The First National Consultation on Green Development Held in Kazakhstan
On October 9-10, 2024, the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy, in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), held the First National Consultation dedicated to discussing innovative and comprehensive strategies for "green" development in Astana, Kazakhstan.
The event brought together national and international experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to exchange experience and knowledge on key issues related to green development and industrialization. The main focus was on the macroeconomic and sectoral challenges and opportunities that could drive Kazakhstan and Central Asia toward sustainable development.
As part of his speech, the Head of the Project Office, Mr. Beisengazin, introduced all participants to the Foundation’s current projects, among which the Just Transition Strategy seems to be one of the most significant. Mr. Beisengazin also expressed special gratitude to the Eurasian Resources Group, one of the first to support the development of the Just Transition Strategy.
The first thematic session, "Energy Transition and Energy Dependency," focused on discussing the decarbonization of the oil and gas sector, the prospects of the coal industry, and the need for a comprehensive development of the energy sector, including renewable and alternative energy sources. Experts emphasized the importance of addressing the so-called "energy trilemma," which involves achieving carbon neutrality while simultaneously ensuring economic growth and maintaining the country’s energy security.
The second session, titled "Green Mobility and Climate Resilience: Pathways for Kazakhstan," discussed the reduction of emissions in the transport sector and the adaptation of infrastructure to climate change. In particular, experts explored ways to decarbonize the transport sector, highlighting the importance of developing electric transport and utilizing gas-powered and biofuels during the transition period. Special attention was given to the development of infrastructure and the promotion of innovative technologies to reduce the carbon footprint.
Participants also stressed the need to develop measures for adapting to climate change, considering the increasing climate risks for various regions of Kazakhstan. Tools were proposed to enhance the resilience of infrastructure and agriculture, based on the results of e3.kz modeling.
Speakers at the Consultation included leaders and representatives from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, UNCTAD, the Institute for the Development of Power Engineering and Energy Saving, and others. Experts from the Asian Development Bank, Kazakhstan Association of Regional and Environmental Initiatives ECOJER, the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and others also shared their perspectives on the prospects for green industrialization in Kazakhstan. Additionally, the academic community from Kazakhstan and abroad (Australia, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines) played a significant role in the event’s agenda.
The Consultation became an important platform for identifying pathways for advancing green growth in the region and developing strategies to promote sustainable development and energy security.
