Textile Industry Decarbonization: Sustainability Challenges in Uzbekistan's Cotton-to-Garment Value Chain

Over the past decade, Uzbekistan has undergone a dramatic structural transformation in its textile sector, shifting from an exporter of raw cotton to an integrated producer of yarn, fabrics, and finished garments. However, as global supply chains face mounting regulatory and consumer pressure to align with Net-Zero targets, Uzbekistan's full value chain faces serious environmental hurdles. This paper examines the decarbonization pathways and sustainability challenges along the nation’s cotton-to-garment value chain. It analyzes the key sources of carbon emissions—ranging from agricultural energy consumption and synthetic fertilizer usage to heavy reliance on a fossil-fuel-dominated power grid in spinning and wet processing. The study also evaluates structural bottlenecks, including water scarcity, high capital costs for green technologies, and compliance with international standards. Finally, actionable strategic recommendations are outlined for policymakers and private sector actors to foster a low-carbon, circular, and globally competitive textile ecosystem.