April 25-28, 2022, Nur-Sultan, Kyzylorda, Aktau | The new Environmental Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan effectively reflects the mechanisms and regulatory tools based on the experience of the OECD countries. One of such mechanisms implemented in the Environmental Code of the RK is a strategic environmental assessment (SEA). ECO-ARAL plans to pilot SEA of Kyzylorda and Mangistau provinces in order to promote sustainable development of the Aral Sea region. In cooperation with the Association of Environmental Organizations of Kazakhstan and International Financial Center “Astana”, project held consultations with representatives of the Ministry of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan and the Akimats of Kyzylorda and Mangystau provinces.
The participants got acquainted with the project plans to pilot the SEA in Kazakhstan, discussed a number of issues, including: the necessary preparatory works, the choice of regional strategic documents, the expected results and benefits of the SEA, etc. Already this year, based on the results of the consultations, the project together with the national partners will start SEA of development programs of Kyzylorda and Mangistau provinces.
In the process and based on the results of the piloting, taking into account international experience, the following will be developed: recommendations on SEA, improvement of environmental legislation in terms of SEA, improvement of existing or planned at the level of the province / district development programs to reduce the possible negative impacts on the environment and increase the efficiency of natural resources.