Implementing Low-Emission Zones in Almaty: Key Outcomes of the LEZ Workshop

On April 2–3, 2025, a practical workshop dedicated to the implementation of Low-Emission Zones (LEZ) in Almaty took place.
Over two days, representatives of local authorities, businesses, and public organizations studied international experience in introducing LEZs and discussed how these practices could be effectively adapted to Almaty’s urban context.

The workshop featured presentations, interactive sessions, and open discussions.
The first day focused on global experience: participants explored LEZ implementation practices in London, Milan, Amsterdam, and Warsaw. They discussed which vehicle categories may fall under restrictions, how to design efficient and equitable administration systems, what types of targeted financial support can be provided, who qualifies for benefits, and how other cities addressed vehicle renewal and disposal of outdated transport.

On the second day, participants analyzed practical aspects of implementing LEZs in Almaty.
Through brainstorming and discussions, they worked to define optimal LEZ boundaries within the city and identify methods for analyzing traffic flows and air quality. They also assessed how to consider socioeconomic factors in the local context and what incentives and support mechanisms could realistically be introduced for different population groups.

To conduct the workshop, experts from the UK-based consulting company Logika Group were invited.

Workshop Outcomes

By the end of the session, participants reached a shared conclusion:
For LEZ implementation to succeed, it is essential to ensure broad, timely, and meaningful engagement with businesses, civil groups, and the public. They also emphasized the need for clear communication about the health benefits of LEZs and the urgency of their introduction.

Three Key Priorities for Successful LEZ Implementation

1. Develop and implement a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process.
   This should aim to communicate the LEZ’s objectives, understand and address stakeholders’ concerns, and anticipate potential unintended consequences.
2. Establish a clear and specialized project management structure.
   A central leadership point must coordinate all key departments of the akimat (city administration) and the broader community, including data owners and operational entities.
3. Create a reliable emissions database for real driving conditions in Almaty.
   Such data will reduce uncertainty in forecasting LEZ air-quality benefits and provide a solid rationale for stricter enforcement of maintenance and inspection standards.

Participants formulated thirteen key recommendations related to data monitoring, control and management, real-time tracking, and public information campaigns.

The full workshop report is available here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RxDhMJ-zkaK4YBjB_gbOj6gNIgxxYn-7/view