11.27.2009, report, mongolian nature and environment legislative scorecard, the asia foundation
TRANSCRIPT
Fall 2008 & Spring 2009 Parliamentary Sessions
MONGOLIAN NATURE
AND ENVIRONMENT
LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Ulaanbaatar, 2009
greenstar
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Mongolian Nature Protection Civil Movement Coalition (MNPCMC) develops and delivers to voters andcitizens the on an annual basis. Itsgoal is to identify and promote environmentally friendly Members of Parliament and to encourage a systemof social responsibility and accountability.
The two previous editions of the Green Star evaluated three Parliament sessions and informed over 15,000citizens across Mongolia's 21 aimags about the environmental initiatives and protection efforts of Membersof Parliament (MP). We have appealed to the public to trust and re-elect environmentally friendly MPs. Weare confident that you, the voter, have received our appeal and elected those environmental championswho will prioritize environmental issues and constantly strive to strengthen environmental protection inMongolia.
In this edition, MNPCMC has evaluated the activities of the Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 Parliament sessions,the level of attention that MPs placed on the environment, and how pressing environmental issues wereaddressed in Parliament. We are happy to share this evaluation and information with you.
In the last year, climate change has increasingly become a pressing concern for both the internationalcommunity and Mongolia. We ask that our government develop a strong new policy on climate change thatmakes significant improvements. This is crucial because climate change in Mongolia is more serious than inmany other countries given that Mongolia, a large landlocked country, is heavily dependent on animalhusbandry and agriculture for livelihoods. Mongolia's air temperature increased by 2.1 °C between 1940-2007, and it is estimated that the annual air temperature will increase by 1.4-1.5 °C between 2010-2039, by2.4-2.8 °C between 2040-2069, and by 3.5-5.0 °C between 2070- 2099. Researchers predict that if thetemperature increases by 2 °C, agricultural activities will be severely affected, and countries will facedrinking water shortages and major reductions in fishing income. Additionally, if the temperature increasesby 3 °C, the world will face a food crisis and ecosystems will be severely damaged.
Our generation has witnessed Mongolia's climate changing over the past 40-60 years. We have heard,seen, and suffered from the danger and harmful consequences of climate change. We have also realizedthe potential disaster awaiting our children, and the next generation of Mongolian citizens. Our generationhas become “environmental criminals”, using many resources but not taking measures to prevent or adaptto climate change. In doing so, we are going to leave our children and future generations none of the“Motherland Gift” and “Treasure Share”, but rather the consequences of and responsibility for ecologicalproblems and environmental damage.
We believe that the government must avoid policies and decisions harmful to the environment such asremoving Special Protected Areas from legal protection, allowing mining without robust environmentalmonitoring and mitigation; and building carbon intensive energy and road infrastructure. We emphasizethat the government must develop and implement environmentally sound policies and decisions in line withsustainable development principles, such as reducing greenhouse gases, implementing climate changeadaptation strategies, investing in new, cleaner energy technologies, and increasing the production ofrenewable energy.
We can only solve the climate change problem if we start today and take appropriate measuresimmediately. Otherwise, we will remain a developing nation with great natural resources, lacking protectionfrom disasters and climate change that will cause significant losses from harsh weather. We must admit thatnatural disasters such as droughts, floods, strong storms, and heat waves have started to be more of aburden on people's lives and the poor budget of our nation. Let's fight against climate change together!
GreenStar: Mongolian Nature and Environment Legislative Scorecard
Chairman of theMongolian Nature ProtectionCivil Movement Coalition
B. Bayarmaa, Head of the “KhuvsgulDalain Ezed” Movement
Author's NoteAuthor's Note
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
MNPCMC is a non-governmental, non-profit organization. Its mission is to influence government
policy and decisions to prevent damage to and ensure the natural and ecological balance of
Mongolia, and protect citizen's right to live in a safe and healthy environment. We are a nationwide
coalition with 12 member movements operating in 81 soums across 10 aimags, working together to
protect the environment.
ABOUT THE MONGOLIAN NATUREPROTECTION CIVILMOVEMENT COALITION1
greenstar
MNPCMCMember
MovementsMission
Ariun SuvragaMovement
- Protect and preserve nature and theenvironment at regional and local level
- Stop environmental degradation from misuseof natural resources and improper humanactivities
- Rehabilitate the environment through localcommunity participation
- Ensure stable livelihoods of local residentsand provide them with legal and ecologicaleducation to protect their right to live in a safeand healthy environment
(8 Soums)Ovorkhangai Aimag(3 Soums)Orkhon, Tsetserleg,Tsenkher, and UrdTamir Rivers.
