Tajikistan continues its efforts to adapt to climate change and protect the environment. In Shahritus District, Khatlon Region, over 250 hectares of saxaul have been planted, while in Asht District, Sughd Region, approximately 70 hectares have been restored.
According to the Research Institute of Forestry, by 2027, the area of saxaul plantations in Asht District is expected to exceed 350 hectares.
Institute Director Nurali Huseynov emphasized that saxaul planting plays a crucial role in combating desertification and supporting ecosystems:
the plant stabilizes sand and prevents dust storms;
its deep root system strengthens the soil and enhances moisture retention;
it promotes the growth of other plants, supporting local ecosystems.
Experts highlight that land degradation remains a serious global challenge: over 12 million hectares of fertile land are lost annually, and by 2050, droughts may affect up to 75% of countries worldwide.
In Tajikistan, these effects manifest as soil erosion, desertification, and intensified dust storms, with dust often originating from arid regions of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan.
Saxaul, resilient to drought, extreme heat, and saline soils, helps preserve desert ecosystems and partially prevents wind erosion.
Expansion of saxaul plantations is part of state forestry restoration projects in Tajikistan, aimed at the long-term protection of soils and climate.
📌 Source: Research Institute of Forestry, Tajikistan
