Caspian Sea in Danger: Kazakhstan Initiates Emergency Measures

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In the face of rapid climate change and increasing anthropogenic impact, the Caspian Sea ecosystem is confronted with serious challenges. The declining water level directly affects the ecological sustainability and economic well-being of the Caspian countries, including Kazakhstan. These processes impact not only the marine flora and fauna but also industries dependent on water resources, such as fishing, transportation, and hydrocarbon extraction. For Kazakhstan, as one of the littoral states, preserving the unique ecosystem of the Caspian Sea and adapting to new conditions have become priority tasks.

In an interview with The Caspian Post, Aizhan Amangeldinovna Skakova, a national expert and member of the Public Chamber at the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan, discussed the scope of the problem, the measures being taken by Kazakhstan, and the prospects for regional cooperation. She also outlined strategies for protecting water resources, the importance of interstate cooperation, and how civil society can contribute to preserving the Caspian Sea’s unique natural heritage.

- The water level in the Caspian Sea continues to decline. How does this impact the environmental and economic situation in Kazakhstan?

- The Caspian Sea is the world’s largest enclosed body of water with a unique ecosystem and numerous endemic species found only in this region. Beyond its biological diversity, it contains significant hydrocarbon reserves and offers important transport and logistical opportunities. This makes the Caspian a vital resource for all five littoral states, including Kazakhstan. The drop in water level directly affects the aquatic ecosystem, reduces flora and fauna, and consequently impacts the socio-economic development of the country. The Caspian’s hydrological regime depends on various factors. The decline in water levels is linked to reduced precipitation in the basins of feeding rivers such as the Volga and Ural, as well as changes in atmospheric processes triggered by global climate change.

As a result, the water level is subject to significant fluctuations. For example, this year, we observed a slight rise in the sea level by about a meter due to spring floods; however, this is a temporary effect. Forecasts, on the contrary, indicate that rising temperatures and water evaporation will likely lead to further decreases in sea levels.

Anthropogenic factors also play a role—economic activity, hydrocarbon extraction, and water withdrawal increase the strain on the ecosystem. Kazakhstan is developing new projects for the Caspian region, taking these natural and climatic conditions into account and intends to focus on adaptation measures in the coming years.

- What measures is Kazakhstan taking to prevent further decline in the Caspian Sea's water level?

- One of the foundational international documents governing the protection of the Caspian is the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea, which entered into force in 2006. Kazakhstan was one of the first to sign this convention and is committed to its provisions, including cooperation in the event of oil spills, protecting the sea from land-based pollution, and preserving biodiversity.

At the national level, the Concept for Water Resource Management in Kazakhstan for 2024–2030 was adopted, aiming at water level restoration and adaptation to changing conditions. Within the framework of this Concept, efforts are planned through 2030 to reduce non-productive water losses, improve the condition of irrigation systems, and enhance the technical level of hydraulic structures. In 2023, a Caspian Sea Research Institute was also established by presidential decree, which will allow for deeper study of the causes of the sea’s retreat and develop measures to prevent further decline.

- Do you believe that coordination among Caspian countries could help slow or prevent the water level decline? What joint actions might be most effective?

- In 2003, the five Caspian states signed the Tehran Convention to protect and preserve the Caspian Sea's marine environment, mandating measures to prevent pollution and control anthropogenic impact. Kazakhstan, in particular, ratified three protocols to the convention concerning protection from land-based pollution, biodiversity preservation, and transboundary environmental assessment.

To stabilize the water level, it is essential to consider the anthropogenic factor and follow an ecosystem-based approach to economic development, taking into account the region’s natural and climatic conditions. Joint scientific research and a transition to water-saving technologies will also contribute to sustainable development. There is an evident need for a unified approach to water resource distribution and water rights for domestic and industrial use.

- In your opinion, how can awareness of the Caspian Sea’s declining water level be raised among the local population and the international community?

Joint efforts among Caspian states under the Tehran Convention can be enhanced through more active engagement of scientific and civil society communities, NGOs, investors, and international institutions. However, we currently lack a stable platform where all stakeholders can interact. Establishing a permanent digital platform would increase awareness and attract broad public involvement in addressing the region’s environmental challenges. It is also important to develop so-called "citizen science," which provides local populations and all interested parties with access to information and open data on the state of the Caspian Sea and its environmental issues.