Mongolia’s ‘Billion Trees’ Initiative Plants 84 Million Trees to Combat Desertification
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – In a bold effort to combat desertification and the effects of climate change, Mongolia has planted a staggering 84 million trees since launching its national tree-planting campaign in 2021. The country’s presidential press office announced the significant milestone on Wednesday, highlighting the nation’s commitment to environmental restoration.
The “Billion Trees” campaign was unveiled in October 2021 by President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh during the United Nations General Assembly. The ambitious initiative aims to plant at least one billion trees by 2030, addressing the pressing issue of land degradation that threatens Mongolia’s ecosystems and livelihoods.
Since the campaign’s inception, there has been a remarkable increase—five to six times compared to previous years—in the number and size of trees, saplings, seed resources, and tree nurseries cultivated annually. This surge reflects a nationwide mobilization to restore forests and promote sustainable land management.
Desertification, exacerbated by climate change, has significantly contributed to the rising frequency of yellow dust storms in Mongolia in recent years, according to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. These environmental challenges not only impact Mongolia but also have transboundary effects, influencing air quality in neighboring regions.
Mongolia spans over 1.5 million square kilometers, yet less than 10 percent of its vast territory is forested. The ministry reports that nearly 77 percent of the country’s land has been affected by desertification and land degradation, posing serious threats to agriculture, water resources, and the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
The “Billion Trees” initiative represents a critical step toward reversing these trends. By fostering reforestation, Mongolia aims to restore degraded lands, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The campaign has garnered widespread support from government agencies, local communities, and international partners.
As Mongolia continues on this path, the success of the tree-planting efforts serves as an inspiring example of proactive environmental stewardship. The country’s dedication to ecological restoration underscores the importance of collective action in addressing global environmental challenges.
Cover image: An aerial view of the Eg River in Hantay Bag in the Bulgan province of Mongolia, July 1, 2024. /CFP
Reference(s):
Mongolia plants 84 million trees since 2021 to combat desertification
cgtn.com
