How Does The Private Sector Impact Air Quality: A Study by Almaty Air Initiative

The Almaty Air Initiative Foundation conducted a sociological study on the impact of the private sector on air pollution in Almaty and is ready to present its findings.

Heating in the private sector is one of the significant sources of air pollution in Almaty, which has more than 140,000 private homes. Yet the full extent of its impact remains underestimated. The study was conducted through door-to-door personal interviews, surveying a total of 1,000 respondents from private sector households across all districts of the city.

The Foundation aimed to directly hear residents’ opinions by exploring how home heating, bathhouse stoking, and waste disposal affect air quality, as well as the public’s awareness and support for potential bans and restrictions.

Key Findings of the Study
Private sector residents are less concerned about air pollution and less informed about air quality.

One in three residents believes the air in their area is good or very good, while among the general population, only 15% hold that view.

At the same time, 81% of respondents do not know where or how to check air quality, relying on subjective indicators — smell and visibility.

Air pollution influences residents’ desire to leave Almaty, but this desire is lower among private sector residents: 13% have considered moving, compared to 17% overall. Among wealthier respondents (monthly income over 600,000 KZT), 23% considered moving, which is lower than the 34% average citywide.

Main sources of pollution, according to residents
Respondents identified vehicles as the main source of air pollution. 57% support banning high-emission cars from entering the city center.

Second on the list was dust from roads and construction sites, especially concerning residents in Bostandyk, Alatau, and Turksib districts. Burning coal in private homes ranked fourth, along with emissions from coal- and wood-burning cafes and kebab shops, though in Bostandyk District, coal ranked third. Low concern about coal burning among private sector residents may stem from a lack of information or reluctance to admit personal responsibility.

Additionally, 18% of respondents cited burning trash and tires as key sources of pollution, especially in Almaly (23%), Auezov (24%), and Turksib (19%) districts. The issue is less common in Nauryzbay (10%) and Medeu (14%).

Gas is available, but the switch is costly
91% of respondents have access to gas. However, one-third of those not yet connected to gas have no intention of switching. The main barriers are high connection costs and bureaucratic procedures (e.g., paperwork or permits — 51%; general gas connection difficulties — 25%).

Despite that, 81% of residents said they would stop using coal and switch to gas if they received financial support.

Coal- and wood-fired bathhouses: a hidden threat
36% of private homes have a bathhouse, and half of those use coal or firewood. In some districts — such as Turksib (60%) and Auezov/Medeu (58%) — the figure is even higher. A total coal ban is supported by 41% of respondents, but among residents without gas connections, almost a third oppose such measures. Views vary by district: 53% in Bostandyk support the ban, while only 29% do in Turksib.

Trash burning is an unspoken problem
Only 1% of respondents admitted to burning household waste. However, 34% said they had seen neighbors burning trash, old tires, and unwanted items.

When asked how they dispose of fallen leaves, weeds, tree branches, etc., 9% said they burn them in stoves, bathhouses, or open fires. This shows growing awareness and discontent, even if few admit personal involvement.

Still, 62% support stricter penalties for trash burning (with the highest support in Zhetysu District — 68%), indicating demand for stronger regulation.

Information channels
65% prefer to learn about air pollution and its health effects via social media, a trend observed across all districts. Television ranks second, chosen by 30% of respondents.

Air pollution from home heating and waste burning remains a hidden yet serious problem. Residents often underestimate its impact or are unwilling to acknowledge their contribution. Financial barriers hinder a shift to cleaner solutions. Yet strong support for air quality measures shows society is ready for change, and accessible and effective alternatives are key to this solution.

Research Methodology
The study included 1,000 in-person interviews with Almaty residents over the age of 18, evenly distributed across all districts. Using the CAPI method (tablet-based survey), researchers assessed air quality perception, heating and waste disposal practices, awareness of pollution, and support for legislative measures.