LocationsGCF and UNDP support solar-powered wells and ecosystem restoration in Sukhbaatar, Mongolia
October 22, 2026
Sukhbaatar Province, Mongolia, 22 October 2026. Solar-powered wells, protected springs and riparian reforestation are strengthening water security and climate resilience for herder communities in Sukhbaatar Province through the Green Climate Fund-financed Improving Adaptive Capacity and Risk Management of Rural Communities in Mongolia (ADAPT) project, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
For herders, water access shapes where livestock can graze and how they cope with dry summers and harsh winters. The project combines water infrastructure, ecosystem restoration and climate-informed planning to address these connected challenges. UNDP Resident Representative Lionel Laurens visited project-supported sites in Sukhbaatar Province from 21 to 22 October to hear directly from herders and local partners about results, long-term sustainability and potential for wider use.
In Sukhbaatar province, the ADAPT project supported the construction of 23 engineered wells and 20 hand-dug wells, as wells as the rehabilitation of 45 existing engineered wells. In 2026, 20 rehabilitated engineered wells across the project’s four target provinces were equipped with solar-powered pumping systems, including five in Sukhbaatar. These systems are expected to reduce fuel use and operating costs while improving access to water in pasture areas. Better water access enables herders to use previously underused pastures and rotate grazing, helping ease pressure on areas where livestock are concentrated.
“Climate adaptation works best when water, land and livelihoods are addressed together,” said Lionel Laurens, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia. “Renewable energy and ecosystem restoration can help herders manage climate risks while safeguarding the resources they depend on. Sustaining these gains requires communities to be at the centre, with the partnerships and support to maintain and expand what works.”
Since 2022, the project has also protected 22 natural springs in Sukhbaatar, including Khuuvriin Bulag in Dariganga soum. Fencing helps prevent livestock trampling and contamination at spring sources, protecting water quality and allowing surrounding vegetation to recover. Together with improved wells, these measures connect water access with the protection of natural sources. The project’s spring-fencing design can be installed without disturbing the surrounding soil and can be relocated and reused. Its technical specifications are also being adopted by other domestic and international projects and programmes.
At Ganga Lake, restoration began in 2023 with the planting of 24,000 willow and elm trees across on a 30-hectares to stabilise soil, limit sand movement and protect the surrounding ecosystem. Annual supplementary planting and care by local herders support the site’s recovery. This is part of 300 hectares of project-supported reforestation across Sukhbaatar province. Herders maintain planted areas and protective fencing while benefiting from opportunities to harvest hay for winter fodder.
The mission programme also included a fodder storage facility established in Baruun-Urt in 2023 to strengthen herders’ preparedness. Beyond individual sites, climate vulnerability assessments inform wider planning: the project has supported climate-informed Soum Territorial Development Plans for nine soums and management plans for the four river basins spanning Sukhbaatar.
Sukhbaatar’s provincial government has provided co-financing for ADAPT’s climate adaptation interventions, complementing support from the Green Climate Fund. This partnership illustrates how local investment in water, land and renewable energy can translate climate adaptation into practical gains for herders. Lessons from the mission and stakeholder consultations will inform UNDP Mongolia’s Country Programme for 2028 to 2032, helping shape future support to sustain and expand nature-based solutions.
About ADAPT
The Improving Adaptive Capacity and Risk Management of Rural Communities in Mongolia (ADAPT) project is financed by the Green Climate Fund and implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry, with support from UNDP. Working in Dornod, Sukhbaatar, Zavkhan and Khovd provinces, the project integrates climate information into land and water planning, advances climate-resilient resource management and strengthens herders’ access to markets for sustainably sourced livestock products.
About GCF
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is the world’s largest dedicated climate fund, supporting developing countries in pursuing low-emission, climate-resilient development. The GCF supports developing countries in achieving their climate ambitions and plays a key role in implementing the Paris Agreement.
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 build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Khulan Bayarsaikhan | Communication Analyst | UNDP Mongolia | khulan.bayarsaikhan@undp.org
