The Cleanup Campaign on the Banks of the Karasu River in Astana United Hundreds of Volunteers, DKnews.kz reports
As part of the international environmental campaigns World Cleanup Day and #EUBeachCleanup, a large-scale cleanup event took place on the banks of the Karasu River in Astana. The event was organized by the Delegation of the European Union in Kazakhstan in cooperation with the Embassy of Estonia, with support from the Astana city administration and coordination by the "We Are for a Clean Country" environmental movement. More than 300 participants gathered to contribute to cleaning the capital of Kazakhstan and support global environmental initiatives.
In her opening speech, Head of the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan, Ms. Aleska Simkic, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in raising public awareness of pollution issues and the need for active measures. “The #EUBeachCleanup campaign is not just about picking up trash. It’s about each of us taking responsibility for our planet. Every individual can reduce their carbon footprint, raise awareness among others about environmental responsibility, and influence policies for a cleaner environment. Together, we can tackle waste pollution and inspire long-term change,” said Ms. Simkic.
The Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Mr. Jaap Ora, also delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to the organizers and participants. He highlighted the importance of this year’s event, as World Cleanup Day has now been officially included in the UN Calendar of International Days. “This initiative, which began in Estonia in 2008, is now truly global, and its official recognition by the UN further amplifies its visibility and impact,” Mr. Ora noted.
Participants: Diplomats, Eco-Activists, and Astana Residents
The cleanup event on the Karasu River brought together participants from various countries and continents. Among them were diplomats and embassy staff from Europe, America, Asia, and Africa, representatives of international organizations, eco-activists, youth, as well as residents and guests of Astana. Through joint efforts, they collected a significant amount of trash, including plastic bottles, which were sent for recycling.
Such environmental events are becoming an essential part of not only local but also international initiatives. This year, all regions of Kazakhstan supported World Cleanup Day as part of the national "Taza Kazakhstan" campaign. Similar events were held across the country, drawing attention to the issues of environmental cleanliness and promoting ecological awareness among the population.
Live Link with the United Nations and Global Support for the Campaign
One of the highlights of the event was a live link between the UN Office in New York and Astana, where Heidi Solba, President and Head of the global Let’s Do It World network and World Cleanup Day, addressed the participants. During the live broadcast, Ms. Solba noted that Kazakhstan’s participation in such international events is significant for the entire environmental movement. She emphasized that World Cleanup Day is a global platform that allows millions of people from around the world to come together and work towards a cleaner and safer planet.
The event concluded with a symbolic flash mob: participants formed a large heart to express their love for Planet Earth. This visual action became a symbol of unity in the fight for cleanliness and a sustainable ecological future.
Environmental Video Contest and Prizes for Participants
As part of the event, the winners of the Instagram Reels contest, where participants showcased their eco-friendly habits, were awarded prizes. The contest aimed to promote environmentally responsible behavior among youth and the broader community.
Global Initiatives #EUBeachCleanup and World Cleanup Day
World Cleanup Day is one of the largest global movements that annually brings together millions of volunteers from around the world. In 2023, the event attracted over 19 million participants from 198 countries, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels of involvement. Kazakhstan, by joining this movement, has become part of a global community working towards a cleaner and safer planet for future generations.
The #EUBeachCleanup campaign, in turn, is aimed at raising awareness about plastic pollution in water bodies and along coastlines. In 2023, 555 events were held in 44 countries as part of this initiative, with more than 45,000 participants. In Kazakhstan, the initiative was supported not only by diplomatic missions but also by regional administrations, public organizations, and local residents.
Results and Significance of the Event
The event in Astana became a vivid example of how people from around the world, through joint efforts, can make a significant impact for the better. Participants not only cleaned the banks of the Karasu River from waste but also demonstrated their commitment to ecological values, inspiring others to take similar actions.
The Delegation of the European Union and the Embassy of Estonia in Kazakhstan expressed their gratitude to all partners and participants for their active involvement and support of the #EUBeachCleanup and World Cleanup Day campaigns. Such initiatives not only strengthen international cooperation but also make a significant contribution to the development of global environmental awareness.
Environmental campaigns like #EUBeachCleanup and World Cleanup Day show that every individual can make a difference in protecting the environment. This movement continues to grow each year, bringing together millions of people worldwide, united in their common goal to preserve the Earth for future generations.