Buir Lake,Khalkh River,and NumrugBasinProtectionMovement
- Protect and rehabilitate the environment ofBuir Lake, Khalkh River and the NumrugBasin
Dornod Aimag(5 Soums)Buir Lake, KhalkhRiver and NumrugBasin
Onon UlzMovement
- Protect the Onon and Ulz river basins andtheir tributaries
- Provide ecological knowledge to localresidents to protect and preserve naturalresources, and educate future generations inenvironmental conservation
Khentii Aimag(5 Soums)Dornod Aimag(3 Soums)Onon and Ulz RiverBasin
Tuul SelbeEcologyMovement
- Protect the ecological balance of the Tuul andSelbe Rivers, and citizens’ right to live in asafe and healthy environment
Tuv Aimag(4 Soums)Tuul, Selbe RiverBasin
UuguulMovement
- Strenghthen civil society in Mongolia toprotect the basic rights of local people
- Protect and preserve the ecological balanceof local areas
Omnogobi Aimag(12 Soums)
D. Bilguun88859011
Khan KhentiiAav, KhatanOnon IjiiAssociation
- Protect and preserve the pristine nature ofKhentii Aimag, birthplace of the Great ChingisKhan
- Rehabilitate biodiversity, and improve civilsociety organizations and citizen engagementin making Khentii a “Green Aimag”
Khentii Aimag(3 Soums)
Voice ofKhongorMovement
- Protect the Baidrag, Tui, and Shar Us Riverswith local residents’ participation
- Rehabilitate Orog and Boontsagaan Lakes.
BayankhongorAimag (14 Soums)Baidrag, Tui, SharUs RiverWatershed, Orogand BoontsagaanLake Basin
Kherlen KhuduuAral Movement
- Protect historical and cultural values both atthe regional and local level
- Monitor irresponsible mining- Protect and develop the Kherlen River and
Khuduu Aral region with the support andparticipation of the local community
Khentii Aimag(2 Soums)Kherlen KhuduuAral Region(Historical origin ofGreat MongolianEmpire)
Khuvsgul DalainEzed Movement
- Preserve Lake Khuvsgul basin, and protectcitizen’s right to live in a safe and healthy
environment
Khuvsgul Aimag(3 Soums)Khuvsgul Lakebasin
KhuvsgulDelgermurunMovement
- Protect and preserve the ecological balanceof the Delgermurun River basin and itshistorical and cultural values, and pass thesevalues to future generations
Khuvsgul Aimag(7 Soums)Delgermurun Riverbasin
Eg-Uur EkhNutagMovement
- Preserve the pristine nature of the Eg andUur River basins, and make contributions toprovide healthy and safe living conditions forlocal citizens
Khuvsgul Aimag(7 Soums)Bulgan Aimag(3 Soums)Eg and Uur Riverbasins
ErdenetsagaanCommunityMovement
- Protect the motherland from ecologicaldisaster
- Develop responsible mining
Sukhbaatar Aimag,ErdenetsagaanSoum
D. Munkhuu95181404
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Activity LocationHead of Movement
Contact Information
Arkhangai Aimag G. Chagnaadorj
GreenStar
Who do we target with the GreenStar?
Why do we implement the GreenStar program?
What do we do within the GreenStar program?
is a program aimed at developing a rigorous system of responsibility andaccountability for voters and elected officials in Mongolia, identifying the next generation ofeducated, skilled, experienced and motivated Members of Parliament who will work to solvepressing environmental issues, and raising citizen and voter awareness on the environment.
We elect and re-elect to Parliament environmental champions in order to haveenvironmentally friendly representatives. We also aim to educate Mongolian voters aboutenvironmental issues.
We conduct advocacy activities to influence legislators to enact environmentally friendlylaws, and influence policy-makers to incorporate public opinion into government policy.
We inform voters and citizens of MP voting records and actions on environmental legislationand ecological issues. We urge voters to use this information to hold their elected officialsaccountable if they fail to safe guard Mongolia's nature and environment. We alsoencourage citizens to thank their MPs when they champion environmental issues.
ABOUT THE GREENSTAR PROGRAM
OF THE MONGOLIAN NATURE PROTECTION
CIVIL MOVEMENT COALITION
Within the framework of the GreenStar program,
the Mongolian Nature Protection Civil Movement
Coalition analyzes environmental legistion
approved by Parliament, provides information
on government actions and responses to
environmental issues, and scores MPs on the
votes they cast on environmental legislation. In
the previous two editions of the GreenStar, we
analyzed and scored the Fall 2006, Spring 2007,
and Fall 2007 Parliamentary sessions.
MNPCMC member movements and other NGOs
distributed more than 15,000 copies of the
WHAT DID THE 2004-2008
PARLIAMENT DO FOR
THE ENVIRONMENT?
GreenStar to citizens and voters across 21
aimags.
During these three sessions, Parliament:
Drafted two new pieces of
environmental legislation;
Approved twelve pieces of
environmental legislation;
Discussed environmental issues four
times during plenary sessions; and
Investigated the implementation of
environmental laws once.
Parliament Session
Environmentally FriendlyLegislation Drafted and
Approved*
Environmental Inquiriesand Investigations
# of NewLegislation
Drafted
# ofLegislationApproved
# ofInquiries
# ofInvestigations
Fall 2006 0 3 0 0
Spring 2007 2 3 2 0
Total 0 6 2 1
Fall 2007 0 6 2 1
*Note: Legislation drafted during one session may be discussed and approvedduring a later session. Legislation drafted by the Government andthe President is not included here.
Mongolia faces substantial environmental
challenges including extremely harsh weather, a
fragile ecosystem, limited forest and water
resources, and significant changes in weather
patterns due to climate change. Considering
these issues, Parliament's efforts to protect the
country's nature and environment fell far short
of adequate. We will continue to monitor the
effort and efficiency of the 2008-2012
Parliament in protecting our environment.
