Kazakhstan to expand protected areas with six new environmental institutions

Kazakhstan will create six new nature conservation institutions to preserve biodiversity, aiming to increase protected territories to 12.5% of the national area.

Kazakhstan is taking significant steps to protect its biodiversity with a new initiative announced by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. According to a Kazinform report on June 23, the country plans to establish six new specially protected natural areas. This move is part of a broader effort to increase the share of protected land to 12.5% of the country's total area.

The creation of these new environmental institutions is intended to safeguard rare species of animals and plants listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book. Alongside this expansion, the government will also enlarge three existing reserves: the Ustyurt State Nature Reserve, the Akzhayik Reserve, and the Caspian Seal Reserve.

These developments are outlined in a draft Concept on Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity for 2025–2035, which is currently in the works. The concept is designed to foster the protection and sustainable use of biodiversity, while ensuring fair distribution of benefits derived from genetic resources. It reflects Kazakhstan’s commitment to its international environmental obligations.

The document will form the basis for a national action plan over the next decade, setting out priorities and measures for preserving the country’s unique ecosystems and natural heritage.

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