LocationsCIDCA and UNDP Boost Mongolia’s Forest Firefighting Capacity
December 11, 2024
Ulaanbaatar, 11 December 2024 – As part of its ongoing efforts to support Mongolia's forest conservation efforts and to strengthen the capacity of local fire suppression units, the UNDP’s “Strengthening Forest Firefighting Capacity Towards Green Recovery in Mongolia” project, funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), has delivered $350,000 worth of firefighting equipment to the National Forest Agency of Mongolia.
Over the course of the project, the goal is to equip 1,500 individuals, consisting staff of 38 forest units and 700 forest user groups across 16 provinces with firefighting gear, fire-protective clothing, and critical skills to manage and respond effectively to wildfire risks. In addition to the equipment, the project will offer comprehensive training for local communities and produce key resources such as forest fire model maps and a forest fire management finance plan, which will be finalized by February 2025. These efforts will significantly improve fire preparedness and resilience, providing crucial support for Mongolia’s forest conservation efforts.
As of 2020, forests cover 7.96 percent of Mongolia's land, with plans to expand this to 9 percent through Mongolia’s One Billion Tree Initiative. Wildfires are the leading cause of deforestation in the country. In 2022 alone, wildfires consumed 1.64 million hectares of forest. The frequency of these fires has steadily increased from 2021 to 2023, presenting a growing threat to local communities, wildlife, and the environment.
Forest user groups, who manage 30% of the country’s forest land, play a crucial role in protecting forest ecosystems. By enhancing their capacity through better training, equipment, and community engagement, this initiative is vital to ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of Mongolia’s forests.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Oyunsanaa Byambasuren, Director General of the National Forest Agency Mongolia, stated “This support is crucial for strengthening Mongolia’s capacity to protect our forests and respond to the growing threat of wildfires and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Government of People’s Republic of China and UNDP for their invaluable support.”
Her Excellency Shen Minjuan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of People’s Republic of China to Mongolia, "Forest fires pose severe threats to public health and the environment. As important neighbors sharing a border of over 4,700 km, it is in the interests of both China and Mongolia to fight wildfire. The Chinese government is committed to helping Mongolia enhance firefighting capacity."
Ms. Matilda Dimovska, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia, stated, “Mongolian boreal forests are integral to its ecosystem and the livelihoods of people and biodiversity. With the generous support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, this project strengthens local communities’ efforts to protect Mongolia's forests and build resilience to climate challenges.”
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About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.
For further inquiries:
Erdenebat Erdenejav | Programme Analyst | UNDP in Mongolia |erdenebat.erdenejav@undp.org
Ainur Aibyek | Communications Assistant | UNDP in Mongolia | erdenesukh.otgonbayar@undp.org
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