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
During the 2008 Parliamentary election
campaign, MNPCMC set-up “Green Gers” to
distribute the GreenStar to voters, support
environmentally friendly MPs for re-election, and
hold accountable the least environmentally
friendly MPs. We are pleased that one of the
most environmentally friendly MPs, B. Bat-
Erdene, was re-elected to Parliament, while two
of the least environmentally friendly MPs, B.
Jargalsaikhan and B. Erdenebat, were not re-
elected.
2.2 I n v e s t i g a t i o n s i n t o
i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f
environmental laws and
regulations
According to the above criteria, the
most environmentally friendly MP
was A. Bakei, with 16 points, while
the least environmentally friendly
M P s w e r e T s . B a t a a ,
B. Jargalsaikhan, and B. Erdenebat,
with 1 point each.
To identify the most and least environmentally
friendly Members of Parliament during these
three Parliamentary sessions, we used the
following criteria to measure whether MPs are
using their Parliamentary rights to legislate and
monitor environmental protections.
1.1 Initiation of environmentally friendly laws
1.2 YES votes for environmentally friendly
laws
2.1 Inquiries into environmental issues for
Parliamentary discussion
Criteria 1. Parliamentary right to legislate:
Criteria 2. Parliamentary right to monitor
and investigate:
WHO WERE THE ENVIRONMENTAL
CHAMPIONS FROM THE 2004-08 PARLIAMENT?
WHO LEFT MONGOLIA'S ENVIRONMENT BEHIND?
3 Most Environmentally Friendly Members of Parliament
3 Least Environmentally Friendly Members of Parliament
Member ofParliament
Parliamentary right tolegislate
Parliamentary right to monitorand investigate
Total Score
Initiation ofenvironmentallyfriendly laws
YES votes forenvironmentally
friendly laws
Inquiries intoenvironmentalissues forParliamentarydiscussion
Investigationsintoimplementation ofenvironmentallaws andregulations
A. Bakei 2 12 0 2 16Ch. Rad aa 2 11 0 0 13n
B. Bat-Erdene 1 10 0 0 11
Member ofParliament
Parliamentary right tolegislate
Parliamentary right to monitor andinvestigate
Total Score
Initiation ofenvironmentallyfriendlylaws
Inquiries intoenvironmentalissues forParliamentarydiscussion
Investigations intoimplementation ofenvironmental lawsand regulations
Ts. Bataa 1 0 0 0 1
B.Jargalsaikhan 0 1 0 0 1
B. Erdenebat 0 1 0 0 1
YES votes forenvironmentally
friendly laws
Areas of work Specific types of activities and services
1. Policy issues • Conduct surveys to update standards to be used for therestoration of land, water, forest, animal and plant resources
• Update environmental standards based on internationalstandards, and develop new standards on a contract basis
• Breed rare animals and plant plants that are becomingincreasingly rare
• Assess and evaluate activities of professionalenvironmental organizations, and make suggestions toaccept or reject the work done by NGOs
In Prime Minister S. Bayar's speech on “Five
Improvements” at the opening of the Fall 2007
Parliament session, he highlighted the
importance of decreasing the unsustainable
workload of state organizations by transferring
some responsibi l i t ies to civi l society
organizations. We appreciate that MNET
supports NGO activities through the following
initiatives and efforts:
1. Established a voluntary council to
support NGO activities by Order No. 30
of the Minister of Nature and
Environment, 2008.2. Announced 2008 as the “Year of
supporting NGO engagement in
environmental protection”.
3. On November 24, 2008, the Minister of
Nature, Environment, and Tourism
approved Order No. 51, providing a list of
6 areas and 21 services and activities to
be implemented by NGOs.
Table 1: List of services and activities to be implemented by environmental NGOs
Environmental NGOs sign cooperation agreement with theMinistry of Nature, Environment and Tourism (MNET)
THE BEST
ENVIRONMENTAL
EVENTS OF 2008
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
issues• Develop contracts with related state organizations to protect
sources of springs and streams
• Develop contracts with local administrative organizations toestablish basins to collect rainwater
3. Forest resourceissues
• Organize exhibitions to advertise the use of seeds, saplingsand fertilizers, and supply them to consumers within theframework of forestation and the Green Wall Program
• Support, strengthen and give professional advice topartnerships, organizations, and companies on forestmanagement plans
• Supervise public monitoring of illegal logging and theenforcement of the Law on Forests
• Organize trainings for citizens and introduce internationaland domestic best practices in forestation and combatingdust storms and desertification
• Manage public monitoring of reforestation, forestrestoration, the “Green Wall” program, and combating pestsand insects
4. Environmentalpollution issues
• Collect and incorporate public opinion into requiredstrategic projects
• Supervise implementation of the government policy to limitplastic grocery bags
• Participate in counting areas damaged due to mining
• Participate in research on environmental pollution anddegradation
5. Special ProtectedArea issues
• Manage public awareness activities of eco-gers within theadministration of protected areas, on a contract basis
• Organize trainings for Special Protected Area rangers
• Supervise protection and management of some areasunder local protected status
6. Hydrometeorologyand environmentalanalysis issues
• Supervise the organization of trainings to prepareprofessional personnel for the hydrometeorology andenvironmental monitoring fields
• Provide individuals and companies with information relevantto environment and hydrometeorology, and expand users ofthe information
• Carry out hydrometeorology and environmental monitoringsurveys based on requests from individuals, organizations,and companies in line with Mongolian laws and regulations
Areas of work Specific types of activities and services
2. Water resource
4. The Environmental Civil Council established to
improve NGO participation in environmental
protection held its first meeting on November 25,
2008 and included more than 300 environmental
NGOs.
