Forests play a vital role in preserving biodiversity and mitigating the effects of climate change. They are home to countless species of flora and fauna and act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing and storing atmospheric carbon to help stabilize the climate.
However, every year Kazakhstan registers between 600 and 800 forest fires within its state forest fund, causing significant damage to ecosystems and local communities.
In response, a training seminar titled “Prevention, Detection, and Response to Forest Fires” was held on April 2–3, 2025, in the city of Ridder. The event was jointly organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana and the national public association QazaqGeography.
The seminar brought together 50 representatives from Ridder and Pikhтов forestry enterprises, as well as the West Altai State Nature Reserve. Participants discussed:
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international best practices in wildfire management,
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risk reduction measures for mountain forests,
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and the efficient operation of forest fire services.
QazaqGeography expresses sincere gratitude to everyone working tirelessly to protect and preserve nature. Only through collective efforts can we ensure the safety of our ecosystems and build a sustainable future for generations to come.