The state of the environment of the West Kazakhstan region (late 1990s – early 2000s)

Abstract

The article examines key aspects of the environmental state of the West Kazakhstan region in the late 1990s to early 2000s. It presents characteristics of the general environmental condition, atmospheric air quality, water quality, and environmental protection measures. An analysis of official data sources indicates that increased hydrocarbon production at the Karachaganak oil and gas condensate field (KOGCF) and other industrial enterprises led to a rise in gross emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere, particularly nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide. The authors highlight a significant risk of river pollution from heavy industry waste in the region. Moreover, the analysis reveals that despite ample water and mineral resources, the West Kazakhstan region did not effectively utilize them for agricultural purposes. In conclusion, it is evident that the environmental state of the region was negatively impacted by increased pollution of atmospheric air and water resources with toxic metals resulting from industrial activities.