OSCE continues series of roundtable discussions on developing Kazakhstan’s Environmental Code

An OSCE-supported roundtable discussion on Kazakhstan’s new Environmental Code concluded on 28 April 2018 in Astana.

The event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana in partnership with the Association of Ecological Organizations in Kazakhstan for some 120 representatives from the Energy Ministry as well as business, international and civil society organizations.

Participants discussed the key environmental challenges and topics to be included in the new document in line with modern trends and the host country’s policy documents. The OSCE invited national experts who presented their recommendations and best practices on ways to enhance environmental impact assessments, environmental regulations and public participation in decision-making on environmental issues.

“The new Environmental Code makes it necessary to establish conditions which are economically beneficial by investing in the environment, reducing polluting emissions and investing in environmental measures, said Energy Minister Kanat Bozumbayev. “This, in turn, will allow entities to move away from penalties and fines."

Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana Ambassador György Szabó said: “Ensuring economic growth must go hand-in-hand with protecting the environment. Doing so requires appropriate environmental standards in accordance with international practices and requirements. In this regard, establishing a legislative environmental foundation is a timely step in addressing the threats and challenges facing the country.”

The event is part of the Programme Office’s long-term efforts to promote the “green” economy and sustainable development principles in strengthening environmental security.