Digitalization of nature conservation in Ahal region
On February 17-18, 2026, a training session on modern territory protection methods using the SMART system was held in the conference hall of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Environmental Protection for the staff of the Kopetdag Nature Reserve and the Department of Environmental Protection of Ahal region.
The event was organized by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan together with the organization Conservation X Labs and local SMART system experts. The main goal of the training was to increase the effectiveness of territory inspection, biodiversity monitoring, and to develop practical skills for employees of environmental protection structures.
On the first day, participants went through a training seminar and practical preparation. The inspectors studied the working principles of the SMART system, an international standard for conservation activities. In the afternoon, a simulation of field work with experienced SMART specialists was conducted: recording incidents on smartphones (detecting animal tracks, checking camera traps, visual observations, recording violations), precise GPS marking, instant photo documentation, and route planning covering high-threat areas.
On February 18, the training was entirely dedicated to preparing SMART system operators: importing routes and observations, working with the database, analyzing information, and compiling reports.
A representative of the Ministry of Environmental Protection noted the strategic importance of introducing digital technologies for fulfilling state tasks on biodiversity conservation. For successful work, the organization Conservation X Labs provided all the necessary equipment.
Mastering SMART inspection technologies is part of the strategic course and concept of the esteemed President of the country, aimed at developing digital infrastructure, introducing technologies and electronic document management. The implementation of such solutions directly meets the objectives of creating a modern, technologically advanced environmental protection system.
Thus, the work of the Kopetdag Nature Reserve and the Department of Environmental Protection of Ahal region is transitioning to a qualitatively new, data-driven level, increasing transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of preserving Turkmenistan's unique nature.
ORIENT
