Kyrgyzstan - Overview

Status and trends of biodiversity, including benefits from biodiversity and ecosystem services

In general, the loss of biodiversity in Kyrgyzstan is occurring at the ecosystem level, with most ecosystems impacted by human activity to a greater or lesser extent. Ecosystems that have undergone extreme changes include: foothill vegetation complexes, such as the piedmont plain steppe; riparian and wetland ecosystems in the Chui Valley; and the sub-plain community in the arid, semi-arid and desert ecosystems of the Fergana Valley foothills... More »

Main pressures on and drivers of change to biodiversity (direct and indirect)

Foothill and mountain communities are impacted by overgrazing. Moreover, the increase in the number of livestock and the lack of interventions to improve natural grasslands, have over the years created loads on pastures that exceed environmentally sound standards. All types of pastures are under threat at present; this is particularly significant in view of the fact that most of the population depends on livestock farming for their livelihoods... More »

Implementation of the NBSAP

Kyrgyzstan’s biodiversity conservation priorities for 2014-2024 have been formulated with the current Strategic Plan for Biodiversity taken into account. These priorities have been translated into four strategic targets focused on: 1) integrating biodiversity conservation issues into the activities of State bodies and public organizations by 2020; 2) reducing the impact on biodiversity and promoting its sustainable use; 3) improving the protection and monitoring of ecosystems and species diversity; and 4) improving the social importance of biodiversity and ecosystem services, increasing the benefits of sustainable ecosystem services and traditional technologies... More »

Actions taken to achieve the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets

While Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are conducted in some areas, such as mining, they are not being implemented to the extent necessary. In most cases, fines and penalties are issued for harm done to the environment. Positive incentives have not been developed yet.

There is a positive trend regarding the expansion of the network of specially protected natural areas (SPNA) which today covers 1.2 million hectares or 6% of the national territory (Kyrgyzstan intends to further increase coverage to 10% by 2024)... More »

Support mechanisms for national implementation (legislation, funding, capacity-building, coordination, mainstreaming, etc.)

While there are many conflicting laws and large gaps in legislation related to biodiversity, gradual improvements are occurring. Recently, on 3 May 2013, a decree was adopted which determines the rate of payment for the illegal destruction of rare and endemic species. In addition, the country is currently working on the creation of legislation on access to genetic resources... More »

Mechanisms for monitoring and reviewing implementation

A mechanism for monitoring and reviewing implementation of the NBSAP does not exist at the moment. However, this issue is being addressed under the third strategic target of the new NBSAP on improving the protection and monitoring of ecosystems and species diversity.