Regional Disparities in Safe and Clean Environments in Uzbekistan: Analysis of 2021-2022 Uzbekistan Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey Data

Abstract

Background: Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services and clean fuels are representative factors of a clean and safe residential environment. Uzbekistan faces environmental issues and ranks low among countries on the Environmental Performance Index. This study aimed to identify regional disparities and wealth inequalities in WASH services and clean fuels in Uzbekistan. Methods: We employed raw data from the 2021-2022 Uzbekistan Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) and the WASH and clean fuels coverage were analyzed. For each of the variables with the lowest coverage within WASH services and clean fuels variables, we evaluated the disparities between urban and rural areas and calculated the concentration index (CI). Results: Among WASH services and clean fuels, basic handwashing and clean fuels for space heating demonstrated the lowest coverage. In most regions, urban areas had higher coverage of basic handwashing and clean fuels for space heating compared to rural areas. The CI of clean fuels for space heating was 0.2141 or higher in five areas. The CI was notably high in areas with low coverage of WASH services and clean fuel for space heating. Conclusions: Basic handwashing and clean fuels for space heating showed varied regional coverage patterns and wealth-related inequalities. The results of this study can provide evidence for policy formulation, particularly in addressing disparities.