Implementation of environmental activities in the oil and gas sector

Astana, November 21, 2009 (Khabar) - The Ministry of Environmental Protection proposes to change administrative-territorial division of the territory of former Semipalatinsk nuclear test site. It is about 18 000 square kilometers and nuclear test site was located in three regions - Karaganda, Pavlodar and East Kazakhstani ones. It should be done for convenience of management, followed by returning of land to the economy and the Ministry proposes to pass this area to one region and create a separate district. In total, it is planned to return about 80% of the lands of the former Semipalatinsk test site to economic use in the next two years. This has been reported by the Minister of Environment Nurgali Ashimov. The issue of implementation of environmental programs in oil and gas sector has also been discussed at the board office with minister’s participation. According to Nurgali Ashimov, 100 % of all environmental fees collected. However, environmental programs are not implemented and these companies cause serious damage to the environment. In particular, such large enterprises as the Atyrau refinery, “Kazakhoil Aktobe” and “Aktobemunaigas” violate the law. The minister said that currently only 4 companies work on associated gas and the remaining issue is crucial.

Nurgali Ashimov, Minister of Environmental Protection of RK:
- We operate strictly according to the law. If environmental program is not executed, emission permits will be primarily suspended. Sure, the enterprise will also be stopped.