In Astana, as part of the Regional Environmental Summit and RES 2026 EXPO, the winners of the first international ASTANA ECO FILM FESTIVAL, dedicated to ecology, sustainable development, and social responsibility, were awarded. The festival was held on April 22-23 and became part of the exhibition’s cultural and educational programme.

The festival received 51 submissions from 6 countries. A total of 15 films were selected, of which 12 were included in the main competition programme and 3 were featured in special screenings. The festival brought together more than 2,000 participants and guests, including representatives of international organizations, government bodies, business, the media community, and expert circles, as well as more than 1,000 viewers.

In addition to film screenings, the festival also featured an industry programme. It included the panel discussion “Eco Filmmaking / Green Storytelling: How Cinema Influences the Climate Agenda and Industries” and the workshop “Impact Content: How to Secure Funding and Enter the International Market.” Participants discussed the role of cinema in shaping the environmental agenda, green filmmaking practices, and mechanisms for promoting environmental and social projects internationally.

The jury included representatives from the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. Following the festival, the winners were announced as follows: Eco Film Contribution Award – Kura – Mother of Rivers (Azerbaijan); Best Eco Short Film – Earth and Moon (Uzbekistan + Azerbaijan); Best Eco Film – Mangystau – The Land of the Tethys Ocean (Kazakhstan); Spotlight Award – Homage to Water (Kyrgyzstan); Audience Award – Children of the Sun and Water (Turkmenistan); Best Impact Storytelling Award – King of the Mountains (Tajikistan).

ASTANA ECO FILM FESTIVAL brought together films addressing important environmental and social issues and reaffirmed the significance of cinema as a tool for public dialogue about a sustainable future.