Caucasus Environment Outlook (CEO-2)

The second edition of the Caucasus Environment Outlook (CEO-2) officially released in November 2024, represents an updated, comprehensive analysis of the environmental trends and challenges impacting the Caucasus region. Spanning Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkey, the report provides a clear snapshot of the current state of the environment across the region and lays out a roadmap for sustainable development in the face of mounting environmental pressures. 

The Caucasus Environment Outlook (CEO-2) publication is the result of years of productive cooperation and coordination among key partners and regional environmental experts committed to sustainable development. It was developed by the Caucasus Network for Sustainable Development of Mountain Regions (Sustainable Caucasus), UNEP, GRID-Arendal, University of Geneva and GRID-Geneva, combining their expertise and shared vision. This important initiative was generously funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Government of Norway, whose longstanding support has been instrumental in advancing sustainability in the Caucasus region.This updated version builds on previous environmental assessments, offering an in-depth look at key issues such as climate change, population growth, urbanization, economic development, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and air quality. These factors, each with far-reaching consequences, are reshaping the environmental landscape of the Caucasus, demanding urgent attention and coordinated action.  

The Caucasus region, known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, is facing significant environmental challenges that threaten both its natural resources and the well-being of its populations. Among the most pressing issues highlighted in the CEO-2 are:  

Climate Change and Water Resources - The report underscores the growing threat of climate change, particularly in the context of diminishing freshwater resources. With changing rainfall patterns, glacial retreat, and increased frequency of droughts, water security is becoming a critical issue for the region’s agriculture, ecosystems, and communities. 

Biodiversity Loss - The Caucasus is home to some of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, but rapid urbanization, deforestation, and habitat destruction are putting its biodiversity at risk. Many species are now facing heightened pressures, leading to a rapid decline in regional biodiversity. 

Urbanization and Economic Growth - While the Caucasus has seen substantial economic growth in recent decades, much of this development has come at the expense of the environment. Urbanization is encroaching on critical habitats, air and water quality are declining, and waste management systems are struggling to keep up with growing populations.

Key Recommendations 

The CEO-2 is not just a reflection of the challenges facing the region, but also a call to action. The report outlines a number of key policy recommendations designed to address these issues while promoting sustainable development. These include:  

Integrating Climate Change Adaptation into National Policies - The report stresses the need for national governments to incorporate climate change adaptation strategies into their development plans to ensure the integration of resilience to climate impacts into sectors such as agriculture, water management, infrastructure, and energy.  

Stronger Political Commitment to Environmental Protection - To effectively address environmental challenges, the CEO-2 emphasizes the need for stronger political will and regional cooperation. Governments must make environmental protection a central focus of their policy agendas and allocate the necessary resources to implement sustainable development strategies.  

Sustainable Urban Planning - With urbanization on the rise, the report advocates for a shift toward more sustainable urban planning. Cities should prioritize green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, waste management systems, and public transport options to reduce environmental impacts and improve quality of life for residents.  

Transboundary Water Management - The report also highlights the importance of cooperation on shared water resources, urging the development of transboundary water basin management plans. This will help the region address water scarcity and pollution challenges while ensuring equitable access to water across borders. 

The launch of CEO-2 serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for action and calls for greater collaboration between governments, civil society, businesses, and international organizations to implement the recommendations outlined in the CEO-2. Addressing these environmental challenges will require joint efforts and long-term commitment from all stakeholders.  

The final version of the Caucasus Environment Outlook (CEO-2) is available here.