Author: Madina Ashilova
Mentor: Oksana Akulova
The rapid development of tourist infrastructure in the mountains of Almaty is threatening the population of snow leopards — the living symbol of the region. Construction in the gorges is destroying traditional migration routes, and the number of irbises is steadily declining. One possible solution is the approach used at the Ayusay Visitor Centre, where eco-friendly technologies are applied: buildings are installed on temporary supports, closed-loop water treatment systems are used, and careful consideration is given to the animals’ habitats. Environmentalists emphasise that only a balance between tourism development and nature conservation will allow Almaty to remain a home for its legendary snow leopards.
*The original video was produced in Russian
Video report prepared by a resident of the project: