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Air quality has significantly worsened in 11 Kazakhstani cities, with authorities identifying the main culprits behind the smog. Contrary to common assumptions, industrial plants are not the primary drivers of this pollution. Instead, a substantial portion of the blame falls on everyday sources like vehicles and the residential sector.

Key Cities Facing Air Quality Challenges

According to "Kazhydromet," the most critical air quality situations have been observed in Almaty, Oskemen, Karaganda, Temirtau, and Aktobe. In Almaty, for instance, an estimated 60% of air pollution originates from vehicle emissions, with an additional 12% coming from private homes and small boiler houses.

Identifying the Sources of Pollution

The Ministry of Ecology has stated that a significant share of the pollution stems from smaller sources. "A considerable portion of pollution is attributable to minor sources – vehicles, the private sector, and small business facilities," the ministry reported. This finding shifts the focus from large industrial complexes to the cumulative impact of daily activities.

New Environmental Strategies Underway

In response to the worsening air quality, the ministry has tasked local administrations with developing new environmental action plans for the period of 2026–2028. These plans are expected to draw inspiration from Beijing's successful environmental initiatives. Key proposals include promoting gasification in the private sector, prohibiting the use of solid fuels in boiler houses and cafes, encouraging the transition of vehicles to electricity and gas, establishing green buffer zones around industrial areas, and designating specific ecological zones within cities.

Past Air Quality Incidents

This situation follows previous reports of severe air pollution. Earlier, the city of Oskemen was enveloped in a toxic fog, raising public health concerns. In early February, levels of hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide exceeded normal standards, prompting residents to wear masks and even gas masks outdoors. The air quality in Almaty has also been a persistent issue, with the "Almaty Air Initiative" ecological fund estimating that living in the city for a year is equivalent to smoking 518 cigarettes, with some districts experiencing even higher detrimental effects.