The results of the youth competition “Future of the Aral Sea – Creating Solutions Today,” dedicated to World Environment Day, were announced at the United Nations building in Ashgabat. The news was reported by the Orient News Agency.
 
The initiative, organized by UNDP in cooperation with the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan and supported by the GEF, showcased young people's interest in applying digital technologies to address environmental challenges.
 
Instead of traditional written submissions, participants presented 3D models and visual projects aimed at solving problems in the Aral Sea region. The exhibition attracted the attention of international experts and UN agency representatives, covering topics such as water conservation, combating desertification, and natural resource management.
 
According to Narine Saakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, engaging young people in the climate agenda is crucial for the region’s sustainable development, and the organization will continue supporting similar initiatives.
 
The jury recognized several projects in different categories. The award for Best Innovative Idea went to an AI-based digital model for the adaptation of the Uzboy River and the Aral Sea, developed by Lale Garyagdyyeva. In the Eco-Design category, projects on remote Earth sensing and “Green Protection” were honored, while the concept “A World at the Crossroads of Two Roads” was named the Most Inspiring Project.
 
The winners received certificates and prizes, while all participants were recognized for their creativity and environmental focus. The project became part of broader long-term efforts to promote environmental education and introduce technologies for restoring the ecosystems of the Aral Sea region.