Astana continues its comprehensive greening of urban areas. Currently, the capital boasts approximately 4.7 million green plantings, with an additional 14 million located within the Green Belt, according to the official website of the city's administration.

Each year, around one million new plantings are introduced in Astana, including about 70,000 trees.

Special emphasis is placed on planting large mature trees and perennial shrubs that are resilient to the urban environment and the specific climate conditions of the area.

One of the standout elements of the city's greening efforts is the introduction of panicle hydrangeas. These perennial ornamental shrubs are known for their long-lasting blooms and large clusters of flowers, whose colors gradually shift throughout the season.

Panicle hydrangeas are noteworthy for their excellent winter hardiness, allowing them to withstand low temperatures and, with proper care, adapt successfully to urban conditions.

Despite the challenges of cold winters, strong winds, sharp temperature fluctuations, and a short growing season, the careful selection of plants allows for the creation of a sustainable and diverse green landscape.

Blooming hydrangeas enhance the extensive efforts to develop the green infrastructure, beautify public spaces, and add striking seasonal highlights to the capital's image. Reports ЖКХ24, citing the website of the Astana City Administration.

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Kazakhstan has approved a professional standard titled "Digitalization and Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Energy Sector." The document, endorsed by the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, aims to set modern professional requirements in the realm of digital transformation in the energy industry.

Developed in accordance with Kazakhstan's Law on Professional Qualifications, the standard is part of the plan for developing and updating professional standards for 2026, a year declared by the Head of State as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence.

The project introduces new professions such as Smart Grid designer, engineer for AI development and implementation in energy systems, and cybersecurity specialist for energy networks. These professions are based on Kazakhstan's Atlas of New Professions and Skills and will guide the development of educational programs and workforce training for the energy sector.

The professional standard is applicable in the fields of electricity and heat energy, covering economic activities related to the implementation and operation of digital technologies, automation systems, data analysis, and the development and application of AI-based solutions. Specifically, it applies to processes for the production, transmission, storage, distribution, and consumption of electrical and thermal energy.

The document also outlines the use of modern digital tools, including automated process control systems (APCS), dispatch and technological control systems (DTCS), Smart Grid technologies, digital data and resources, as well as AI-based solutions. Moreover, the professional standard sets unified requirements for knowledge, skills, and competencies of specialists working with digital technologies in the energy sector.

Implementing the standard will update professional qualifications in line with the digital transformation of the industry, raise competency standards for specialists, and create conditions for training personnel to effectively use AI technologies and data analysis in the energy sector. Following its official publication, the document will be available on the Ministry of Energy's website and the National Qualifications System's digital platform.

reports ЖКХ24 citing the Ministry of Energy's website.

Photo: gov.kz