On February 13, a public screening of the documentary film “Almaty? OK to Live with Smog?” by director Kuat Baysekeev took place at MEGA Almaty. The event was organized by the GreenUp.Kz Public Fund (Recycle Birge Environmental Movement) and the Almaty Air Initiative Fund.
Representing ALT University at the screening were Assistant Professor of the “Motor vehicles and life safety” Department, L.N. Bimaganbetova, and Advisor of the “Transport and construction” Institute, A.E. Abdualyeva. Along with other viewers, they not only watched the film but also discussed possible solutions to the problem.
The film highlighted the pressing issue of air pollution in Almaty, which has ranked among the top three most polluted cities in the world according to the IQAir rating. It presents the perspectives of environmentalists, activists, scientists, and residents while analyzing the causes and possible solutions to the smog problem.
Before the screening, the organizers gave a presentation sharing the origins of the film’s idea, and after the viewing, a discussion took place with the film’s protagonists and experts. Participants deliberated on the steps needed to improve the city’s environmental situation, what actions each resident can take, and how collective efforts can lead to positive changes.
Such events help not only to understand the scale of the issue but also to reflect on concrete actions that can change the situation. It is crucial for every resident of the city to acknowledge their responsibility for the environment and contribute to its improvement.
This issue aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13 – Climate Action. Thus, the event fosters ecological awareness and encourages people to take part in solving urban sustainability and climate change challenges.
