A ceremony was held at the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change to award the breast badge "Tabiat himoyachisi" ("Defender of Nature"). 

Representatives of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan were awarded at the event, including chairman of the Committee on the Development of the Aral Sea region and Ecology, Boriy Alikhanov, the Chief Curator of Afforestation of the Drained Bottom of the Aral Sea State Programme, academician Zinoviy Novitskiy, head of the Volunteers Association of Uzbekistan, Shirin Abidova, Nargiz Kasimova, Motabar Kushvaktova ("O'rik guli"), other eco-activists, bloggers, dedicated volunteers, and employees who have been actively working in the field for many years.

Speaking at the event, Bori Alikhanov, highlighted the significant work of the country's government in protecting the environment.

"Today, our government is undertaking extensive work aimed at preserving the environment, ecology, and addressing pressing issues. At the same time, the number of compatriots devoted to their cause, who care about nature, are concerned about the environment, and deeply feel their ecological responsibility, is increasing. This undoubtedly pleases us," said the chairman.

Minister of Ecology Aziz Abdukhakimov emphasized the important role of environmental activists in nature conservation.

""Your work, ideas, and initiatives are highly needed and valued by us. Everything we have achieved over the past year is thanks to our collective efforts in protecting the environment and your persistent hard work. We have big plans for the coming year. We have a lot of work ahead of us together. Our common goal is to leave a better environment for future generations," the minister said".

The event highlighted the growing importance of youth not only in ecology but in all areas. Aziz Abdukhakimov particularly highlighted one young environmental activist, 12-year-old Leyla Farkhadova, and presented her with a children's edition of the Red Book.

For reference: the breast badge "Tabiat himoyachisi" is awarded in accordance with the resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers dated August 10, 2022, to ensure the implementation of the Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On measures to accelerate work on greening and further effective organization of tree protection in the republic."

Each year, this badge is awarded for significant achievements in the field of ecology and environmental protection, nature preservation, rational use of natural resources, as well as for the implementation of scientific advancements, expansion of "green zones," and effective use of modern technologies.