GREEN BUSINESS MODELS IN UZBEKISTAN: HOW SMES CAN DRIVE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN THE DIGITAL AGE

The global shift toward sustainability and digitalization has placed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) at the center of green economic transformation. This article examines how green business models can be adopted and scaled by Uzbekistan's SMEs within the framework of the country's Strategy for Transition to a Green Economy for 2019–2030. Using a descriptive qualitative approach grounded in policy analysis and secondary data, the study identifies key barriers and enablers for SME participation in the green economy. Findings indicate that digital tools — including artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics — can significantly enhance resource efficiency, reduce carbon footprints, and create new circular economy opportunities for local enterprises. The article proposes three actionable policy recommendations for stakeholders, particularly for the academic and institutional community at TSUE. Key concepts analyzed include green entrepreneurship, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) integration, eco-innovation, digital transformation, sustainable value chains, and green finance mechanisms relevant to the Central Asian context.