On August 20, another large-scale cleanup day took place in Shymkent, organized by the Turan municipal state institution in conjunction with the ShymkentSpetsKompleks company. The event took place along Temirlanovskoye Highway, building No. 40. While such events may seem familiar to city residents, this cleanup day was noticeably different from many previous events, not only in its scale but also in its new approach to fostering environmental awareness among the population.

The main goal of the event was not simply cleaning the area and removing trash. The organizers deliberately placed an emphasis on fostering environmental responsibility and engaging city residents in a shared commitment to maintaining a clean environment. Traditional cleanup days in previous years were generally limited to collecting household waste, clearing dead wood, or clearing ditches. This time, the emphasis shifted to an educational and outreach approach.

The cleanup effort included not only utility workers, but also representatives of various public associations, students, high school students, employees of private businesses, and, of course, ordinary residents of nearby neighborhoods. Such a wide range of participants demonstrates that the cleanup is increasingly being perceived as a community effort, rather than a one-off initiative by the mayor's office or individual organizations.

Compared to previous years, it's worth noting that just five to ten years ago, cleanup days were held irregularly and were mostly timed to coincide with public holidays or the spring beautification month. Their main goal was to bring a visible sense of order to central streets and parks. As a result, the effect was short-lived: within a week or two, trash would accumulate in the same places again. Today, the situation is gradually changing.

This year's cleanup day was notable for its systematic approach and modern standards. The collected waste wasn't simply taken to the landfill, but partially sorted: plastic and glass were sent for recycling. Residents were given mini-lectures on how to properly separate waste and why it's important for the environment. This format had rarely been used before.

The organizers also emphasized an information campaign. Invitations were distributed in advance via social media, and an online broadcast was broadcast during the event, attracting additional attention from residents. In previous years, information was limited, and many residents learned about the cleanup days only after the fact.

The participation of young people deserves special mention. While previously such events were primarily attended by government employees, now students and schoolchildren have become active participants. For them, participation in environmental campaigns is becoming fashionable and prestigious. Moreover, it was young people who often took the initiative, suggesting installing waste separation containers or decorating cleared areas with greenery.

These changes are driven by several factors. First, Shymkent's population has grown significantly in recent years, and with it, the volume of household waste. This requires new approaches to waste management. Second, the city is increasingly positioning itself as a modern metropolis where environmental issues are becoming a top priority. Third, residents themselves are gradually changing their attitudes toward cleanliness: while the previous attitude was "it's the utility company's job," more and more people now understand that cleanliness depends on everyone.

This year's cleanup day also demonstrated another important trend: events are no longer one-offs. Organizers announced that such events will be held regularly, not just on the eve of holidays. This confirms that a culture of a systemic approach to city improvement is developing in the city.

Particular attention was also paid to the educational component. Residents were given talks on how to properly maintain their courtyards, the importance of not throwing trash in inappropriate places, and the penalties for violating public welfare regulations. This comprehensive approach gives hope that the impact of the cleanup days will be long-lasting, not temporary.

Comparing this year's cleanup with previous years, several key differences emerge. While the primary metric was previously the amount of garbage collected, now it's the involvement of residents and the development of environmental awareness. While previously the events were more of an administrative initiative, today they're evolving into a grassroots movement supported by the community itself. And while cleanup was once perceived as a chore, many now participate voluntarily and enthusiastically.

These changes are largely driven by global environmental trends. In various countries, the emphasis has long shifted from one-time events to developing sustainable habits. Shymkent is moving in the same direction, and this year's cleanup day is a clear example.

Thus, the event that took place on August 20th can be considered more than just a cleanup, but a full-fledged step toward creating an environmentally responsible society. It demonstrated that a city's cleanliness depends not only on public utilities but also on each and every resident. And the more people realize this, the sooner Shymkent will become a truly green and comfortable metropolis.