Background

Mongolia’s rapid urbanization, driven by rural-urban migration since transitioning to a market economy in 1991, has led to unsustainable and non-inclusive urban growth, particularly in Ulaanbaatar, Erdenet, and Darkhan. Challenges include severe air and soil pollution, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, inadequate waste management, and vulnerability to climate-induced disasters, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations in informal "Ger" areas. Weak urban planning, limited institutional capacity, and financial constraints have further intensified environmental degradation and social inequalities. Addressing these challenges is critical for Mongolia to achieve its sustainable development and climate goals.

Objectives

The project aims to develop nature-positive, inclusive, net-zero, and resilient cities in Mongolia by integrating nature into urban planning, adopting nature-based solutions (NbS), promoting circular economy approaches for waste and water management, improving energy efficiency in buildings and sustainable mobility, and leveraging innovative financing mechanisms. It seeks to build institutional capacity, align with national development priorities, and create replicable models for sustainable urban transformation, with a strong focus on gender inclusion and private sector engagement.

Expected Results

The project will contribute to reducing environmental degradation, improving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and promoting sustainable land and waste management. Cities will benefit from improved land use planning, stronger policies, increased investments in green infrastructure, and enhanced institutional capacities. The initiative will ensure that environmental benefits are equitably distributed, particularly to marginalized groups, while fostering collaboration among governments, financial institutions, civil society, and the private sector to co-create innovative solutions for sustainable urban development.