5. On November 25, 2008, the Environmental
NGO Civic Council and the Ministry of Nature,
Environment and Tourism signed a cooperation
agreement. The cooperation agreement is valid
for four years, includes areas of cooperation,
collaboration principles, and the rights and
responsibilities of the Ministry and of the
Council. The parties agreed to discuss reporting
every year at the Minister's Council.
Principles and areas of cooperation between the Ministry of Nature,Environment and Tourism and the Environmental NGO Civic Council:
Cooperation principles Cooperation areas
• Law-abiding
• Mutual respect
• Equality
• Open and transparent
• Exchange ideas about pressingenvironmental issues
• Conduct monitoring on the awardingand implementation of environmentalprojects
• Monitor enforcement of related laws andregulations
• Share information
• Cooperate when developing draft lawsand policy documents
• Provide mutual support
On May 9, 2007, Resolution No. 130 issued by
the Governor of Bayanzurkh District gave a land
permit to a Korean invested company, Tuul River
Countryside Co., to develop a golf course near
the Tuul River. Throughout construction, the
company removed layers of soil, changing the
soil and ground water levels and altering the
riverbed. Construction of the golf course also
destroyed valuable pastureland used by local
herders in Gachuurt. The company used
chemical fertilizers on the soil, negatively
impacting the fresh water source for residents of
the capital city.
Capital City Administrative Court savescity's drinking water source
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Thirteen residents of Gachuurt, led by local
resident N. Erdene, filed a claim with the
Administrative Court of Ulaanbaatar. The court
supported the claim and canceled the permission
to construct a golf course on Ulaanbaatar's fresh
water source. MNPCMC congratulates the
Administrative Court for taking decisive action to
save the drinking water source of the city.
Until recently, Mongolia did not have any
economic assessment tools for environmental
impacts. This led to the dismissal of many
environmental cases and violations. The court
sited a lack of means by which to estimate the
costs of ecological damage in such cases.
In 2008, however, Order No. 207 of the Minister
of Nature, Environment, and Tourism approved
the ecological and economic assessment of
damages caused by mining production, and
methodologies for estimating ecological loss , on
a one year pilot basis. The methodology includes
assessments for damage caused to plants, soil,
water, animals, and air. It also provides an
opportunity to produce a complete evaluation by
anticipating damages that may be caused due to
land degradation. If the one-year pilot is
successful, the assessment and methodologies
will be approved permanently. This much-
needed step has created a legal environment for
estimating ecological damages from abandoned
1
MNET starts to claim damages from mining companies
mining areas, claiming damages, and using the
compensation for environmental mitigation
activities.
As a result, environmental grievances can now
be settled through litigation. The MNET has
estimated the environmental damages caused
by larger mining companies based on this
methodology, and has presented a claim of MNT
52 billion to the courts.
1“Ecological and economic assessment ofdamages caused by mining production, andmethodologies for estimating ecological loss”,Ministry of Nature and Environment, 2008
� Increase in harm and risks to society, the
economy and human health. Infectious
diseases will tend to increase due to
climate change's impacts on human
health, and economic productivity may
decrease.
The air temperature increase in Mongolia has
already exceeded the 2 °C threshold which
international researchers continue to warn
against. The Government of Mongolia must act
now to develop cost effective and efficient
adaptation strategies for the impacts of climate
change. At the same time, policy makers cannot
give up on mitigation strategies focusing on
energy, inf rastructure and industr ia l
development.
Scientists warn that if the global air temperature
increases by 2 C, ecological disasters will occur.
The global average air temperature has
increased by 0.74 C over the past 100 years.
Mongolia, however, is already experiencing a
more dramat ic c l imate change, wi th
temperatures increasing by 2.1 C over the past
68 years. 2007 was the warmest year since
1940, with temperatures 2.5 - 5.7 °C warmer
than multiyear averages.
Some researchers believe that due to global
warming, Mongolia has experienced the
following changes:
Decrease in annual precipitation during
the past 68 years by 8.7 - 12.5% in the
Central and Gobi regions.
Increase in heavy showers by 20% since
1980.
Change in total evaporation, soil
moisture balance, and ecosystem
production. The total surface runoff in
Mongolia increased by 2-3 mm per year
in the past 45 years.
Severe soil erosion and frequent dust
storms. Seven percent of land is severely
affected by desertification, and 34% is
moderately affected.
Rapid melting of permafrost and glaciers.
At current rates, in 2025 permafrost
coverage will be reduced to 43-45% of
present areas, in 2050 to 31-35%, and in
2080 only 27% of Mongolia's territory will
retain permafrost.
More severe and more frequent natural
disasters.
�
�
�
�
�
�
Temperatures increasing higher than global average
The Worst Environmental Events of 2008
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Natural disasters on the rise
In 2008 alone, the National Emergency
Management Agency recorded 2,700 natural
disasters in Mongolia. The resulting loss of life
included 264 people and 1,000 livestock, and
cost an estimated 20 billion MNT in damages.
