“Clean Caspian: Interregional Cooperation” - Environmental Issues Discussed
On the occasion of International Caspian Day, observed on 12 August, a round table entitled “Clean Caspian: Interregional Cooperation” was held at Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University.
The event was jointly organised by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Regulation of Atyrau Region and Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University. The main objective of the meeting was to discuss the current environmental condition of the Caspian Sea and develop joint recommendations for the conservation of natural resources, protection of biodiversity and development of interregional cooperation.
The plenary session was opened by Bolat Aksholakov, Akim of Atyrau Region, who emphasised that the environmental condition of the Caspian Sea is a common concern for all coastal states. He highlighted the importance of coordinated action in addressing pressing issues such as declining sea levels, climate change and the reduction of water resources.
The regional Akim stressed the need to combine scientific knowledge with practical experience in ensuring the environmental safety of the Caspian Sea and to strengthen cooperation among government authorities, the scientific community and society. He also noted that systematic efforts are being undertaken in Atyrau Region to protect the environment, ensure the efficient use of water resources and preserve the Caspian ecosystem.
Salamat Nurmukhanuly, Chairman of the Board - Rector of Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, also addressed the meeting, focusing on the role of science and education in addressing the environmental challenges facing the Caspian Sea.
The Rector emphasised the importance of developing scientific research aimed at preserving the Caspian ecosystem, effectively applying research findings in practice, and further strengthening cooperation among scientists, government authorities and experts. He also highlighted the need to direct the University’s scientific potential towards environmental research and to engage young scientists in projects in this field.
During the round table, participants discussed the current environmental condition of the Caspian Sea, biodiversity conservation, the efficient and sustainable use of water resources, the impact of climate change on the marine ecosystem, and environmental safety issues in the Caspian region.
Mansiya Sanakkyzy Yesenamanova, Candidate of Technical Sciences and Professor at Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, delivered a report entitled “The Environmental Situation in the Northern Caspian: The Historical Legacy of Oil and Gas Activities, Current Environmental Problems and Sustainable Development Strategies.”
In her presentation, the scientist addressed key issues related to the environmental situation in the Northern Caspian, the historical legacy of oil and gas activities, current environmental challenges and sustainable development strategies.
The round table also featured presentations on scientific research into the Caspian Sea, environmental and chemical studies in the Caspian region, a comprehensive assessment of the aquatic ecosystems of the Volga–Caspian Basin, water resource management, the impact of declining sea levels on the biodiversity of the Akzhaiyk State Nature Reserve, and the restoration of coastal ecosystems.
The meeting brought together representatives of local government authorities, scientists from the academic community and higher education institutions, researchers from Mangystau Region and the Russian Federation, representatives of environmental and conservation organisations, public associations and volunteers.
During the meeting, participants exchanged views and put forward proposals aimed at ensuring the environmental safety of the Caspian Sea, conserving natural resources and strengthening interregional cooperation.
As part of the round table, active water-sector professionals, volunteers who have contributed to environmental protection, school students implementing environmental initiatives, and small grant recipients were recognised with awards.
Preserving the Caspian Sea is a shared responsibility of all coastal states. Scientific research, the exchange of experience and joint initiatives play an important role in ensuring a sustainable future for the Caspian ecosystem.
