China’s Hunan Junxin Environmental Protection has unveiled plans to invest $600 million in three waste-to-energy plants across Kazakhstan, according to a recent announcement by Kazakh Invest. The initiative underscores growing cooperation between China and Central Asia in advancing green infrastructure and digital technologies.
The China waste-to-energy Kazakhstan project goes far beyond traditional waste disposal. In addition to the incineration of municipal solid waste, Junxin will build green data centers powered by renewable energy, introduce intelligent waste management systems, and establish training centers for local personnel.
“Our goal is not just to build plants but to implement an innovative approach to waste handling,” said Dai Daoguo, Chair of Junxin. “We aim to bring technologies that integrate recycling, energy generation, and digitalization. I’m confident this will be a major contribution to the region’s sustainable development and environmental safety.”
Smart Waste Management Meets Sustainable Power
Junxin, a leading private Chinese firm in the environmental sector with over 400 patents, is already developing a similar project in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The company’s approach combines environmental protection with industrial innovation—making it a prime partner for Kazakhstan’s green ambitions.
Azamat Kozhanov, Deputy Chair of Kazakh Invest, praised the proposal and pledged full government support, including facilitating access to state aid mechanisms. He emphasized that the project aligns with Kazakhstan’s broader goals of environmental sustainability and digital transformation.
Data Centers Powered by Waste
A standout feature of Junxin’s plan is the integration of data centers directly powered by the energy generated from incinerated waste. This dual-purpose infrastructure not only solves waste disposal challenges but also supports the region’s growing digital economy, with green power solutions that reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
This innovative model represents a first-of-its-kind approach in Kazakhstan, potentially positioning the country as a regional hub for sustainable tech.
Other Green Investments in Kazakhstan
Junxin’s proposal is part of a broader trend of foreign investment in Kazakhstan’s green and circular economy sectors. In a separate initiative, Turkey’s Köksan Holding is investing $84 million to construct a plastic recycling and PET production facility in Almaty, as announced by Mayor Darkhan Satybaldy in late June.
Both projects highlight Kazakhstan’s increasing appeal to international investors focused on clean energy, waste management, and industrial innovation.