The number of people killed in 2008 in natural
disasters increased by 21.7%, and the number
of people injured increased by 10.2% over
2007. Weather-related disasters such as
windstorms, sleet, heavy snow, heavy rain and
showers, hailstorms, thunder, heat waves, and
sudden drops in temperature killed 82 people
and injured 674.2
Government tries to overcome financialcrisis by digging for gold
Parliament convened an extraordinary session
on March 3, 2009 to approve a resolution
allowing “Measures to overcome financial
difficulties”. The resolution included nine
measures for implementation by the
Government and the Parliament. One of the
measures calls for spending 300 billion MNT to
support the mining sector and increase export
earnings by increasing gold extraction by an
additional 40 tons.
The Mongolian economy has grown heavily
dependent on mining revenues due to the Gold
Program, which has been implemented since
1991. As of 2008, about 30% of GDP, 60% of
industrial goods, and 73% of total export
commodities come from mining. Mongolia's
natural environment, however, is suffering
ecological destruction caused by irresponsible
mining. Large, gaping holes, tall dirt piles and
huge tailing ponds litter the Mongolian
countryside. Rivers and streams are drying up.
Air, water, and soil show increasing evidence of
pollution. The country's rich biodiversity
dwindles with each day that irresponsible mining
continues.
2Letter from G. Sarantuya, Director, Instituteof Hydrology and Meteorology, July 1, 2009.
Geological exploration affected 1,721.9 hectares
of land, and 14,565 hectares of land were
damaged by mining operations. At 120 sites in 36
soums across 11 aimags, companies and
individuals extract gold using illegal chemical
substances. One frightening statistic resulting
from this is that 53.5 hectares of soil and
203,508.8 cubic meters of sludge pits are
contaminated by mercury. It is universally
accepted that mercury contamination carries
The Red Taiga in Northern Mongolia, one of the
country's most unique natural landscapes, offers
high mountain ranges, taiga forest, and several
pristine rivers. Home to the endangered argali
sheep, ibex, snow leopard, bear, deer, elk, sable,
musk deer, otter, wild reindeer, and birds such as
snowcock and osprey, for generations the Red
Taiga has served as a safe haven for the region's
rich wildlife. The forest also boasts many
extremely rare plants included in the
such as Siberian Fir, wormwood, and
rhododendrons. An abundant source of fresh
water, the Red Taiga is the source of many rivers
such as the Delgermoron, Khog, Bus, Mungarag,
Guna and Borlog. These flow into the Selenge
and Enisei Rivers. Another unique feature of the
region is its indigenous people, the Tsaatan, who
depend heavily for survival and livelihood on the
natural environment.
In October 2008, around 1,650 ninja miners
descended on Soyo Bag of Ulaan-Uul Soum in
Red Book of
Mongolia
severe negative impacts on human health, food
safety, and the environment.
The MNPCMC opposes such negligent
decisions of the government that encourage
further mining of resources, instead of taking
measures to reduce the negative impacts on the
environment and human health perpetrated by
irresponsible mining.
3Report on the State of the Environment for 2006-2007,Ministry of Nature and Environment, p. 110.
3,000 Ninja miners destroy Khovsgol's Taiga
Khovsgol Aimag. After one month of active
artisanal mining, the local administration forced
the ninjas out. This was not the end of the
problem for the soum, however, as 3,000 ninjas
returned a short time later.
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
The Khovsgol Dalai Ezed Movement, My
Mongolian Homeland Movement, and Deedes
Mountain Academy traveled to the area with
MN25 television journalists to appeal to the
Khovsgol Aimag and Bayanzurkh Soum
Government to stop the illegal mining activities.
LocationPolluted Area Destroyed Land
Length(M)
Width(M)
Land(Hectares)
Length(M)
Width(M)
Land(Hectares)
Ulaan-UulSoum
ArkhemRiver
3000 1500 450 2500 40 10
Khereed-Khog River
280 100 2.8 180 30 0.54
Khog River(Middle)
150 80 1.2 150 25 0.375
Khog River(East)
140 80 1.12 140 25 0.35
KhavkhanRiver
150 80 1.2 150 30 0.45
Bayan-zurkhSoum
Altgar River 260 150 3.9 160 35 0.56
The areas polluted and destroyed by ninja miners in Khovsgol's Ulaan-Uul and Bayanzurkh soums:
4
Ninja miners are now also washing gold in the
Khog, Ar Khem, and Khavkhan Rivers. As of
today, 460.2 hectares of land has been polluted
and 12.2 hectares of land destroyed in Ulaan-Uul
and Bayanzurkh soums.
4Letter from Ch. Urtnasan, Director, Khovsgol Aimag Environment and TourismDepartment to Ministry of Environment, Nature, and Tourism
In addition, MNPCMC calls on the government
to save this unique area and protect it from the
severely detrimental environmental impacts of
ninja mining by placing it under special state
protection.
Total (Hectares) 460.22 12.275
5Mongolia's Specially Protected Areas, D.Myagmarsuren, D. Enebish, 2007, p. 135.
According to the Millennium Development Goals
and the National Program on Special Protected
Areas, Mongolia aims to place at least 30% of its
territory under special protection to preserve and
protect the environment. With
.
Fortunately, Mongolia receives support from
international agencies to assist in meeting its
pledge.
