Fostering Environmental Culture: New Initiatives Presented by the Green Steppe Project

On November 21, Haileybury International School in Astana held a press conference for the "Green Steppe: Sustainability in Every Step" project, which aims to develop environmental culture, volunteerism, and sustainable development principles in Kazakhstan. The event was attended by environmental experts, regional project coordinators, representatives of educational organizations, young environmental volunteers, and government agencies.

The press conference addressed issues of particular relevance to Kazakhstani society. Climate change, biodiversity loss, air pollution, and overuse of natural resources require increased environmental responsibility and the development of environmental education.

Aiman ​​Karabalaeva, PhD, ecologist and senior lecturer at the School of Natural Sciences at Astana International University, presented a report on the initiatives being implemented as part of the "Zhas Galym" project. She emphasized the scientific basis for ecosystem restoration programs and noted the importance of engaging young people in environmental activities. Sholpan Bisembayevna Abilova, PhD, a senior lecturer at HSE AIU, presented a report on "Biodiversity Conservation," focusing on the need to maintain the natural balance, protect rare species, and foster environmental responsibility in society.

Aidana Salamatkyzy Kydyrova, a doctoral student at HSE AIU, and an ecologist and environmental activist, proposed practical methods for promoting an eco-friendly lifestyle among schoolchildren and young people. She emphasized that developing environmental habits from an early age is key to achieving sustainable development in the future.

Results in Sustainable Development Areas

Over the course of its first year, the "Green Steppe" project has united thousands of young volunteers and become a platform for dozens of environmental initiatives. Eco-clubs have been established in many schools, and environmental education has reached a new systemic level.

The project has demonstrated concrete results across the UN Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 4: Quality Education: training modules aimed at increasing environmental literacy are being introduced;

• SDG 11 Sustainable Cities: the number of environmental projects in urban areas has increased;

• SDG 13 Climate Action: tree planting, waste management, and nature restoration campaigns are held regularly;

• SDG 15 Life on Land: initiatives to protect rare species and develop nature reserves are supported;

• SDG 17 Partnership: cooperation between government agencies, educational institutions, NGOs, and volunteer movements is strengthened.

A Step Toward a Green Future

The press conference demonstrated the importance of open dialogue in fostering environmental awareness in society. The meeting of experts, educators, and young people provided a platform for discussing new ideas and exchanging experiences in sustainable development.

Caring for the environment is a shared responsibility of society as a whole, not just individual organizations or specialists. Projects like "Green Steppe" help develop environmental awareness and foster a responsible attitude toward nature among young people.