New short film from CAN EECCA, #WorldWeWant
The Karaganda coal basin, located in Kazakhstan, is one of the world’s largest coal basins, with coal reserves ranking third in the EECCA region. Unfortunately, the coal mining operations in the region have led to devastating environmental and social impacts, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and land degradation. These issues have caused health problems and displacement of local communities.
To raise awareness about the situation, CAN EECCA has released a new short film titled “Karaganda Coal Basin is Swallowing Kazakhstan’s Climate” as part of our #WorldWeWant campaign. The film features interviews with residents and activists who speak out against the harmful effects of coal mining and advocate for a transition to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.
Kazakhstan is one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, with its energy sector accounting for 82% of emissions. Coal-fired generation provides over 80% of electricity, with natural gas and hydropower accounting for the remainder. Although Kazakhstan ratified the Paris Agreement in 2016, the country has yet to set a coal phase-out date or consider the interests of local communities in national policy.
CAN EECCA hopes that this film will inspire people to support the transition to sustainable energy systems and raise awareness about the urgent need to address the environmental and social impacts of coal mining. It’s time for Kazakhstan to update its contributions to the Paris Agreement and start a just transition process towards a decentralized renewable energy system.
It’s important to acknowledge the efforts of local organizations in bringing attention to environmental issues and advocating for change. In the case of the recently released short film, “Karaganda Coal Basin is Swallowing Kazakhstan’s Climate,” a special thanks is to the local NGO Ecomuseum.
Their contribution to the creation of the video is invaluable and shows the power of local communities to take action in the face of climate challenges. Ecomuseum’s involvement underscores the importance of grassroots organizations in promoting sustainable development and climate action in the region of EECCA.
Ludmila Petrova, NGO Angel, Kazakhstan
“It is commonly believed that coal is the most affordable and easily accessible fuel source for Kazakhstan. However, the negative impact of coal mining, transportation, and slag disposal on both the environment and public health comes at a significant cost. In reality, coal is not cheap for the population, as the state subsidizes most of it through budget funds. This means that only a small group of individuals benefit from its use. Considering the high costs associated with coal, it would be much more profitable to invest in renewable energy sources (RES). Not only would this be financially beneficial, but it would also reduce the negative impact on the environment and public health. Furthermore, given the urgent state of multiple heating networks, thermal power plants, and boiler houses throughout the country, it is imperative to explore alternative sources of energy and heat. Investing in RES has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for citizens of Kazakhstan, both financially and in terms of environmental sustainability. It is time for the government and businesses to consider the long-term effects of their energy choices and prioritize the well-being of their people and the environment. By taking proactive steps towards renewable energy, Kazakhstan can secure a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”
What is the #WorldWeWant campaign?
The Climate Action Network, most prominent climate NGO network, is running the #WorldWeWant campaign to raise the voices of people on the front lines of the climate crisis through short films. Main aim is to demand from government to respond to climate problems with urgent actions.
Communities from all over the world tell their stories about how they suffer from the effects of climate change, fossil fuel extraction, and pollution and also about possible solutions.
How can you support the campaign?
Please watch the video and share it to social media platforms. Tell your story with #WorldWeWant
Do you notice the consequences of climate change in your village, city, region and country?
Do you remember the moment you realized how much the climate is changing?
Is there fossil fuel mining near you? Are fires blazing? Is the permafrost melting? Has it stopped snowing? Does the river freeze?
Tell us your story! Photo/video/text – any format in social networks with the hashtag #WorldWeWant
Resources:
– Website (ENG/RUS)
– Google newsletters
– Pages on social networks
#WorldWeWant
#shareyourstory
#climatechange
#100RES
