Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture Pledges Support for COP17 Budget: What It Means for Our Planet

On May 5, 2025, members of Mongolia’s Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture met with officials from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. The focus was on legal reforms aimed at improving environmental protection in the country.

Minister Odontuya Saldan highlighted Mongolia’s commitment to three key international environmental agreements: the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. As part of these commitments, Mongolia will host the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) in 2026. This event will spotlight global efforts to combat desertification, emphasizing the need for active leadership from the Standing Committee.

Munkhzul Kharnuden, Director General of the Integrated Policy Planning Department, shared insights on ongoing legal reforms. She presented on the conservation of Mongolia’s natural resources including flora, fauna, forests, and water. The country is implementing the “Billions of Trees” National Movement to combat climate change and enhance biodiversity.

The Ministry laid out plans to update twelve laws and develop a draft Law on Climate Change. They are aiming for a long-term strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This includes expanding protected areas and enhancing water resource management, which is crucial in a region affected by desertification.

Chairman Beisen Bulan emphasized the need to address financial and budget issues related to hosting COP17. Committee members raised important questions about local community involvement in environmental projects. They stressed the importance of transparent communication about the benefits of initiatives, like the proposed water transfer projects in the Gobi region.

Concerns were also raised regarding the technical and economic feasibility of various projects, including the Orkhon-Ongi water transfer. Members sought clarity on funding models and the legal frameworks supporting these initiatives.

Environmental experts have noted that Mongolia’s proactive measures signal an important shift in how the nation addresses climate issues. According to recent statistics, global climate discussions are becoming increasingly relevant, with public awareness driving demand for sustainable practices. With over 60% of the population now prioritized climate education, the government’s steps are seen as timely and necessary.

As Mongolia continues to navigate complex environmental challenges, it is essential that local voices are heard in decision-making. Keeping citizens informed will foster collaboration and ensure that reforms truly reflect community needs.

This focus on a sustainable future aligns with the global goal of protecting 30% of the Earth’s land and water by 2030, a movement gaining traction worldwide. With robust plans in place, Mongolia is poised to contribute significantly to the fight against climate change.

For more information on international climate efforts, visit the [UN Environment Programme](https://www.unep.org).

Source link

Мэдээ, Монгол, Mongol News, News, Mongolian, Mongolia, News of Mongolia, politics, mongolian news, улс төр, спорт, нийгэм, валют ханш, цаг агаар, зурхай, улс төр, бизнес, мэдээлэл, шуурхай, шинэ