Astana Conference Marks World Water Day, Calls for Climate Action in Water Industry
A conference on 'The Impact of Climate Change on the Water Industry' took place in Astana, Kazakhstan. The event, attended by high-ranking officials and international experts, marked World Water Day with a ceremony presenting state and departmental awards. Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbaev and Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov were present.
The conference explored crucial topics such as flood and drought forecasting, digital solutions for climate change adaptation, water legislation regulation, and parliamentary initiatives for climate change mitigation. Acting Resident Representative of UNDP in Kazakhstan Sukhrob Khodjimatov emphasised the role of international partnership in water sector climate change adaptation. UNDP also supported the development of a new Water Code, incorporating innovative approaches like water-saving incentive mechanisms and national adaptation plans.
The Concept for the Development of the Water Resources Management System was discussed. This includes plans for water infrastructure construction and the introduction of water-saving technologies. Minister Nurzhan Nurzhigitov stressed the importance of developing comprehensive climate change adaptation measures and the adoption of the new Water Code.
The conference brought together domestic and foreign experts, including representatives from the United Nations Development Programme in Kazakhstan (UNDP). It highlighted the need for international cooperation and innovative solutions to tackle climate change impacts on the water industry in Kazakhstan.
