Almaty, Kazakhstan, 10 September 2024 – The second day of the 14th Central Asian Leadership Program on Environment for Sustainable Development (CALP), which was held under the theme “Water Day”, was dedicated to water resources management, water diplomacy and gender equality in water issues.
The morning started with a session on “Water Governance: Concepts, Approaches and Frameworks” where experts discussed sustainable strategies for the region. Important presentations were made by Bulat Yessekin, who highlighted ways of sustainable water resources management in Central Asia, and Oyture Anarbekov, who spoke about climate resilient approach to water resources management. Tais Reznikova presented the concept of water footprint and its significance for the countries of the region.
Water diplomacy was the key topic of the second session of the day. Experts discussed transboundary cooperation as well as the role of the Blue Peace Index in solving water disputes. The session was concluded with an interactive water quiz organized by Farkhat Dusekenov.
After lunch, the participants dived into the topic “Water and Gender”. Important issues of women involvement in water resources management were discussed. Aigerim Karibay and Irina Yugay shared successful examples of inclusive approach in the region, emphasizing that gender equality contributes to more effective water resources management.
The final session of the day was dedicated to glaciers in Central Asia. Participants learned about the current state of glaciers from Dr. Thomas Sachs and forecasts for the future. Dr. Larisa Kogutenko spoke about how reducing the vulnerability of communities to glacier melting disasters can increase the region’s resilience to climate change.
The program will continue until September 13, bringing together experts and participants to find solutions at the intersection of ecology and sustainable development.
Additional information: Valeria Orlova, Education for Sustainable Development Program Manager CAREC, esd@carececo.com
