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Almaty is set to introduce a pilot project in 2026 aimed at creating Low Emission Zones (LEZ) for vehicles, a significant step towards improving the city's air quality. This initiative will involve restrictions on vehicles that do not meet specific environmental standards.

What are Low Emission Zones?

Low Emission Zones are designated areas where vehicles with higher harmful emissions are restricted or charged to enter. The primary goal of implementing LEZs in Almaty is to reduce the overall pollution levels in the city, which has been a growing concern.

Phased Introduction of Restrictions

While the pilot project is slated for 2026, the concept of paid entry for certain vehicles is not expected to be fully implemented that year. Officials have indicated that changes to the Environmental Code would be necessary for a full paid entry system. However, the city's maslikhat (local representative body) has already approved regulations that could impose restrictions on vehicles with lower environmental classes by the end of 2025.

Pilot Project Details

The Almaty Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection announced that the pilot project for LEZ implementation is planned for 2026. The exact boundaries of these zones are currently being defined. This pilot phase will allow authorities to assess the effectiveness of the measures and develop a long-term strategy.

Vehicle Emission Checks

The environmental class of vehicles will be determined at technical inspection stations (STO). Non-compliant vehicles will face measures in accordance with current legislation. This system ensures that vehicles entering the LEZ meet the required environmental standards.

Incentives for Older Vehicles

Recognizing that vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution, with cars accounting for 60% of total emissions in Almaty, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources is considering programs to buy back older vehicles. These programs would target cars falling under the Euro-0 to Euro-4 environmental classes. The compensation amount for surrendering a vehicle will be determined by the city administration, potentially supplemented by incentives like discounts on new vehicle purchases.

Monitoring Air Quality

Kazhydromet is responsible for monitoring air quality in Almaty, operating 16 stationary monitoring stations. The city administration plans to install three additional automatic stations in the Nauryzbay, Zhetysu, and Turksib districts. Information on emissions will be published monthly, and relevant authorities will be notified if pollution levels become critical.

International Best Practices

The introduction of LEZs in Almaty aligns with international practices adopted by many major cities worldwide to combat air pollution. Currently, Almaty is the only city in Kazakhstan planning such a comprehensive initiative.

Contingency Measures

Should the pilot project prove ineffective, the Ministry is prepared to consider stricter environmental and fiscal requirements for businesses, implement automated monitoring systems, and increase fines for non-compliance.

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