Formula 1 on Water to take place at Issyk-Kul: environmental assessment gives green light

The organisers of the Formula 1 on Water World Championship have announced that the event at Issyk-Kul has received a positive environmental assessment. According to the organisers, independent experts and government bodies were consulted to assess the environmental impact.

The organisers stated that holding a competition of this calibre does not require a mandatory environmental impact assessment (EIA), but one was carried out additionally to allay public concerns. Experts examined the potential impact on the water, the atmosphere and the coastal zone.

The authorities have stated that following the races, the condition of the water body will be assessed by scientists from the National Academy of Sciences, representatives of environmental agencies and independent experts. Water samples will also be taken before and after the event.

“If there are any environmental consequences, however minor, arising from this project, we may decide not to hold the event in the future,” said the director of the State Agency for Tourism Development.

In recent weeks, the holding of races on Issyk-Kul has sparked public debate due to the potential impact on the lake’s ecology.

The Formula 1 World Championship on water will be held in Kyrgyzstan for the first time. The organisers hope to make the event an annual fixture.