RES 2026 EXPO: Kazakhstan unveils concept for region's largest environmental exhibition
The official presentation of the RES 2026 EXPO international exhibition, which will be the central part of the 2026 Regional Environmental Summit (RES-2026) of Central Asia, took place in Astana. The event is organized by the International Center for Green Technologies and Investment Projects (IGTIC) and the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The exhibition and summit are designed to bring together representatives of government agencies, businesses, international organizations, and the scientific and expert community to discuss key issues of sustainable development, ecology, and green technologies.
Opening the presentation, Vice Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan M. Oshurbayev emphasized that environmental challenges require coordinated and global solutions:
"As the Head of State has repeatedly noted, the environmental emergency is a global crisis requiring a coordinated response. We bear a shared responsibility for preserving our planet and ensuring a sustainable future. This is precisely why the 2026 Regional Environmental Summit of Central Asia, supported by the UN, was initiated with the aim of developing a shared vision for a sustainable future for the region. The summit aims to unite political will, scientific knowledge, and practical solutions to address the most pressing environmental challenges, including transboundary water issues, climate change, and biodiversity conservation."
During the presentation, participants were introduced to the RES 2026 EXPO concept, key areas, participation format, goals, and objectives of the exhibition, as well as the extensive opportunities for partners, exhibitors, and investors. IGTIC Chairman of the Board S. Kalkamanov noted the high interest of international participants and the scale of preparations:
"The exhibition is positioned as an international platform for showcasing environmental innovations, exchanging experiences, and promoting technologies that facilitate the acceleration of the region's environmental transformation. An area of 11,000 square meters has already been leased; major companies and embassies from various countries are interested in participating and actively participating."
The event placed special emphasis on international cooperation in the green economy and the implementation of technological solutions capable of transforming the environmental agenda in Central Asia. Participants had the opportunity to establish direct dialogue with government agencies, businesses, and international institutions, as well as present their own developments on the international stage. RES 2026 EXPO Project Manager Shyngys Sher emphasized the strategic significance of the upcoming event:
"RES 2026 EXPO is more than just an event; it's a movement aimed at creating long-term and meaningful change for our planet. Through collaboration and innovation, we strive to accelerate the global transition to a sustainable future, where every step forward is a victory for the environment and future generations."
A key part of the event was the awards ceremony for the RES 2026 EXPO Organizing Committee, which was presented with a gold eco-label and certificate confirming its successful participation in the Smart Plastic Zone project. The award recognizes the implementation of sustainable plastic management practices and a significant contribution to the development of environmental responsibility.
The gold eco-label is awarded to facilities that have minimized their use of plastic, introduced alternative materials, and ensured separate collection and recycling of plastic waste. The award ceremony was held by Yulia Yakupbaeva, Chairperson of the Green Urban Association Board.
The RES 2026 EXPO presentation marked an important stage in preparation for the international event, strengthening dialogue between all stakeholders and setting a high bar for the large-scale environmental forum to be held in 2026.