Kazakhstan is set to adopt a groundbreaking national ecotourism standard, effective June 1, aimed at preserving its unique ecosystems while promoting sustainable tourism.
Developed under the United Nations Development Program’s (UNDP) Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), this new framework is designed to minimize the environmental impact of tourism across the country, ensuring that Kazakhstan’s natural landscapes remain protected for future generations.
The standard incorporates global sustainability guidelines and draws on the recommendations from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). It also considers best practices from international certification systems like Travelife and EarthCheck, and integrates ecotourism criteria used in countries such as Slovenia, Malta, and Botswana. By doing so, the standard offers a comprehensive approach to eco-friendly tourism services.
UNDP representatives emphasized that the new standard is built to minimize tourism’s environmental footprint.
“This ensures Kazakhstan’s unique ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural landscapes remain protected, allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s beauty sustainably,” they stated.
The document covers key aspects of ecotourism, including ecotour classification, route planning, energy conservation, waste management, and biodiversity preservation. These measures will allow tourists to explore Kazakhstan’s natural wonders responsibly, without damaging the environment.
Consultations with key stakeholders, including government agencies in tourism, ecology, and health, as well as industry representatives such as tour operators, guides, guesthouse owners, and national park officials, helped shape the final standard. UNDP clarified that the standard is designed for a wide range of tourism service providers, including tour operators, travel agencies, accommodation providers, food services, guides, and excursion organizers.
In addition to environmental conservation, the standard emphasizes local community involvement, offering residents opportunities to develop tourist routes, establish guest houses, and participate in projects that help preserve Kazakhstan’s natural heritage. This ensures that ecotourism benefits local communities economically and socially.
By adopting this comprehensive ecotourism standard, Kazakhstan is positioning itself as an eco-conscious destination that meets global sustainability criteria. This initiative is expected to enhance the country’s international reputation as a green travel destination while attracting environmentally responsible tourists from around the world.
