— This filter consists of two components: the first blocks soot, and the second absorbs smoke and harmful gases. According to research data from the Department of Environmental Monitoring of the Ministry of Natural Resources, the efficiency of this device is 60% for harmful gases and over 70% for soot. It is installed on stoves that use fuel or coal. Working in the engineering field, I began studying this filter a few years ago. With the deterioration of air quality in the capital, the idea arose of how I could help solve this problem. Last year, I started developing and created four prototypes of the filter. Fortunately, the results turned out to be promising. Initially, I thought the device would only be useful for earth shelters, but now it is also being installed in baths and cafes. There is great interest in the product, and orders are coming in. Since the beginning of the year, I have installed about 50 filters, and my partners have installed another 15-20.
— What materials do you use to create the filter?
— The filter is made of special stainless steel and is installed in the chimney of each stove. The installation is quite simple — anyone can do it themselves. Currently, I am manufacturing the filters on my own and hold the relevant patent. In the future, I plan to establish cooperation with large companies and increase production scale. At the moment, it takes 3-4 days to make one filter. However, if we establish work with partners and acquire the necessary equipment, we could produce up to 100 filters a day. With funding and modern equipment, we can significantly increase production volumes.
— Initially, I presented the filter to the Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision, Meder Mashiev. The minister quickly instructed the Department of Environmental Monitoring to conduct an official inspection of the device. As a result, a commission was formed, including representatives from the ministry, department, and the Bishkek mayor's office, which conducted an analysis at four sites with installed filters. The outcome confirmed that the filter reduces harmful gas levels by 60% and soot by over 70%.
— Do you have students studying the filter manufacturing process?
— Yes, I have several students and partner firms studying the filter creation process. To systematically address the smog problem in Bishkek and the country, it is necessary to prepare many specialists. This requires government support. What assistance can the government provide? First of all, the legislation should be revised. Current law does not require the installation of filters on stoves that burn coal or wood. This issue should attract the attention of the deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh. Creating a legislative framework will help expedite the resolution of the problem.
— What do you see as the causes of air pollution in the capital?
— The causes of air pollution are diverse. However, estimates suggest that about 40-50% of pollution comes from earth shelters. Approximately 30% comes from vehicle emissions, 10% from heat and power plants, and the remaining 10% from other sources. Even if special filters are installed only in earth shelters, pollution levels could be halved. It is also important to monitor what people are burning: some use gas cylinders, bottles, rubber, and other waste for burning, which in turn leads to the release of toxic substances into the atmosphere. Therefore, transitioning to gas heating or alternative heating systems is necessary.
— Currently, my filters are installed at 50 sites, and 95% of users leave positive feedback. Of course, no device can be absolutely perfect, but this filter has significant potential. We can refine the project, correct deficiencies, and improve quality. However, at the moment, I am facing financial difficulties as I am working on this alone. The cost of making one filter ranges from 36,000 to 50,000 soms, and the selling price is similar. With financial support, we can significantly improve both the quality and the volume of production.
— Are similar innovative devices used in other countries?
— I do not have precise information about other countries, but after information about my filter spread, people from neighboring countries contacted me asking to come and install the filter for them. However, I declined, as I believe that this innovative device should first be implemented in Kyrgyzstan. It is the fruit of the labor of Kyrgyz people, and I am confident that it should become our national brand.
