Kazakhstan, EU Join Forces for Sustainable Water and Waste Management
Kazakhstan and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing environmental sustainability during the 17th meeting of the Kazakhstan–EU Dialogue Platform, chaired by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov on June 19, according to the Prime Minister’s press service.
Discussions focused on joint measures for water management, transitioning to a circular economy, and the adoption of advanced environmental technologies. Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the need to implement concrete projects and deepen cooperation with the EU, highlighting that efficient water use has become a national priority amid increasing pressure on Kazakhstan’s water resources.
Kazakhstan is currently implementing a national concept for the development of its water resource management system, prioritizing modernization of infrastructure and agricultural practices.
Collaboration with the EU has already yielded pilot projects under the Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA) program and the Team Europe Initiative on Water, Energy, and Climate Change, aimed at attracting investments and fostering innovation in the water sector.
Over the past decade, Kazakhstan has increased its waste recycling rate from 1% to 25%, with plans to reach 40% by 2030. The country is focusing on extended producer responsibility, infrastructure expansion, and energy recovery from waste.
The EU expressed its readiness to support major environmental initiatives in Kazakhstan and encouraged the country’s involvement in the Horizon Europe research and innovation program.
Germany pledged to strengthen cooperation under the Green Central Asia initiative, focusing on transboundary water management, climate risk mitigation, and the organization of a business mission involving water management companies to Kazakhstan.
Finland presented its wastewater treatment projects operating in Kazakhstan, while the Netherlands proposed constructing a desalination plant in Aktau with a capacity of up to 150,000 cubic meters per day, along with the development of a flood early warning system.
European companies also showcased technological solutions, including water reuse systems, digital resource tracking platforms, localized production models, technical centers, and mathematical modeling for treatment infrastructure.
Photo credit: primeminister.kz
