In a significant recognition of Kazakhstan's natural treasures, Altyn Emel National Park and Barsakelmes Nature Reserve have been added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. The announcement came on September 20 during the 45th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage, held in Riyadh.
Altyn Emel National Park, situated approximately 250 kilometers from the city of Almaty in the Almaty Region, and Barsakelmes Nature Reserve, nestled within the Sahara-Gobi Desert zone of the Aral Sea basin, have been recognized for their unique ecological and cultural significance. These two exceptional sites have now earned a place on the global stage alongside other renowned World Heritage sites.
The inclusion of Altyn Emel and Barsakelmes in the UNESCO World Heritage List is a result of their participation in the transnational nomination known as "Cold Winter Deserts of Turan." This nomination was jointly prepared by Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, highlighting the transboundary importance of these desert ecosystems.
Kazakhstan's delegation expressed optimism that this new international status will shine a spotlight on the critical need for continued scientific research and effective conservation measures within the desert ecosystems of Kazakhstan. Additionally, it is hoped that this recognition will further the nation's potential for fostering sustainable and responsible tourism, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and fragility of these natural wonders.
The desert regions spanning Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan are known for experiencing some of the world's most extreme variations in temperature throughout the year. Specialists have recognized these regions as valuable in demonstrating the evolution and adaptation of land ecosystems to extreme climate conditions. Furthermore, they serve as vital habitats for numerous globally endangered animals and plants, making their preservation of utmost importance.
Altyn Emel and Barsakelmes are not the only Kazakh sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List. They join the ranks of five other remarkable cultural and natural sites in the country, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, the petroglyphs of Tanbaly, the Chang'an-Tian-shan Silk Road Corridor, Saryarka – steppe and lakes of Northern Kazakhstan, and Western Tien-Shan.
Notably, Altyn Emel and Barsakelmes are also part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, highlighting their integral role in global conservation efforts and sustainable development initiatives.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)