Almaty Unveils 2037 'Green Innovation Hub' Plan
Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, has unveiled an ambitious action plan to transform itself into Central Asia's 'Green Innovation Hub' by 2037. The plan, published in 2022, aims to tackle environmental challenges, promote sustainable development, and enhance social and economic well-being.
The city, which joined the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's Green Cities program in 2019, is taking significant steps to reduce its environmental impact. One key initiative is the conversion of Almaty's largest coal power plant, Almaty-CHP-2, from coal to gas by 2026. This move is crucial as the city has been grappling with high air pollution, largely due to the coal-based energy sector, industry, and city traffic.
The action plan is comprehensive, outlining 30 short-term measures to be implemented by 2027 and long-term measures for the period between 2028 and 2037. It includes expanding climate-friendly public transport and pedestrian and cycling paths, creating water-absorbing green spaces, and improving air quality. The plan also aims to test the '15-minute city' concept by 2024, ensuring all residents can meet their basic needs within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
Almaty's action plan is a significant step towards sustainable development and green innovation. The city's commitment to reducing pollution, improving public transport, and enhancing urban planning is commendable. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on their effective implementation over the next decade and a half.
