Eco Vibes Only: 400 Strong at Astana’s #EUBeachCleanup

Participants - diplomats, students, NGO representatives, families, and volunteers from Astana and beyond - worked side by side to collect litter and restore the natural beauty of the riverbank.

EU Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Ms. Aleska Simkic, shared her gratitude and optimism with the crowd:

"Today, I am truly inspired by the dedication of all participants who have come together to clean the Essil Riverbank and support a greener Kazakhstan. The #EUBeachCleanup campaign reminds us that every action counts - whether reducing plastic, recycling, or simply picking up litter. I am grateful to every person who came to support the action. Together, we can promote environmental responsibility, foster sustainable practices, and contribute to a cleaner and healthier future for Kazakhstan, Europe, and the world."

Her words echoed the spirit of the day: small actions, when multiplied, can drive big change.

Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Mr. Jaap Ora, emphasized how the initiative has grown from a local effort in his home country into a truly global movement:

"An idea that started in Estonia has grown into one of the largest civic movements in the world, with nearly 20 million people from almost 200 countries taking part each year. I am pleased that Kazakhstan is part of this global effort. Together, we show that protecting our environment is a responsibility we all share."

Beyond Cleanup: Engaging the Community

The event offered more than just a cleanup. In partnership with Likekomek, participants could exchange bags of unused clothing for eco-friendly merchandise, raising awareness about textile waste. Volunteers also showcased their achievements in the "3 Steps to a Plastic-Free Life" challenge, while children and students enjoyed eco-quizzes and games hosted by Global Green Hub, a Kazakhstani social-educational company dedicated to sustainability.

A Global Movement with Local Impact

World Cleanup Day has become one of the largest civic movements in the world, now officially recognized by the United Nations. Each year, millions of volunteers across nearly 200 countries take part. This year, Astana proudly stood among them, showing how local action contributes to global change.

The European Union Delegation and the Embassy of Estonia in Kazakhstan expressed their deep gratitude to all partners and participants. The day's success highlighted that when communities, institutions, and individuals come together, a cleaner and greener future is within reach.