CLIMATE LAW OF KAZAKHSTAN: LEGAL ANALYSIS AND WAYS TO IMPROVE DECARBONIZATION REGULATION

Abstract

Currently, many countries, including Kazakhstan, are at a stage that requires significant transformations in their economic models, including aspects related to ecology and climate. The recent approval of two key documents in climate policy (the Strategy for Achieving Carbon Neutrality of Kazakhstan by 2060 and the Updated Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Climate Agreement) highlights the need for a detailed analysis of the legal framework and practical challenges, considering the updated tasks in the field of decarbonization. The main objective of this study is to identify the key political and legal obstacles facing Kazakhstan in fulfilling its international commitments towards achieving carbon neutrality. Based on the study of relevant normative and strategic documents, the paper identifies existing problems and potential prospects for improving the legal regulation in this area. The analysis shows that at this stage, Kazakhstan’s legal framework does not contain clearly developed long-term plans (roadmaps) for implementing decarbonization goals, which complicates the implementation of climate policy. The following problem areas were also identified: lack of transparent mechanisms for the allocation of greenhouse gas emission quotas, weak harmonization with international law, insufficient institutional coordination, lack of legal incentives for business, and mechanisms for public involvement. Furthermore, some decarbonization measures conflict with current government programs, such as initiatives to increase the extraction of hydrocarbons. Given the similarity of challenges in decarbonization regulation in other countries, this study, based on Kazakhstan's experience, contributes to a deeper understanding of these issues and the search for solutions.