Snow Leopard Conservation: Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul Nature Reserve will host a new “Ak Ilbirs” center with partners from Kyrgyzstan and Tatarstan to study and protect snow leopards, including joint mountain expeditions and genomic research; local numbers are reported above 550, up from 300–350 a decade ago. Climate & Water Security: Kyrgyzhydromet says Issyk-Kul basin glacier coverage has shrunk 33.7% versus older records, with retreat accelerating in recent years—raising concerns for river inflows that feed the lake and support farming and tourism. Heatwave Warning: The weather agency links last month’s record heat to a warming trend that is speeding glacier retreat and threatening mountain water supplies. Protected Areas Policy: Authorities propose a 20-year moratorium on reducing specially protected natural territories and downgrading their protection status, citing risks to ecosystems and biodiversity. Urban Greening & Air: Bishkek residents complain that newly planted trees are dying due to poor watering and planting choices; meanwhile, an environmental raid in Bishkek fined illegal waste dumping, and the city promotes public transport to cut emissions. Waste & Circular Economy: The Natural Resources ministry is tightening oversight and licensing for waste recyclers, building a digital registry to support licensed “green entrepreneurship.” Bishkek Infrastructure: Underground pedestrian crossings are planned across several streets starting Aug. 5, with temporary traffic restrictions during construction. Issyk-Kul Event Watch: Ecologists monitored water and air around the F1H2O water motor sports event, with officials saying Issyk-Kul ecology was not harmed. Regional Environment Link: A Greenpeace Germany report says an oil leak from a Russian shadow fleet tanker off Oman has expanded rapidly, threatening marine habitats.