Central Asian countries intend to raise the level of
environmental education among young people. To achieve this, eco-lessons are
set to be introduced in educational institutions across the region. The first
step will be the launch of the Green School platform. Kazakhstan’s initiative
is expected to be approved at the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana in
April. The development of
the program was discussed in the capital with representatives of relevant
ministries from Central Asian states, international organizations, and experts.
Participants believe that schools are the best place to foster a responsible
attitude toward nature.
«This awareness must be instilled in every
young person, because tomorrow they will enter various sectors of the economy
and industry. This includes the oil and gas sector, which, as we acknowledge,
contributes to pollution, as well as the energy sector. Today, many areas of
the economy and production require technological modernization to reduce
emissions,» said Kazakh Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Yerlan
Nyssanbayev.
«Thirteen million young people and children in Central Asian states are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. These include water shortages, air pollution, drought and other challenges, which can be mitigated if we better understand climate change and how to slow its effects,» noted Rashed Mustafa, UNICEF Representative in Kazakhstan.
The
Regional Environmental Summit will bring together around 1,500 official
delegates from Central Asian countries. They
will discuss the most pressing issues,
including the restoration of the Aral Sea and the declining water level of the
Caspian Sea. An international green technology exhibition will form an integral
part of the event. More than 20,000 visitors are expected to attend, and 300
companies have already confirmed their participation.
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