The key facts

  • On October 20, 2026, the Legislative Chamber adopted in first reading a new version of the law 'On Waste'
  • The law will replace the 2002 norm, in which deputies identified gaps and reference norms
  • Waste classification, economic incentives and a hazardous waste management system are provided for

Draft law adopted in first reading

The Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis on October 20 adopted in first reading the draft law 'On Waste' in a new version, the press service of the lower chamber reported. The document was developed to replace the current law of the same name from 2002. According to deputies, the reason was gaps and reference norms in the current law — in particular, regarding areas of activity in waste management, property relations, financing and support mechanisms.

What the new version provides

The draft law clarifies the powers of specially authorized state bodies and local authorities in the sphere of waste management, defines the rights and obligations of individuals and legal entities, as well as forms of participation of non-governmental non-profit organizations. It provides for the introduction of waste classification, economic incentives for working with waste and the creation of a system for the collection, neutralization and disposal of hazardous industrial, medical and biological waste. The document also includes legal foundations for the reuse of construction waste and the work of organizations in the field of sanitary cleaning, and enshrines requirements for transfer stations and solid household waste landfills. An institution of compensation for damage caused by violations in the sphere of waste management is being introduced. According to deputies, the goal of the draft law is to improve the legal framework for regulating relations in the sphere of waste.

Context: presentation for the president

In September, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation of projects to improve waste management, recycling and electricity production. Then the head of the Ecology Committee, Aziz Abdukhakimov, reported on the development of a new waste law. According to him, the document was prepared taking into account the international experience of 'more than ten of the most advanced countries' and defines types of waste, as well as the powers of departments, organizations, public associations, mahallas and executive authorities. Abdukhakimov stated that with the adoption of the new version, Uzbekistan is expected to create a clear waste management system: whereas previously waste was mostly dumped in landfills, the new regulation should make its recycling profitable, provide opportunities for business and jobs in the sector. 'If earlier we considered waste as a problem, henceforth it turns into new opportunities,' the president's adviser said.