On August 20, another cleanup day was held in Shymkent's Al-Farabi district as part of the national environmental campaign "Taza Kazakstan." The district akim's office initiated the event, and district administration staff, specialists from the state-owned utility company "Al-Farabi," and active residents participated.

The event's goal is simple but crucial: to create a comfortable and safe living environment in the city, raise environmental awareness, and set an example of how, through joint efforts, we can transform the surrounding environment.

As a result of the work, more than 70 people participated in cleaning streets, courtyards, and public spaces. Four units of specialized equipment were deployed to collect and remove waste. Together, they managed to collect and remove approximately six tons of waste that had been accumulating in the area.

The Al-Farabi district occupies a special place in the urban fabric: it is home not only to residential areas but also to important cultural, business, and educational centers. The high population density and vibrant urban life make the issue of sanitation particularly pressing. For this reason, regular cleanup days have become part of the improvement program.

Compared to previous years, several positive changes can be noted. Just a few years ago, participation in such events was limited primarily to government officials and utility services. Residents typically remained on the sidelines, perceiving cleanups as the sole responsibility of city authorities. However, in recent years, this has changed: young people, students, and concerned citizens are increasingly joining the events. This time, it was noticeable that representatives of neighborhood committees also participated, a good example of self-organization.

Particular attention should be paid to the technical equipment used during cleanup days. While cleanups were previously carried out primarily by hand, the district administration is now using specialized equipment: loaders, dump trucks, and waste removal equipment. This allows for the removal of waste in just a few hours that would previously have taken several days.

Comparing the current campaign with similar events in previous years, it's clear that organizational evolution is also noticeable. For example, in 2021, during the spring cleanup in the same area, approximately 3 tons of trash were removed. Back then, the event was more symbolic, focusing more on raising awareness of the problem. This year, the work has become more systematic: each cleanup has a specific plan, and results are measured by tangible indicators.

It's also important that such events are no longer isolated events. They now take place weekly and are no longer perceived as a one-off campaign, but as a part of city life. This is also changing residents' attitudes: they are beginning to understand that cleanliness depends not only on public utilities but also on each individual.

The organizers note that the regularity of such cleanup days helps foster environmental awareness. After all, participating isn't just about picking up trash; it also fosters respect for the city. When people clean up the streets themselves, they're less likely to throw a piece of paper or a bottle in the wrong place again.

Participation by young people is especially important. In the Al-Farabi district, many students and schoolchildren attend such events voluntarily. For them, it's not only a contribution to the improvement of the area but also a chance to feel a sense of belonging. In previous years, such involvement was almost nonexistent: everything was limited to official structures.

Another aspect is support from local businesses. Some entrepreneurs provide equipment, supplies, and even drinking water and gloves for participants. This practice is becoming increasingly common in 2025, demonstrating the growing social responsibility of businesses.

Such campaigns are important not only for sanitation but also as a way to foster community cohesion. Residents, working side by side with officials and utility workers, understand their shared goal—to make the city cleaner and more comfortable. This reduces the distance between the authorities and the public, creating trust and a sense of unity.

Of course, a single cleanup isn't enough to solve all environmental problems. But regular and systematic events allow us to gradually reduce the number of illegal dumps, promptly eliminate waste, and, most importantly, prevent its occurrence. After all, cleanliness isn't just a result of cleaning, but also a habit.

The August 20 cleanup day in the Al-Farabi district was further proof that change is possible when all parties—government, utilities, residents, and businesses—are involved. Compared to previous years, progress is noticeable: the protests are becoming more widespread, organized, and effective.

A clean city isn't just about beautification; it's also a sign of culture. And culture begins with responsibility. While environmental campaigns were once perceived as a formality, they are now increasingly becoming a symbol of shared concern for Shymkent's future.