GLIP and “Zhashyl Klimat” project experts
Azat Alaman and Farida Balbakova visited 15 villages in Issyk-Kul, Naryn and Jalal-Abad regions. During the meetings held, the experts discussed the impact of climate on the life of local communities and problems related to the effects of climate change.
According to residents of high-mountain villages in Jeti-Oguz district, just 10 years ago the northern slopes of the pastures remained under snow all winter, and with the arrival of spring served as a feed base for livestock. In recent years there is practically no snow on these slopes, and livestock eat all the grass already in winter.
In spring, local residents are forced to buy hay, which, given the remoteness of the villages, becomes almost “worth its weight in gold”.
Snowfalls and downpours have also become more frequent in spring and summer, causing mudflows and floods. As a result, bridges and roads are washed away. High-mountain settlements find themselves cut off from the outside world.
Experts note that the climate is also changing in high-mountain communities. Increased livestock numbers, degradation of irrigated land, and global climate processes are having a significant impact on people’s lives and livelihoods.
The “Youth Resilience to Climate Change” project is implemented under the general coordination of the Norwegian Society for the Protection of Nature, in partnership with BIOM and GLIP, with the financial support of the European Union.
