The deputy requested information on compliance with environmental standards at this landfill and inquired whether the possibility of creating a waste recycling plant is being considered.
Minister of Natural Resources Meder Mashiev reported that the government is actively seeking ways to address this problem. In collaboration with a Japanese institute, a project is already being implemented aimed at bringing several landfills in the Chui region into compliance with environmental standards. Kyrgyz specialists visited Japan to familiarize themselves with best practices.
According to the minister, it is planned to include two to three landfills from the Chui region in the project. If the project starts this year, then next year Kara-Balta will be able to officially legalize its landfill and bring it to a normative state.
First Deputy Prime Minister Daniyar Amangeldiev added that projects for waste incineration aimed at generating electricity are also being implemented in the country. Similar initiatives are being discussed in Osh and Karakol.
He explained that within the framework of such projects, the state will act as an offtaker, purchasing electricity at elevated tariffs in accordance with agreements with the Ministry of Energy. Tax benefits are also provided for investors.
Amangeldiev noted that in the future, similar initiatives may be joined by Kara-Balta, Tokmok, and Jalal-Abad. Currently, negotiations are underway with potential investors, and project documentation is being prepared. According to preliminary data, the implementation of the solution may take one to two years.
Before launching regional projects, it is proposed to utilize the capacity of the waste recycling plant in Bishkek, which can process about 1,200 tons of waste per day. The government is considering the possibility of transporting waste from nearby cities to this facility.
The Cabinet emphasized that within a year, mechanisms for controlling and distributing waste flows between regions and the capital's plant will be developed.
