Uzbekistan to introduce recycling fee for construction glass waste

Uzbekistan is set to introduce a recycling (utilization) fee for construction glass waste generated during the use of glass in the building sector. On July 1, members of the Legislative Chamber approved the draft law in its first reading, which was developed by the Technical Regulation Agency.

Speaking in parliament, Akmal Jumanazarov, head of the agency, stated that Uzbekistan generates an estimated 408,000 tons of glass waste annually. In 2024, only 9% of this amount – around 37,000 tons – was recycled.

According to Jumanazarov, the unrecycled glass waste is having a negative impact on the environment.

“The draft law introduces a recycling fee aimed at creating the necessary infrastructure for processing glass waste generated from construction activities and covering the costs of recycling,” said the head of the Technical Regulation Agency.

The legislation draws on international experience, particularly from Russia, Belarus, and Kyrgyzstan, and has been coordinated with five government ministries and agencies. It has also undergone legal review by the Ministry of Justice.

With 105 deputies voting in favor, the draft law was adopted in its first reading. Four lawmakers opposed it, five abstained, and 14 did not vote.