THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE ARAL SEA DISASTER: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS
Keywords:
Aral Sea disaster,ecological crisis,socio-economic consequences, desertification process,land degradation,public health,air pollution,soil chemical composition,migration,employment issues,agricultural productivity,infrastructure decline,sustainable development,international cooperation,regional initiatives,environmental restoration strategies,water scarcity,environmental monitoring.Abstract
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic and environmental consequences of the Aral Sea disaster. The study examines the degradation of the natural environment resulting from the reduction of water levels in the region, the intensification of desertification processes, and the extent of atmospheric and soil pollution, as well as their impact on public health. In addition, the research explores widespread economic issues such as unemployment, migration, declining agricultural productivity, and infrastructure challenges. The article evaluates the effectiveness of international organizations, government programs, and regional initiatives, and proposes advanced solutions aimed at ensuring the sustainable development of the Aral Sea region. The findings of the study contribute to a deeper understanding of the current state of the Aral Sea crisis and its long-term consequences, providing a foundation for developing practical measures.
References
Micklin, P. (2016). The Future Aral Sea: Hope and Despair. International Journal of Environmental Studies, 73(3), 591–607.
Spoor, M. (2020). The Aral Sea Basin Crisis: Transition and Environment in Central Asia. Routledge.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2023). Aral Sea Region: Environmental Restoration and Sustainable Development Report.
World Bank. (2022). Building Resilience in the Aral Sea Region: Progress and Challenges. Washington, DC.
Glantz, M. H. (2019). The Aral Sea Basin: A Critical Environmental Challenge. Cambridge University Press.
Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan. (2024). Aral Sea Restoration Initiatives and Green Projects.
FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization). (2023). Combatting Desertification in the Aral Sea Region. Rome.
UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme). (2022). Environmental Assessment of the Aral Sea Area.
ICARDA. (2021). Halophyte and Saxaul Planting for Soil Stabilization in the Aral Sea Region.
International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS). (2023). Annual Report on Water Management and Regional Sustainability.
