PROGRAMS

EVENTS

CONFERENCES

In 2021, the Office, in collaboration with a professor from the Department of Botany at the Buketov Karaganda University, developed a design project for landscaping the Atrium of Nazarbayev University. The project included the planting of flowering plants and palm species, as well as recommendations for soil stabilization on the slopes of the staircase. Additionally, recommendations were provided for soil preparation in the Atrium flowerbeds according to the requirements of the selected plant species, as well as defining the technical specifications for the plants to be purchased.

In 2023-2024, the office, in collaboration with a professor from the Department of Botany at Buketov Karaganda University and Nazarbayev University student Batyrkhan Isembekuly, developed a design project for the reconstruction of green spaces in front of the entrance to Nazarbayev University. This project aims to: 1) Create aesthetic appeal by using a variety of tree species with different crown shapes, bark types, and other characteristics to provide year-round decorativeness to the area; 2) Form a softer microclimate on campus to mitigate the effects of heat, cold, and wind; 3) Create a sustainable "biome"; 4) Serve as a platform for various research, including the study of plant diseases and pests, adaptation to the climate of Astana, and its impact on local fauna.

Our office has developed the Rules for Handling Production and Consumption Waste at the Nazarbayev University. The document is available on the university's repository website. According to the Rules, the main goals are to reduce the negative impact of waste on the environment and the health of personnel; ensure compliance with the Republic of Kazakhstan's legislation on waste management; and ensure complete and accurate accounting of waste and its volumes. Additionally, for the convenience of students and staff, waste separation containers have been installed throughout the campus.

The office, in collaboration with Samsung, has installed "Samsung Recycling Ecobox" bins in the Library block for collecting electronic waste. The goal is to promote the separate collection and recycling of electronic waste among young people. Students and staff can drop off old small electronic devices of any brand, including phones, tablets, and accessories (chargers, headphones, watches, batteries, etc.), as well as other small electronic equipment.

The Office, in collaboration with the USM, organizes tree-planting campaigns on the Nazarbayev University campus as part of its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. These initiatives aim to enhance the greenery of the campus, improve the local ecosystem, and foster a sense of environmental responsibility among students and staff.

Since 2020, the "My Cup Please!" initiative has been actively running in the main cafeterias across the Nazarbayev University campus. This campaign encourages students, faculty, and staff to bring their own reusable cups or mugs when purchasing beverages, rewarding them with a 10% discount on their drink. The initiative was launched as part of the university's broader efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices.

The primary goal of "My Cup Please!" is to significantly decrease the consumption of single-use disposable cups, which contribute to environmental pollution and deplete valuable natural resources. By incentivizing the use of reusable containers, the campaign not only helps to minimize the university’s ecological footprint but also raises awareness about the importance of sustainable habits among the campus community.

The Office actively supports the organization of city-wide clean-up campaigns and collaborates with the student community, "Green Society," to regularly conduct clean-up activities in key areas of the city. These efforts aim to promote environmental responsibility, enhance urban spaces, and foster a culture of care for the community and the environment.

By supporting and organizing these events, the Office and "Green Society" aim to inspire others to take proactive steps toward creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment.

Each year, the Office organizes a variety of educational seminars and conferences aimed at engaging Nazarbayev University students, faculty, and students from other universities across Kazakhstan. These events are designed to raise awareness about sustainability, climate action, and other critical global challenges, while equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to drive meaningful change.
Key events include the SLL Conference, the SLL Boot Camp, which offers hands-on training and workshops for practical learning; and Sustainability Week, a series of activities promoting eco-friendly practices and sustainable lifestyles.
Other notable initiatives include the SLL Education program, which focuses on integrating sustainability into academic and professional contexts, and Climate Week, dedicated to addressing climate change through expert discussions, student projects, and interactive sessions. The LCOY Conference (Local Conference of Youth) brings together young leaders to exchange ideas and propose solutions aligned with global climate goals, while Climate Talks provide a space for open dialogue on pressing environmental issues.
These events not only foster a deeper understanding of sustainability but also encourage collaboration among participants, inspiring them to take active roles in creating a greener, more sustainable future. By inviting diverse audiences, including students from other Kazakhstani universities, the Office ensures the dissemination of sustainable practices and ideas beyond the Nazarbayev University campus, contributing to a broader impact on society.

In 2023, the Office co-organized the "Darmarka" event on the university campus. What is "Darmarka"? The primary goal of this initiative is to give a second life to your unwanted items. It encourages decluttering your home by donating items such as clothing, electronic devices, kitchenware, jars, and books you’ve already read.
Additionally, participants can bring items for recycling, including batteries, plastic containers, aluminum cans, cardboard, paper, expired medications, and used vegetable oil. All collected items are sorted into separate categories of raw materials and sent for recycling, where they are processed into new products and materials.
"Darmarka" not only promotes sustainable consumption but also fosters environmental awareness by emphasizing the importance of reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy.