The «Kazakhmys» Corporation has announced the allocation of $5 million for the preservation of the ecosystem of Lake Balkhash. This statement was made by the Director of Sustainable Development at JSC «Kazakhmys Corporation», Saken Shayaqmetov, during his speech at the international conference COP29 in Baku.
At the international conference, supported by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, «Kazakhmys» held a dialogue session on the topic of «Water Resource Management of Lake Balkhash: International Cooperation, Research, and Funding». The session featured the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan Erlan Nysanbaev , the Chairman of the Water Resources Committee of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan Arsen Zhakaev , the Regional Director of Ernst & Young on climate change and sustainable development in Central Asia Viktor Kovalenko , as well as international experts from the USA, Finland, Iran, and representatives from organizations such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
While moderating the session, Saken Shayaqmetov emphasized the strategic importance of preserving Lake Balkhash. According to him, this issue must be a priority at both national and international levels.
«We cannot allow Lake Balkhash to meet the tragic fate of the Aral Sea. This lake is crucial for the lives of millions of people, the economy of the region, and the implementation of important projects that define the future of the country. We are ready to join forces with the global community to achieve this goal,» — noted Saken Shayaqmetov.
Earlier, in May, the Water-Climate Forum took place in the city of Balkhash, marking an important step in addressing the region's environmental issues. At the COP29 conference in Baku, the discussion was elevated to an international level. The next stage will involve the implementation of specific programs and projects to be developed with the participation of leading experts.
As part of the announced initiatives, Kazakhmys intends to develop research projects to study the ecosystem of Lake Balkhash and implement approaches for sustainable water resource management in the region. Special attention will be given to monitoring biodiversity and water quality, ensuring timely responses to changes in the ecosystem. Additionally, programs for environmental education of the local population are planned, along with the development of cooperation with international experts and partners to implement best practices in water resource conservation.
These initiatives, set to be implemented over the next 5–10 years, will improve the condition of the Balkhash ecosystem, reduce anthropogenic impacts, enhance the ecological responsibility of the local population and businesses, and create an effective model for sustainable management of the Balkhash-Alakol basin's natural resources.
Kazakhmys emphasizes that the preservation of Balkhash is critical to preventing ecological disasters similar to the drying of the Aral Sea or the current environmental challenges facing the Caspian Sea. Joint efforts of national and international partners will help maintain the lake as a vital natural and economic resource for future generations.
It is worth noting that earlier, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, spoke at the World Climate Summit in Baku and became acquainted with Kazakhstan's exhibition, showcasing the culture, innovations, and environmental projects of our country.