On April 1, 2009, Prime Minister S. Bayar issued
Government Resolution No. 86, calling for
geological mapping to be conducted in 25 areas
across the country. The areas include the Eej
Khairkhan Uul National Monument Area, Khuh
Serhiin Nuruu National Conservation Park,
Khasagt Khairkhan Uul National Conservation
Park and Batkhaan Uul Nature Reserve.
According to the Mongolia Law on Special
Protected Areas, plowing, digging or mineral
exploration is strictly prohibited in these areas.
As of early 2008, Mongolia placed only 14% of its
land and 61 areas under state protection.
MNPCMC believes that the decision to
potentially release four areas from special
protection defies the policies set out in policy
documents such as the Millennium Development
Goals of Mongolia, National Security Concept,
harsh climatic
conditions and a fragile ecosystem, Mongolia's
natural environment requires vigilant protection
Government Policy on Ecology, Concept of
Sustainable Development for the 21 Century,
and the National Program on Special Protected
Areas. This kind of policy backsliding
demonstrates the Government of Mongolia's
inconsistency in policy decisions.
The government must take into account that no
country has a clause in their law on special
protected areas to degazette land from special
protected status. Considering this, we require
the government to ensure protected areas
remain under legal protection.
st
5
Government invading strictly protected areas
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Historically, Mongolians protect beautiful
landscapes, and rare animals and plants by
worshipping them and declaring the area a
sacred preserve. Not only Mongolia's oldest
protected area, Bogdkhan Mountain is also the
oldest wildlife refuge and national park in the
world. In the 13 Century, Van Khan of Khereid
first declared the whole mountain as “Khan Uul”
sacred preserve. In 1778, the mountain was
officially placed under protected status. Later, in
1957, the mountain was protected under the
name “Choibalsan”, and again under the name
“Bogd Uul” in 1974. In 1995, the Bogdkhan
Mountain was officially designated a Strictly
Protected Area. Awarded UNESCO Biosphere
Status in 1997, and the mountain offers a portion
of the country's beautiful countryside within
eyesight of the capital city.
Since 2004, more than 160 development permits
granted by successive Ministers of Nature and
th
Sacred Bogdkhan Mountain being sold off bygovernment officials
Environment threaten this sacred mountain,
violating the law on Strictly Protected Areas by
allowing tourist camps, residential apartments
and hotel construction. In particular, one former
Minister of Nature and Environment, G.
Shiilegdamba, issued 8 resolutions from
February 26, 2008 to August 22, 2008,
allocating parts of the sacred Bogdkhan
Mountain to 271 individuals and companies.
The Ministry of Nature, Environment and
Tourism must cease the illegal action of giving
out to influential people the land that it is
supposed to protect. The Coalition calls on the
Ministry to save the first sacred mountain of
Mongolia, Bogdkhan, from attacks by the
powerful and to re-declare it as a sacred
preserve for the benefit of all Mongolians.
6
6Report on investigation on the establishment and usageof Special Protected Areas, Parliament StandingComittee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture.
Thirty-five measures forimplementation related to theenvironment included in the 2008-2012 Government Action Plan
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The State Great Hural (Parliament) of Mongolia
adopted the Action Plan of the Government of
Mongolia for 2008-2012 in November 2008. The
new government's Action Plan integrates input
and priorities from:
National Development Strategy of
Mongolia (which is based on the
Millennium Development Goals);
Election platforms of the Mongolian
People's Revolutionary Party;
Election platforms of the Democratic
Party;
The consensus on select issues
reached between the two parties after
the election; election platforms from
minority parties;
Proposals made by civil society, and
agreements signed with international
organizations.
The primary objectives of the government at a
time when Mongolia faces economic challenges
due to the global financial crisis include securing
SIX LAWS AND RESOLUTIONSAPPROVED BY THE 2008 FALLSESSION OF PARLIAMENT
The Fall 2008 Parliament session began on October 1, 2008 and continued for 77 days until
January 16, 2009. During this period, Parliament held 31 meetings and approved 79 laws and 48
resolutions. Of the 127 laws and resolutions approved during this session, the Mongolian Nature
Protection Civil Movement Coalition (MNPCMC) analyzed the following laws and resolutions
related to nature and the environment:
Law on the Budget of Mongolia for 2009
Amendments to the Law on the Budget of Mongolia for 2008
Amendments to the Law on the Development Fund Budget of Mongolia for 2008
Ratification of Joining the International Convention on Plant Protection
Parliament resolutions onApproving ParliamentActivities for 2008-2012
Main Directions of the Socio-economic Development of Mongolia in 2009
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opportunities for economic growth based on
Mongolia's mineral resources, and broad-based
social development. While focusing on these two
main goals, the government should continue to:
build the capacity required for human
development in Mongolia; substantially improve
living standards; ensure transparency, openness,
fairness, accountability and ethics in public
administration; improve the reputation of state
and government organizations at all levels; and
safeguard national security.
