Pathways to a Carbon-Neutral Uzbekistan: Evaluating CO2 Emission Estimation and Decarbonization Measures for Sustainability

Abstract

Abstract As the climate change becomes the greatest issue of this century, countries are looking for sustainable solutions to effectively control their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this way, the transition to a carbon neutral economy is likely to be the top priority in the sustainable management strategies and policies of each country. Uzbekistan, being one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change effects, is taking notable actions to transition towards a low-carbon economy. This study estimates the carbon dioxide (CO2) — the main GHG — emissions trends in Uzbekistan and their sector-by-sector contribution. Additionally, various carbon emissions reduction pathways are discussed emphasizing on the potential for the transition to renewable energy sources (RES) and carbon capture, storage, and utilization (CCSU) technology integration. Apart from that, the possible opportunities and barriers of RES power generation, CCSU integration, and trading infrastructure among Central Asian countries are comprehensively investigated. CO2 concentration of flue gases from different sources is also estimated in order to preliminary calculation of CO2 capture cost. In the end, CO2 utilization pathways and potentials for Uzbekistan is briefly discussed. This paper gives valuable recourses for researchers and decision-makers aiming to reduce the GHG emissions via RES promotion, fossil fuel based industry optimization, and CCSU integration in Uzbekistan.