Kazakhstan residents’ awareness regarding revival of the Aral Sea and its economy

The Aral Sea is a textbook example of an avoidable natural disaster, resulting in the environmental and human devastation of a whole region with wide ranging implications. This study surveyed the people of Kazakhstan on their awareness of the disaster and how they believe it should be addressed. An online survey of 800 people was analyzed using logit regression. It found that about 90% of respondents were aware of the disaster and believed it to be on-going. Over 70% of participants believe it should be restored, along with the livelihood of the impacted communities, even if it involves closing the canals draining the Sea’s tributary rivers. Over 60% believed precautionary preemptive measures should be taken in the future to safe guard the environment. These beliefs were strongest among older participants, those with higher levels of education, and those living closer to the region.