We appreciate and support the government
implementing a mature policy on the tourism
industry, based on preserving an ecological
balance, using natural resources rationally,
conserving the environment, and creating a stable
environment for development. Additionally,
MNPCMC wants to highlight that in the Action
Plan Implementation Methods it states, “…
rational use of minerals and natural resources to
meet the development needs, and use in a way
that would not cause harm to human life and
environment.” The Government Action Plan
considers all social, economic, political,
environmental and rural development issues, and
puts forward nineteen activit ies within
environmental sustainability objectives:
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
1. Implement policies to preserve natural
resources within the natural carrying
capacity of the environment, use resources
rationally and promote eco-friendly clean
technologies in line with related laws and
regulations;
2. Reduce air pollution in Ulaanbaatar and other
cities through restriction of burning raw coal,
expansion of engineering improvements
and new apartments replacing the
areas, widening green belts, and
renovating the public transportation system
by adding natural gas powered vehicles;
3. Reduce air and water pollution, land
degradation in cities and towns, and create
healthy and comfortable living conditions for
citizens;
4. Introduce new waste management in cities
and towns and set up waste recycling
plants;
5. Implement a coordinated state policy on
water, manage the flow of major rivers, and
construct infrastructure needed to transfer
accumulated water reserves into usage;
6. Re-plant indigenous plants in Gobi regions
and sparsely vegetated areas prone to
desertification, increase precipitation,
collect water, set up man-made lakes and
ponds in order to keep ecosystems in
balance, and implement a National Water
Program;
7. Construct wells that use wind and solar power
in each in order to irrigate pastoral land
in the Gobi and sparsely vegetated areas;
8. Reformulate the national program against
desertification and increase foreign and
domestic funding to decrease deser-
tification;
9. Upgrade the legal basis for protection of soil
and adopt and implement the law on soil;
10.Prohibit geological surveys for natural
resources and exploration in areas with
limited reserves of gold deposits, watershed
areas, river basin areas, forests, Gobi oasis
areas, natural scenic areas, and national
parks, and restrict the use of technologies
ger
district
bag
for mining purposes that are harmful to nature
and human health;
11. Avoid profitable projects if there is no
guarantee to restore nature and the
environment;
12.Based on the principles of responsible
mining, create a database on mining and
m o n i t o r i n g , s u r v e y p r o g r a m s ,
environmental protection and restoration
plans, and resource use payments, and
make it transparent and open to public
access;
13. Introduce procedures for decision-making
on granting exploration and exploitation
licenses to be based upon comprehensive
environmental impact assessments made
by professional authorities selected via
certain criteria;
14. Expand local networks of special protected
areas which are crucial in preserving
Mongolia's ecological balance;
15. Create a strong management system for
forest resources and forest restoration, and
encourage initiatives to use imports for
domestic wood products and materials;
16. Improve protection management of flora
and fauna and create favorable conditions
for their natural growth and rehabilitation;
17. Pursue a coordinated pol icy on
environmental protection, land, natural
resources, and rational use on the basis of
a national policy on land and coordinated
land fund planning in Mongolia; create an
independent body replacing the present
land and real estate registry authorities and
improve the methodology on land value
determination;
18. Improve the legal environment for the
tourism industry and increase the number
of tourists visiting Mongolia through the
improvement of related infrastructure;
19. Tighten state control over nature and the
envi ronment and strengthen the
responsibilities and liabilities for keeping
natural resources safe and secure.
We are pleased to introduce the following sixteen objectives related to nature and theenvironment that are included in the objectives for other sectors:
Objectives of othersectors
Activities related to nature and the environment
Within the framework ofimproving the quality ofcitizens’ lives byimplementing appropriatepolicies on population andsocial issues
Within the framework ofachieving economic growthand sustainabledevelopment byimplementingindustrialization policies
Within the framework tostrengthen the rule of lawand make governancetransparent and open
Within the frameworkrelated to national securityand foreign policy
Build the capacity of agencies to undertake emergency measures and grantmedical assistance in cases of environmental pollution, natural and humancaused disasters, epidemic diseases, and contamination.
Create conditions that are conducive to family stability, respect for customs andtraditions, environmental protection, skills development, a safe environment forchildren to grow healthy, as well as raising children to be creative andresponsible persons who are eager to learn and able to control their own fate.
Improve the quality and competitiveness of domestic products and services,improve consumer safety, create ecologically friendly conditions, andsubstantially improve support in terms of standardization and measurement inorder to supply consumers with high-quality and safe products.
Review and develop the mining sector policy based on the principles ofresponsible mining, and improve the sector’s legal environment.
Encourage the application of eco-friendly technology and best practices for themining industry, rehabilitate damaged lands, and receive required amounts forrehabilitation into state budgets.
Take measures to supply residents of ger districts with fuel that generates lesssmoke.
Conduct research on converting coal to gas and natural gas and determine itsapproximate reserves; improve the legal environment for the development of fuelgas in order to widen its usage.
Implement a sea-buckthorn project to plant sea-buckthorn on twenty hectares ofland, and set up a sea-buckthorn processing farm.
Develop the legal environment for agricultural plot land utilization, create aninformation database on land and land resources, take comprehensive measuresto protect and improve the productivity and irrigation of pasture lands, andcombat harmful rodents.
Introduce new technologies to combat soil erosion and degradation, and intensifythe restoration of abandoned lands for farming and agricultural purposes.
Promote and support greenhouse industries for growing fruits and vegetables.
Support operations of companies and enterprises that use internationalstandards and eco-friendly technologies in road paving and repair.
Implement a national program on renewable energy, and study the possibility tobuild large power stations based on modern technology using wind and solarpower, and construct them in the Gobi and eastern aimags.
Introduce GPS technology, launch the second phase of establishing a GPSnetwork, and upgrade the network.
