ReStart: Moving Together Towards a Sustainable Future!

ReStart is the renewed version of the “3.2.1. Start!” project, which has been promoting proper waste separation and plastic sorting among young people in Kazakhstan for more than ten years.

In 2025, the project was rebranded as ReStart, expanded its mission, and reached even more universities across the country. Today, the project focuses on fostering environmental awareness, encouraging sustainable lifestyles, and helping students integrate waste separation into their daily routines.

On October 15, 2025, during the Civil Forum, an Action Plan for the implementation of the project was signed between the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, CCI Kazakhstan, and the Coalition for Green Economy and G-Global Development. This agreement marked an important step in uniting government, business, and civil society efforts to promote environmental culture among youth.

Astana International University actively supports the ReStart initiative and demonstrates tangible environmental results.

During the 2025–2026 academic year, AIU students collected and sent 2,045.83 kg of plastic waste for recycling. This achievement reflects not only a significant contribution to waste reduction but also the growing environmental responsibility of students.

Most importantly, participation in the project has encouraged students to reduce their use of single-use plastics and adopt more sustainable consumption habits.

A notable achievement was earned by the project coordinator, Aidana Kydyrova, lecturer at the Higher School of Natural Sciences, who received 2nd place among ReStart project coordinators.

The project contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 4 – Quality Education by promoting environmental literacy and awareness;

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production through waste separation and plastic recycling initiatives;

SDG 13 – Climate Action by reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact;

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening cooperation among universities, government institutions, businesses, and civil society organizations.

Thanks to the active participation of AIU students, 2,045.83 kg of plastic has been given a second life. Every kilogram collected represents a meaningful contribution to environmental protection, sustainable development, and a greener future for generations to come.