This report on 'Environmental Indicators for Central Asia' has been prepared to present the trends of twenty nine key indicators on air, water, land and biodiversity. It also presents trends on social and economic conditions through the selected indicators. Data have been collected for each indicator for each country in Central Asia for 1990, 1995 and 2000. This report provides an assessment of economic, social and environmental conditions in Central Asia based on available data and information. Lack of updated scientific database has been a major challenge in preparation of the report.

Palau is blessed with a wealth of natural resources. We enjoy clean air, clean water, abundant marine life, and healthy, productive reefs. Our stunning Rock Islands and majestic dive sites continue to draw admiration from around the world. But Palau’s wealth is not just found in its natural resources. Palau has also been blessed with a wealth of human resources and technical capabilities. The population of Palau is well educated and highly talented, and makes use of the most advanced computer and development techniques on a daily basis. Weaving these sources of natural and human wealth together is perhaps the most important resource of all: our traditions. Palauans maintain strong cultural ties to their land, their waters, and their history, and with these ties we strive to preserve and conserve all of our precious resources. This is not to say that Palau does not have its problems and pressures. Development pressure is strong and driven largely by economic motives. Balancing the benefits of development with the dangers of exploitation continues to be a challenge, but a challenge that Palauans are meeting head on.