President of the Eco Demi Foundation and ambassador of World Clean-Up Day, Aizhan Chynybaeva, discussed important issues regarding the restriction of plastic bag use in the Issyk-Kul region, their disposal, and the state of landfills on Birinchi Radio.
Chynybaeva emphasized that while measures to limit plastic bags are necessary, their implementation poses a complex challenge. The main problem remains not the use of plastic bags themselves, but their disposal. She noted that not all bulk products, such as sugar or rice, can be conveniently packaged in paper bags, complicating the search for alternatives.
According to her, the introduced restrictions aim to change consumer habits. "The country's leadership is striving to change people's mentality. Previously, plastic bags were mindlessly given out in stores, even for small purchases like chewing gum. Now, before making a purchase, they ask if packaging is needed, and a fee is charged for it, which already contributes to reducing their use," added Chynybaeva.
She stressed that such measures create awareness of the need to limit the use of plastic bags, especially considering their harmful impact on nature. Unfortunately, microplastics have already been found in the human body, highlighting the seriousness of the problem. Chynybaeva also noted that the prevalence of plastic bags in the Issyk-Kul region has already become less noticeable.
Additionally, she reported plans to build two plastic bag incineration plants in the Issyk-Kul region by the end of the year, which will help prevent waste accumulation in landfills. "This will be an important step in addressing the environmental issue," she noted.
Chynybaeva also reminded that a modern waste recycling plant based on Chinese technology has opened in Bishkek. She believes that ideally, waste separation should be organized, but the modern pace of life does not allow for this.
Previously, there were 88 official landfills in the Issyk-Kul region, but now their number has decreased to 10. This change will ensure that waste does not accumulate for many years and pollute the soil. Waste collection will take place at these 10 locations, and then it will be sent to two sites on the shores of the lake, where waste incineration plants will be built.
"Thus, we reduce the amount of waste and generate electricity. I hope this measure will be effective. We have no alternatives. If we look at the work of the workshops in Issyk-Kul, washing plastic bags consumes even more water. Therefore, burning bags and turning them into electricity is a more rational solution," concluded Chynybaeva.
