Water resources as a factor of ecological sustainability in forest ecosystems of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan: Challenges and prospects for cooperation

The relevance of the study is conditioned by the growing impact of climate change and anthropogenic stress on water resources, which are crucial for maintaining the ecological sustainability of forest ecosystems in Central Asia. The purpose of the study was to assess changes in the water resources of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan during 2014-2024 and determine their impact on the ecological sustainability of forest ecosystems. The research methods included the analysis of hydrological data on the quantity and quality of water resources during the specified period, and the analysis of scientific sources on the relationship between water balance, biodiversity, and soil conditions. In particular, the water level in large rivers (Naryn, Ili), changes in water temperature, chemical pollution, and the dynamics of forest areas were analysed. The results showed that the water level in the Naryn River decreased by 8% due to melting glaciers and increased water intake, while in the Ili River this figure was 6% due to reduced inflows from China and increased water consumption. The average water temperature increased by 1.0-1.2°C, which reduced the concentration of dissolved oxygen and negatively affected biodiversity. Water pollution from industrial and agricultural discharges increased by 10-15%, exacerbating the degradation of coastal ecosystems and biodiversity. The data indicate the relative stability of the overall forest fund of Kyrgyzstan, but there is a decrease in the area of land covered with forest, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of conservation measures. Reforestation shows unstable dynamics due to climate change and water scarcity. The reduction in forest areas was 5% in Kyrgyzstan and 7% in Kazakhstan, with the largest losses observed in the Ili River basin. The decrease in biodiversity in Kazakhstan reached 12%, while in Kyrgyzstan, the decrease in forest area worsened the water stress in mountainous regions. The findings highlight the close relationship between the state of water resources and the ability of forest ecosystems to perform ecological functions