Since 2011, Azerbaijan has updated its environmental legislation, developed comprehensive framework documents and created cross-sectoral governance structures. UN report: Azerbaijan has reduced its dependence on the oil sector Climate and Environment
Over the past 13 years, Azerbaijan, which is currently hosting the main global climate event of the year, has taken important steps to improve its environmental situation. However, according to the third Environmental Performance Review (EPR), presented today by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) at the UN Climate Conference (COP-29) in Baku, the country still has a number of key issues to address.
The report analyzes achievements since the previous EPR in 2011 and includes 78 recommendations for further improving the country’s environmental performance.
UNECE Executive Secretary Tatyana Molchan said: “Conducting the EIA for the third time demonstrates Azerbaijan’s commitment to continuously improving its environmental situation. The review contains a number of policy and practical recommendations that will help the country implement low-carbon strategies, reduce pollution and improve waste management.”
Key improvements
Since 2011, Azerbaijan has updated its environmental legislation, developed comprehensive framework documents and established cross-sectoral governance structures, including the National Coordination Council for Sustainable Development and the Water Management Commission. Progress has been made in establishing protected areas and developing environmental education.
New measures have been taken in agriculture (which employs 37 percent of the country’s workforce) and programs have been launched to reduce rural poverty and improve the sector’s sustainability.
Environmental Priorities
The report’s authors recommend strengthening the capacity of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, improving the environmental impact assessment mechanism, introducing a legal basis for the transition to basin-based water management, updating the National Solid Waste Management Strategy, and developing a National Action Plan to Combat Desertification.
In addition, it is proposed to create an integrated environmental monitoring system to provide high-quality information for strategic planning and control. It also emphasizes the need to improve access to environmental information and public participation in decision-making in line with the Aarhus Convention.
Implementation of low-carbon strategies
Azerbaijan has significantly reduced its dependence on the oil sector, increasing the share of the non-oil sector from 48.8 percent to 62.2 percent of GDP from 2011 to 2021. However, the country’s energy balance remains dependent on fossil fuels, providing 98 percent of primary energy and more than 90 percent of electricity. The report recommends developing “green” investments and reducing government subsidies on fossil fuels.
Pollution Reduction and Waste Management
Air pollution-related mortality, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is 110 cases per 100,000 people and remains an acute problem, especially in cities. The review recommends full implementation of the National Action Plan for the ratification of key protocols to the UNECE Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution.
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Most waste is sent to landfills, with the exception of Baku, which is mainly incinerated. It is recommended to expand waste recycling and raise public awareness of waste-related issues.
The report notes the need to integrate climate change adaptation and mitigation measures into urban planning, as well as promote the sustainable management of forests, which cover 12 percent of the country’s territory.