From the 29th to 30th of October, Ashgabat is hosting a regional conference on «From methane data to action: strengthening methane emissions management, capital mobilisation, and regional cooperation in Central Asia».
The Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) organised the large-scale forum with the support of the Ministry of environmental protection of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of foreign affairs of Turkmenistan, and the Global methane hub (GMH). The event was held within the framework of the «Central Asian capacity building for methane emissions reduction» (CA CBMER) project, which focuses on the oil and gas sector.
During the forum, Magtymguly Akmyradov, advisor on environmental and water issues at the MFA of Turkmenistan, delivered a keynote speech. He emphasised the high relevance of the topic under discussion, noting the colossal greenhouse effect of methane and its role in climate change.
«The increase in methane concentrations is a significant factor in climate change, and reducing its emissions is an effective method for reducing the rate of global warming over the next 10 years», – the diplomat said.
A representative of the Ministry of foreign affairs spoke in detail about the measures taken by Turkmenistan to reduce the anthropogenic impact on the environment. Possessing abundant energy resources, the country is focusing on the implementation of advanced environmentally friendly and resource-saving technologies in the oil and gas, energy, and transport sectors.
Legislative initiatives and the National climate change strategy, which sets guidelines for industrial decarbonisation, adaptation of economic activity, and rational use of water resources, serve as important instruments of state policy.
In this context, the speaker reminded that Turkmenistan is an active participant in the Paris Climate Agreement and, in 2023, joined the Global methane commitment, confirming its readiness to take decisive action on the international stage.
During the presentation, special attention was paid to the transition to renewable energy sources (RES) in accordance with the relevant national law.
«The country is actively developing the potential of solar and wind energy. A striking example of this process is the completed construction of a hybrid solar and wind power plant in the Balkan velayat, as well as the implementation of autonomous systems in remote regions of the country», – the advisor of MFA stated.
M. Akmyradov once again confirmed openness of Turkmenistan to strengthening partnerships with UN structures, international financial and environmental funds, and the scientific community in the name of achieving common climate goals.
