GeoX Central Asia Climate and Water Research Workshop

On December 11, 2024, the Central Asia Climate and Water Research Workshop took place at GFZ, Telegrafenberg, Potsdam, Germany, with financial support from the GeoX network. This one-day event brought together experts to discuss the challenges of climate change and water security in Central Asia. More than fifty participants, including researchers from Germany and Central Asia, gathered to develop sustainable and collaborative solutions for the region.

 

The program began with an opening session where representatives from GFZ and PIK welcomed attendees. Keynote addresses followed, featuring Prof. Björn Klöve from the University of Oulu, Finland, who discussed strategies for transboundary river basin management while highlighting the interconnectedness of climate, water, and energy systems. Dr. Damir Esenaliev from the Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) provided insights into addressing social inequality and fostering cohesion in Kyrgyzstan through evidence-based policymaking.

Subsequent sessions covered a range of critical topics. The first session focused on the impacts of climate change on the cryosphere, water availability, and ecosystems, exploring innovative tools for monitoring and adaptation. In the second session, participants examined the human dimensions of climate change, such as the effects of water scarcity on agriculture, resilience to drought, and strategies for promoting sustainable development. A session of PICO (Presenting Interactive Content Objectively) presentations showcased cutting-edge research and methodologies, from isotopic monitoring to drought analysis and changes in snowpack. These concise presentations sparked meaningful discussions and exchanges of ideas, supported by corresponding posters.

Collaborative discussions during a World Café session encouraged interactive dialogue around key topics, including best practices for interdisciplinary research, integrating traditional knowledge with scientific approaches, funding mechanisms for cross-disciplinary work in Central Asia, adapting scientific communication for policymakers, and overcoming cultural and linguistic barriers in science communication.

The workshop achieved several significant outcomes. It strengthened networks between researchers in Germany, Europe, and Central Asia, initiating plans to create a mailing list for potential collaborations, joint projects, funding opportunities, and future events. Emphasis was placed on the importance of interdisciplinary research, integrating local knowledge, and ensuring effective communication between scientists and policymakers. You can find the full program here.