Abstract:
The article examines key aspects of the environmental state of
the West Kazakhstan region in the late 1990s to early 2000s. It presents
characteristics of the general environmental condition, atmospheric air
quality, water quality, and environmental protection measures. An analysis
of official data sources indicates that increased hydrocarbon production at
the Karachaganak oil and gas condensate field (KOGCF) and other
industrial enterprises led to a rise in gross emissions of pollutants into the
atmosphere, particularly nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen
sulfide. The authors highlight a significant risk of river pollution from
heavy industry waste in the region. Moreover, the analysis reveals that
despite ample water and mineral resources, the West Kazakhstan region
did not effectively utilize them for agricultural purposes. In conclusion, it
is evident that the environmental state of the region was negatively
impacted by increased pollution of atmospheric air and water resources
with toxic metals resulting from industrial activities.
