UNDP supports Kazakhstan’s sustainable development and environmental safety efforts
Katarzyna Wawiernia, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Kazakhstan, participated in a crucial discussion on ecology and sustainable development during a session of the Parliamentary Commission for monitoring the implementation of sustainable development goals held in Ust-Kamenogorsk city, East Kazakhstan, the UNDP Office in Kazakhstan informed.
Central to the discussion were issues of environmental safety, with a particular focus on air pollution in the region. In her address, Katarzyna Wawiernia noted the symbolic timing of the meeting coinciding with the world's observance of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing that clean air is a key component of the right to a healthy environment.
Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev highlighted that the country's existing air quality standards are outdated and fail to provide an accurate assessment. He proposed a reform of the standards system and amendments to national legislation in this regard.
A significant part of the discussion revolved around transitioning to modern green technologies, developing renewable energy sources, and enhancing energy efficiency. UNDP projects in this direction are seen as examples of successful initiatives. One such project involves the production of fuel briquettes from straw and wood waste, effectively replacing coal. This alternative fuel use could significantly contribute to solving air quality issues, especially in the industrially developed northern and eastern regions of the country where gas is unavailable.
The UNDP continues to support Kazakhstan's sustainable development efforts, including investments in ecological technologies and fostering international cooperation. Since 2018, UNDP has been a key player in implementing green projects, significantly influencing the country's ecological policy and practices. With UNDP's support, Kazakhstan conducted its first renewable energy auction, significantly boosting the development of alternative energy in the country. Additionally, the successful issuance of green bonds, supported by UNDP, has radically transformed the green financing market in Kazakhstan. Concessional financing, loan guarantees, and green bonds have enabled the mobilization of up to 10 US dollars for every dollar invested in the sector.
