By: Dinara Makhmud, Work and Travel alumna and Greenheart Impact Grant recipient
I launched the Recycling Awareness Campaign to promote separate waste collection and environmentally responsible habits in Shymkent, Kazakhstan. The project aimed to educate residents about recycling and sustainable consumption while encouraging long-term behavioral change. Through educational materials, surveys, workshops, and public events, the campaign reached more than 2,000 people and helped spark important discussions about environmental responsibility.
Research and Preparation
The first stage of the project focused on understanding the community’s awareness of recycling and sustainable waste management. Surveys and discussions helped identify key challenges and determine the best ways to engage residents.
Based on these findings, we created educational materials, including 300 full-color brochures, 500 informational flyers, and two large banners placed at universities and community centers. These materials explained the basics of separate waste collection and sustainable consumption.
An anonymous survey of 312 participants was conducted among students and teachers from Gymnasium No. 50 named after A. Baitursynov, as well as students and professors from M. Auezov South Kazakhstan University and the South Kazakhstan Medical Academy.
Key Findings
The survey showed that adults aged 19–40 reported relatively high awareness of environmental issues, while children and older participants showed lower levels of knowledge.
Despite this awareness, regular waste sorting remains limited, mainly due to a lack of infrastructure. However, respondents widely agreed that improper waste disposal harms the environment and supported the development of recycling facilities and environmental education programs.
Young people under 30 also expressed the strongest willingness to participate in environmental initiatives.
During the project, I also had the opportunity to meet Rae Kwon Chung, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and environmental advocate, who expressed support for our efforts to raise recycling awareness.
Workshops and Community Events
The main phase of the project focused on community engagement. We printed 50 environmental posters for schools, libraries, and public spaces.
We also organized three recycling workshops where participants practiced separating waste, along with two public environmental events featuring quizzes and contests to improve environmental literacy. More than 100 people directly participated in these activities.
Participants received eco-friendly prizes such as reusable bags and water bottles, helping encourage sustainable habits in everyday life.
Project Impact
Overall, the Recycling Awareness Campaign reached over 2,000 people through events and informational materials, helping increase awareness of responsible waste management.
Another important outcome was the development of a scientific research article titled “Assessment of Awareness and Behavior of the Population on Issues of Separate Garbage Collection Based on a Social Survey.” The article analyzes survey results and provides recommendations for improving environmental literacy and sustainable waste management in the region. It is currently under academic review.
Looking Forward
The project successfully achieved its goals and created a foundation for future environmental initiatives in Shymkent. With the support of Greenheart International and active community participation, it demonstrated how education and collaboration can inspire positive environmental change. This work is only the beginning. Continued workshops and community initiatives will help strengthen a culture of environmental responsibility and encourage more people to adopt sustainable habits.