OSCE supports workshop on Kazakhstan’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
ASTANA, 12 October 2015 – An OSCE-supported workshop on Kazakhstan’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions during the period of 2020-2030 took place today in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Some 70 representatives of the Parliament, the Ministries of Energy, Finance and National Economy, business associations, international organizations and civil society gathered for an overview of Kazakhstan’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) Plan. The Plan aims to achieve an economy-wide target of a 15% to 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
Participants discussed the current status and prospects of the emissions trading system in Kazakhstan and reviewed a set of recommendations to be presented to the Prime Minister’s Office aimed to improve the country’s legal and operational framework in mitigating climate change and regulating emissions.
Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister Vladimir Shkolnik noted that according to experts’ calculations, the country has sufficient potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but it faces challenges in adapting all sectors of the economy.
“In this context, we appealed to the international organizations to assist in the transfer of knowledge and new technologies to achieve our stated objectives in the joint fight to mitigate the effects of global climate change,” Shkolnik said.
Natalia Zarudna, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana said: "For the OSCE, the transition to green growth principles and the adoption of effective measures to mitigate climate change are of paramount importance because they are inextricably linked to stability and security.” She stressed the need for joint efforts of the government, parliament and society to achieve these goals and highlighted the importance of sharing relevant international experience.
The event was co-organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, the Energy Ministry, the European Union Delegation in Kazakhstan and the Green Academy Research and Education Centre.
The event is part of the Office’s long-standing efforts to promote green growth and sustainable development principles in the host country.