LocationsUNDP presents results of the air pollution initiative in Almaty
October 30, 2024
Today, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan together with the Urban Center of Almaty Management University wrapped up the results of their joint efforts within the ‘Green and Safe Streets’ Initiative aimed at addressing air pollution in Almaty. This initiative is part of the regional City Experiment Fund programme funded by the Ministry of Finance of Slovakia. The wrap-up forum was attended by representatives of the JSC Almaty City Development Centre, international experts of the architecture and urban planning bureaus Gehl Architects, Denmark, and Urban Living, Kazakhstan, who presented international experience in sustainable urban development.
The ‘Green and Safe Streets’ Initiative was developed based on recommendations from public consultations involving more than 40 different public institutions, non-governmental organizations, experts and activists in sustainable urban development. The initiative included three interrelated clusters of activities: a social impact campaign, tactical urbanism actions that took place on Berezovsky, Turgut Ozal and Kazybek bi streets in Almaty, and the installation of air pollution measuring devices with subsequent development of methodological recommendations. These actions helped to identify further steps to address the complex challenge of improving air quality in Almaty.
“The ‘Green and Safe Streets’ initiative, as part of City Experiment Fund project, embodies our commitment to sustainable urban transformation. By focusing on environmental, social, and economic dimensions, we are fostering sustainable urban development that support health, economic growth and community resilience overcoming complex challenges like air pollution,”said Katarzyna Wawiernia, UNDP Resident Representative in Kazakhstan.
Air pollution is a systemic urban problem that requires a comprehensive approach due to its deep interrelationship with public health, economic growth, transport system, cultural life, and inclusive urban development. Poor air quality directly affects public health leading to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The transport sector, a major source of urban air pollution, requires a shift to sustainable mobility to reduce emissions.
The actions and approaches implemented within the framework of the City Experiment Fund are expected to help reduce air pollution by increasing green spaces, introducing energy-efficient technologies in the housing sector, improving infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, and prioritizing public transport. These measures, aimed at eliminating the root causes of pollution, should result in a reduction in harmful emissions and improvement in air quality, creating a more comfortable and environmentally sustainable urban environment.
The event also hosts an exhibition on social change, activating public spaces and using data for urban development.
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