Construction: Development and Environmental Impact. How is the Industry Addressing Ecological Challenges, and What Trends Shape Its Future? Insights from Almas Kissabekov, Construction and Technical Supervision Expert.
Ecology and Construction: Striking a Balance
The construction sector is a key economic driver but also a source of environmental risks. According to Almas Kissabekov, any intervention in the natural environment leaves a footprint.
“Construction affects land, air, water—everything around us. Even when all regulations are followed, the impact on nature is inevitable” the expert explains.
Key environmental challenges in construction include air pollution from dust and machinery emissions, noise pollution, waste generation, and impacts on water resources. The preservation of natural ecosystems during the construction of large infrastructure projects is a particularly pressing issue.
“At times, building roads or industrial facilities disrupts animal habitats or destroys bird nests. This is a reality we must acknowledge” Kissabekov notes.
Nevertheless, strict regulations are typically enforced under national legislation. Environmental codes require developers to assess ecological consequences, implement compensatory measures, and undergo rigorous inspections.
“Every construction project includes an environmental section outlining damage mitigation measures: tree replanting, land reclamation, and penalties for violations,” Kissabekov clarifies.
State authorities maintain tight oversight, with inspectors regularly auditing sites and demanding corrections for non-compliance. According to Kissabekov, the industry recognizes the importance of adhering to environmental standards, not only as a legal obligation but also as a matter of social responsibility.
Common Environmental Violations in Construction
The expert highlights the most frequent violations:
- Illegal tree cutting,
- Pollution of water bodies with construction waste,
- Unauthorized dumping of construction debris and failure to reclaim land.
Fines for such offenses are substantial, ranging from 30 to 200 MRP (Monthly Calculated Indicator) or higher. However, the focus lies on restorative actions.
“Punishment alone isn’t the priority—it’s about restoring ecosystems. Responsible developers compensate for damage by planting new trees, cleaning polluted areas, and more” Kissabekov emphasizes.
Implementation of Green Standards
Global environmental construction standards, such as LEED and BREEAM, are gradually gaining traction worldwide. These frameworks promote the use of energy-efficient facades, solar panels, water purification systems, and the greening of urban spaces.
“Buildings with green roofs, energy-saving technologies, and smart management systems are becoming a reality,” notes Kissabekov.
However, challenges persist. The primary barrier is the high cost of implementing such technologies. Additionally, Kazakhstan currently faces a shortage of skilled professionals capable of working with advanced environmental solutions.
“Solar panels, for example, require not only installation on rooftops but also integration into facades and parking zones, which increases expenses. But as technology advances, these solutions will become more accessible over time,” the expert asserts.
The Future of Construction: Development Without Environmental Harm
The construction industry’s growth hinges on balancing economic demands with environmental constraints. Strict oversight, the adoption of green standards, and growing public awareness of ecology are pushing construction companies to adapt.
“We cannot build without impacting nature, but we can do so more thoughtfully and responsibly” Kissabekov concludes.
Questions remain about the pace of adopting cutting-edge technologies and training professionals to work under these new conditions. Nevertheless, it is clear that construction is evolving beyond mere building erection—it is becoming part of a comprehensive strategy to create livable, environmentally sustainable urban environments.
Interview conducted by: Angelina Kim
