Towards sustainable future of Central Asia: Analysis of climate, resources and human security

This book provides an interdisciplinary, evidence-based assessment of climate change impacts across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. It brings together research on climate, the cryosphere, extreme events, water resources, agriculture, energy, health and human security. The chapters examine observed trends, historical changes and future projections, drawing on climate and hydrological data, modelling, and reviews of existing research. They also consider differences across the region’s mountainous and lowland areas, and upstream and downstream relationships.

The book identifies accelerating warming, glacier retreat, altered hydrological regimes and intensifying hazards, with cascading risks for water availability, energy, agriculture and livelihoods. It also highlights gaps in observation systems and data access, and the role of climate change in intensifying social vulnerabilities and transboundary tensions. The authors present the assessment as relevant to adaptation planning, disaster risk reduction and transboundary cooperation.