In Kazakhstan, a new environmental project , Smart Water Zone , is being launched for companies seeking to systematically manage their water footprint and implement modern environmental practices.

The project is being implemented with the support of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, the NAO IAC Water Resources, and the Astana City Akimat by the GPI Group, in partnership with Coca-Cola and the Green Urban Association.

Photo: Coca-Cola Kazakhstan

The initiative is a continuation of environmental projects aimed at developing a culture of responsible consumption, promoting sustainable development principles, and forming an environmentally responsible business community in Kazakhstan.

Previously, a similar initiative, Smart Plastic Zone , implemented by the project organizers, united more than 70 companies across the country.

Photo: Coca-Cola Kazakhstan

Today, issues of efficient water use are becoming part of strategic business sustainability. Smart Water Zone was created as a practical tool for companies willing to take a systematic approach to reducing their water footprint, implement ESG practices, and foster a new environmental culture. We see strong interest from businesses in such initiatives and hope that the project will become a platform for sharing best industry solutions in sustainable water management, the project organizers note.

Coca-Cola Kazakhstan emphasizes that the rational use and replenishment of water remains one of the company’s key sustainable development areas.

For Coca-Cola, water conservation is a priority in its global sustainability strategy. We support initiatives that promote responsible consumption and engage businesses in practical environmental solutions. The Smart Water Zone is an opportunity to bring together companies committed to implementing modern approaches to water management and reducing their environmental impact, the company noted.

Manufacturing companies, hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, offices, educational institutions, and other organizations interested in reducing their water footprint and developing ESG practices are invited to participate. Participation in the project is free.

Project participants will receive:

• independent express assessment of the water consumption and water resources management system;
• practical recommendations for improving water efficiency;
• access to educational materials and best industry practices;
• the opportunity to receive the Smart Water Zone badge – from Bronze to Platinum level;
• Incorporation of company best practices into the final report with an overview of industry solutions for reducing water footprint.

The Smart Water Zone label will be a distinctive mark for companies demonstrating a high level of environmental responsibility and commitment to sustainable development principles.

Photo: Coca-Cola Kazakhstan

To participate you must:

1. Fill out the form on the project website.
2. Pass data verification.
3. Obtain recommendations and the Smart Water Zone label for the appropriate level.

It’s important to note that issues of rational water consumption are currently among the state’s priorities. The new Water Code requires businesses to develop five-year plans for transitioning to recycled and reused water supply. Existing recycled and reused water supply systems must be modernized and improved, and the best available technologies must be applied. All businesses will be required to develop these plans by 2026, and starting next year, these plans must be implemented in stages.

Following the presentation, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Green Urban Association and the Information and Analytical Center for Water Resources, a non-profit joint-stock company of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The memorandum aims to develop cooperation in water resources, ecology, sustainable development, urban studies, analytical and expert work, and the implementation of joint initiatives and projects.

Photo: Coca-Cola Kazakhstan

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