainability goals, providing valuable insights into the UI GreenMetric framework and its potential impact on sustainability efforts in Uzbekistan.

A central part of the workshop was the series of presentations by leading Uzbek universities, where each institution showcased its efforts to integrate sustainable practices based on the six core indicators of the UI GreenMetric methodology: Setting and Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, Waste, Water, Transportation, and Education and Research. For example, one university highlighted its eco-friendly campus planning with energy-efficient buildings, while another presented its strategies for reducing carbon emissions and utilizing renewable energy systems. Several universities also discussed initiatives in waste reduction, water conservation, green transportation, and fostering environmental awareness through research and education.

The presentations were followed by engaging discussions that allowed universities to exchange knowledge, tackle common challenges, and inspire innovative approaches. These dialogues emphasized the interconnectedness of sustainability practices and encouraged participants to adopt a more holistic approach to their sustainability efforts.

A key takeaway from the workshop was the growing participation of Uzbek universities in the UI GreenMetric ranking. Currently, 52 universities from Uzbekistan have joined the UI GreenMetric Ranking, reflecting a significant rise in awareness and a commitment to sustainability within the academic community. This shift is indicative of a broader movement toward more responsible and sustainable behavior in higher education, fostering long-term environmental change.

The workshop served as a call to action for even more Uzbek universities to engage with the UI GreenMetric framework. By adopting these practices, institutions can not only improve their sustainability rankings but also contribute meaningfully to addressing pressing global environmental challenges.

UI GreenMetric remains dedicated to encouraging collaboration among higher education institutions worldwide and fostering dialogue on sustainability. Stay tuned to our socials for updates on our initiatives and how we are working together to create a greener, more sustainable future.