DECOUPLING ECONOMIC GROWTH FROM ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION: STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN UZBEKISTAN

Achieving sustainable development while maintaining economic growth presents a significant challenge for Uzbekistan, given its reliance on resource-intensive industries and fossil fuels. This paper explores strategies for decoupling economic growth from environmental harm, focusing on key measures such as transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, fostering green technology and innovation, and enforcing robust environmental policies. The study highlights the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and international cooperation in facilitating this transition. Uzbekistan's potential for solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy, coupled with modernization of its industrial and agricultural sectors, offers pathways to mitigate environmental impacts. Leveraging global partnerships and foreign direct investment, the country can adopt green technologies and align its development goals with international sustainability standards. This approach ensures a balance between economic prosperity and environmental preservation, contributing to a sustainable future.