On November 11, at the 31st Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31) held in Antalya, Türkiye, Uzbekistan presented its first project to create an artificial glacier utilizing “Ice Stupa” technology.
Sea-news.az reports that according to Uzbekistan’s National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, the “FOLUR-Uzbekistan” project is being implemented jointly with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The project focuses on conserving water resources, restoring land, and introducing sustainable agricultural practices, aiming to enhance water security and strengthen climate resilience in Central Asia.
According to project assessments, water availability in Uzbekistan could decline by 30–40 percent by 2050, while demand for irrigation water may rise by 25 percent. The country’s water deficit is projected to grow from approximately 3 billion cubic meters in 2015 to 7 billion cubic meters by 2030, reaching 15 billion cubic meters by 2050.
To address these challenges, Uzbekistan applied “Ice Stupa” technology for the first time under the FAO’s Food Systems, Land Use and Restoration (FOLUR) impact program, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
The country’s first pilot artificial glacier was established in the Sarchashma area of the Shakhrisabz district in the Kashkadarya region. Launched on January 9, 2026, the system relies on natural elevation differences and water pressure, enabling it to operate without electric pumps.
During initial testing, the installation accumulated roughly 800 cubic meters of ice. Subsequently, around 60 local households utilized the meltwater, demonstrating the technology’s potential to store water resources during winter months for use during periods of peak water demand.
“Ice Stupa” technology involves channeling water from existing sources through specially engineered pipes and spraying it into the air. Under sub-zero temperatures, the water freezes, gradually forming a massive artificial ice structure that melts during spring and summer to provide an additional water source.
The technology is expected to improve water supply in arid mountainous areas, support agricultural activities, and provide local communities with supplementary water reserves. Simultaneously, storing water during periods of relative abundance will bolster resilience against droughts and other climate hazards.
The implementation of the project reflects Uzbekistan’s efforts to expand nature-based solutions and enhance the efficiency of water and land resource management.
