Environmental Assessment of Solid Waste Pollution of Urban Areas (on the example of Shymkent, Republic of Kazakhstan)

: The environmental assessment of solid waste pollution in urban areas is relevant due to its impacts on the environment, public health concerns, alignment with sustainable development goals, informing policy decisions, and promoting resource recovery and circular economy practices. The purpose of this article is to assess the current state of municipal solid waste management in Shymkent and compare it with practices in other countries. The methods of this research included the method of induction, analytical methods, as well as methods of statistical analysis. In the course of the research, primary international documents and legislative acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan, theoretical publications, and research materials containing an analysis of certain aspects of municipal solid waste management were studied. This article assesses the state of municipal solid waste management in Shymkent, comparing it with international practices. It highlights the challenges faced by the city and presents recommendations for improvement. By implementing these recommendations, Shymkent can enhance its waste management systems and move towards a cleaner and more sustainable environment.