This side event aims to discuss the role of businesses, government and society in sustainable water resource management, overcoming water scarcity and preserving freshwater ecosystems. Participants will explore mechanisms of cross-sectoral cooperation for transboundary resource management and adaptation to climate change, including potential tools and approaches to projects aimed at studying, monitoring and preserving glacial systems in the region. Special focus will be placed on integration of water agenda to achieve SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The discussion will also focus as well as on the glacier melting as a critical threat to Central Asia sustainable water provision and on potential ways and approaches to mitigate this risk.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What strategies and technologies can help to achieve the goals of economic development, freshwater preservation, water scarcity prevention and adaptation to climate change?
• What mechanisms can involve business, NGOs and citizens in preservation and rehabilitation of water resources, including glaciers and degraded waters?
• How to set up cooperation between countries, industry and science to manage transboundary resources?

This side event aims to explore how carbon markets can serve as an effective monetization tool for environmental projects in Central Asia. In the context of the region, climate projects can have multiple positive effects, such as improvement of food security and water balance, adaptation to climate change. Participants will discuss projects such as forest restoration, green corridor development along rivers and water bodies, sustainable land use and mountain ecosystems protection that not only contribute to climate change adaptation, but also have the potential to generate carbon assets in demand on the international market. Special attention will be paid to lessons from building carbon markets and implementing climate projects that could benefit the region. The event will convene businesses, sustainability experts and representatives of governmental to share experiences and identify solutions for strengthening Central Asia’s climate resilience.

Key Discussion Questions:

• How can ecosystem restoration and sustainable land use projects improve regional water balance?
• How can carbon markets finance nature-based projects? What barriers exist, and how can they be overcome?
• How can Russia’s experience in climate projects and national carbon market development be adapted for Central Asia?
• How can Central Asian countries enhance collaboration to advance climate initiatives?