Schoolchildren to learn energy efficiency based on Japan’s model

The Minister of Preschool and School Education, Hilola Umarova, announced this in an interview with the “Uzbekistan 24” TV channel.

On February 19, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on proposals to improve energy efficiency and conservation. The plan includes setting consumption standards for electricity, gas, and petroleum products in industrial enterprises. Additionally, schools, kindergartens, and other social institutions will be equipped with solar panels and water heaters, while doors and windows will be upgraded to enhance energy efficiency.

Minister Hilola Umarova stressed the need for every school and kindergarten to enhance energy efficiency and raise awareness about energy conservation.

“This initiative is crucial for school principals, teachers, students, and the public as a whole. The Ministry of Preschool and School Education, in collaboration with the Uzbek Agency for Technical Regulation, has developed specific programs on energy literacy to ensure that every student understands the importance of energy resources. It is essential to instill awareness of energy conservation from an early age. In this regard, education will play a key role,” she stated.

According to the minister, informational booklets will feature simple and practical tips on reducing electricity, gas, and water consumption.

She also noted that responsible personnel have been appointed to oversee this initiative in 2025. Lessons on energy conservation will be integrated into school subjects such as Ethics, Geography, and Physics.

During the presentation, officials introduced plans to implement energy-saving education programs based on Japan’s successful model. The school booklets have been developed with insights from Japan’s best practices.

Japan has a wealth of experience in energy conservation. Following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, the country launched a nationwide movement known as Setsuden to reduce electricity consumption. In response to the temporary shutdown of multiple nuclear power plants, the government enforced energy supply restrictions for businesses and households alike.

That year, numerous measures were tested to curb electricity use. For example, metro and train stations switched off some escalators, while office buildings—including skyscrapers—reduced elevator usage, encouraging people to take the stairs for short distances. Excessive lighting was turned off in public spaces, and a significant cultural shift saw people willingly accept an increase of at least two degrees in air-conditioned buildings to conserve energy.

Japan has also introduced the SDG Award (aligned with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals) for private companies, supporting the Cool Choice movement, which promotes low-carbon products and services that help combat global warming. In a notable sustainability effort, Japan even pledged to create Olympic medals for the Tokyo Games from recycled electronic devices.

Extreme summer heat impacts students' health and academic performance. Despite financial and infrastructure challenges, Japanese schools have adopted measures to maintain a comfortable learning environment. These include upgrading air conditioning, insulating buildings, installing sunshades, and using mist sprayers in courtyards. Additional strategies involve lighter uniforms, breathable backpacks, free drinking water, scheduled breaks, portable fans, and green walls—vertical gardens with climbing plants that provide natural insulation and reduce indoor temperatures.