Background

Mongolia’s cashmere and leather sectors form the backbone of rural livelihoods and national light industry; however, their rapid expansion has placed increasing pressure on fragile grassland ecosystems, driven up chemical use in processing, and intensified pollution challenges in urban industrial zones. Pasture degradation, climate related shocks, outdated production technologies, limited traceability, and weak systems for managing hazardous waste have led to environmental and social risks across the supply chains, where women make up most of the workforce. A six-year project led by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry, together with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, works to promote innovative and circular materials, support cleaner and regenerative production, improve dyeing and tanning, strengthen wastewater and waste management, and expand digital and quality based raw material systems. These efforts aim to make Mongolia’s supply chains more competitive and sustainable while protecting the environment, herder livelihoods, and community health.

Objectives

The project aims to eliminate hazardous chemicals from Mongolia’s cashmere and leather supply chains by strengthening institutions, improving chemical management, and promoting cleaner, circular, and sustainable production practices, delivering environmental and economic benefits nationally and globally.