In the vast steppe of Mongolia, the effects of climate change threaten the lives of nomadic herders. Zandan Lkhamsuren, a 48-year-old herder, is still dealing with the aftermath of a devastating winter that wiped out almost his entire flock of sheep. “Last winter was the toughest I’ve experienced,” he recounts while serving tea in his yurt, the traditional tent of Central Asian nomads.
Temperatures dropped to -42 ºC, accompanied by heavy snowfalls that blocked access to food for his sheep. Out of his flock of 280 heads, only two survived. This extreme phenomenon, known as dzud, has occurred more frequently in recent years, driven by global warming.
Mongolia is one of the countries most affected by climate change, with a temperature increase three times higher than the global average. According to the UN, dzuds, which used to happen once every decade, now occur alarmingly regularly.
Climatic conditions force herders to move. Photo: Wikipedia.
Economic and Family Challenges
The loss of livestock has led many families into economic uncertainty. Previously, the sale of sheep ensured Zandan’s financial stability, but now he relies on a smaller herd of goats, which better withstand extreme conditions. The situation has even affected the education of his daughters, who could not attend university in Ulaanbaatar due to lack of resources.
However, Zandan remains hopeful. His goal is to rebuild his herd and secure his family’s future. “It’s just a hurdle in the life of a herder, but I’m confident we can recover,” he affirms with determination.
Forced Migration to the City
Climate instability has forced thousands of families to abandon herding and move to cities. Enebold Davaa, another affected herder, lost over 100 goats, 40 sheep, and three cows last winter. “It’s our main source of income, so it was a very tough blow,” he confesses.
His wife is considering moving to Ulaanbaatar, especially to ensure their children’s education. However, Enebold resists: “I want to continue herding, maintain our way of life.”
Mass urban migration is transforming Mongolia. While some resist in the steppe, others have no choice but to leave, abandoning generations of nomadic tradition in search of stability in an increasingly unpredictable climate.
Herding. Photo: Wikipedia.
Climate Crisis Wreaks Havoc in Mongolia
Mongolia faces environmental issues such as:
Desertification
- 77% of Mongolia’s land is degraded due to overgrazing, climate change, and unsustainable practices.
Air Pollution
- Air pollution in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, is a serious problem.
- The concentration of particles in the air is between six and ten times higher than WHO’s safe levels.
- Carbon monoxide content in the air is 2 to 4 times the permissible amount in winter.
Loss of Biodiversity
- 24 out of Mongolia’s 360 bird species are endangered.
- The Golden Eagle is considered the country’s main bird.
Measures to Address Environmental Issues
- Raw coal was banned in 2019.
- Specialized agencies were created in the national and municipal governments to promote the clean air agenda.
- Carbon credit mechanisms were implemented to incentivize renewable energy production.
- Schools and kindergartens were renovated to improve energy efficiency.
Source: AFP.
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