BERLIN, 2 November. /Dunyo IA/. International academic publisher “Springer Nature” has released a scientific volume entitled “Towards Sustainable Future of Central Asia: Analysis of Climate, Resources and Human Security”, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Book was edited by researchers Iulii Didovets, Valentina Krysanova and Fred Fokko Hattermann of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), together with Uzbek hydrologist Dr Abror Gafurov, who works at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences.

Volume comprises 16 chapters prepared with contributions from 86 researchers representing 37 scientific institutions. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the impacts of climate change on water resources, agriculture, energy, the environment and human security in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Particular attention is given to glacier retreat, droughts, the sustainable use of water resources and the strengthening of transboundary cooperation. According to the projections presented in the book, glacier volume across the region could decline by as much as 85 percent by 2100 under certain climate scenarios, while summer river flows in July–September could decrease by up to 50 percent by 2050.

A separate chapter examines Dr Abror Gafurov’s research and modern methods for monitoring the cryosphere and water resources. In particular, it presents MODSNOW, a technology that uses satellite data to monitor snow cover, assess water reserves and forecast river discharge. The system is currently used in all five Central Asian countries.

Study also includes projections of the impact of climate change on crop yields. In particular, under current agricultural practices, winter wheat yields are expected to decline in seven of the eight regions examined. Recommended measures include introducing drought-resistant technologies, adjusting sowing dates and improving irrigation efficiency.

Scientific findings presented in the volume could contribute to improving water resource management, advancing hydrometeorological monitoring and strengthening regional cooperation on environmental security.

Publication also creates additional opportunities to expand scientific cooperation between Uzbekistan and Germany in climatology, hydrology and the sustainable development of Central Asia.

Electronic edition of the book is available in open access on the official “Springer Nature” website.