Revise and adopt an urban planning policy, and launch a program “NewUlaanbaatar–Green City”, aimed at capital city renovation, reducing air pollutionand land degradation in the city, resolving complex infrastructure issues, andsetting up green parks in every district for youth, leisure, and entertainment.
Create a legal environment for civic monitoring and implement a policy to ensurecitizens whose rights are violated can file complaints and claims.
Increase participation and engagement of some military services and units in theactivities of ecological disaster prevention, combating desertification, treeplanting, and land restoration.
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Twenty-eight measures forenvironmental protection included inthe Main directions for socio-economicdevelopment of Mongolia
Each year MNPCMC closely scrutinizes the
environmental aspects included or missing in
the “Main Directions of the Socio-economic
Development of Mongolia,” the government's
primary policy document produced annually.
Further, we also inform the public about this
document and monitor its implementation.
Parliament approved the resolution on the “Main
Directions of the Socio-economic Development of
Mongolia for 2009” on November 21, 2008. It
includes 28 activities within two objectives on
environmental protection:
will demand government officials fulfill these
commitments on time. We will also inform you,
the voter, about the implementation of these
objectives at the end of the current session of
Parliament.
Over the next four years, we will regularly
monitor and evaluate the implementation of the
above-mentioned 35 activities related to nature
and environment as included in the
government'sAction Plan for 2008-2012, and
Objective I: Ten activities aimed at improving the legal framework for natural
resource management and improving community and public
engagement in environmental protection.
№ Activities to be implemented within Objective IMeasurement
unit,criteria
2009implementation
level
1. Develop and implement a long-term policy onsustainable use of natural resources, protection andreclamation of surrounding environment, and supportthe policy by introducing environmentally-friendly,advanced technologies, and monitor itsimplementation.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
2.Create a legal environment for the effective use ofnatural resources and strengthen the capacity of itsstrategic management.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
3.Create forest restoration and protection managementby promoting forest management based on theparticipation of professional organizations and thepublic.
% of forest givento communitypartnerships andeconomic entitiesfor management
10.0
4.Improve the quality of forestation and tree nurseries,protect against illegal logging, and increase citizenengagement in preventing forest fires.
Forestationamount (thousandhectares)
12
Seed reserves(kg)
300
Saplings(thousands)
5
Green Wall area(hectares)
500
Forestmanagement(thousandhectares)
19
5. Create a mechanism to clean the forest, and use asfuel degraded forest affected by fire.
- -
6. Establish a council on river basin management andtake the sources of some rivers into specialprotection.
# of river sourcestaken into specialprotection
6
Objective II: Eighteen activities within the objective of reducing air, water and
soil pollution and environmental degradation.
№ Activities to be implemented within Objective IMeasurement
unit,criteria
2009implementation
level
7. Conduct underground water monitoring and create awater quality monitoring network.
# of monitoringnetworksestablished
25
8. Conduct research on water resources of regionalcenters and cities and estimate the amount of waterresources.
# of placesinvestigated
7
9. W ithi n the framework of improving the management ofanimal protection and research, support citizeninitiatives and entities who work on animal protection.
# of activepartnerships
3
10. Improve management to provide broad citizenengagement in biodiversity protection, strengtheningof Strictly Protected Areas, and development of thetourism sector.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
№ Activities to be implemented within objective IIMeasurement
unit,criteria
Levelto be reached
in 2009
1. Implement the “polluter pays” principle, and introduceappropriate methods to finance measures forensuring air quality.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
2. Expand the consolidated network of environmentalmonitoring and analysis, and build capacity ofprofessional laboratory staff.
# of newlyestablished andfurnished centersand laboratories
2
3. Expand the monitoring network, and evaluate thenegative impacts of air pollution on human health.
# of laboratoriesthat monitorsources of airpollution
1
4. Improve the land management system and advancethe legal environment for effective land use.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
5. Develop a consolidated land plan approved byParliament, and sell land by open auction (excludingland for business, residential, and ger district lands inthe capital city and aimag centers).
- -
6. Introduce GPS technology, launch the second phaseof establishment of a GPS network and upgrade thealtitude network.
Improved quality ofmapping
-
7. Increase water resources in the Gobi region wheredesertification is the main environment problem, andintensify tree planting.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
8. Support initiatives to dig wells, establish man-madeoases and other water related initiatives in the Gobiregion that is being heavily affected by desertification.Continue the implementation of the National Waterprogram, and build at least one well in the every bagusing modern advanced technology.
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GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
From this list, MNPCMC emphasizes the
importance of mitigating the negative impacts
of climate change; developing and
implementing a policy and strategy to adapt to
climate change; ceasing the issuance of
mining licenses at placer gold mines with low
reserves, near watersheds, river basins,
forest resource areas, Gobi oases, locations
with unique natural landscapes and within
protected areas; and banning mining
operations employing techniques and
technologies harmful to the environment and
human health. We deem these initiatives to
be crucial, visionary, and innovative.
Despite the vision and seeming commitment to
the protection of Mongolia's nature and
environment, the government has not followed
through with commensurate funding to achieve
these goals. In fact, only two activities were
funded:
MNT 2,177 million to purchase radar
and equipment that artificially modifies
the weather
MNT 200 million for water research and
exploration
This gives rise to doubts about whether these
objectives can be fully implemented within the
planned timeframe.
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№ Activities to be implemented within objective IIMeasurement
unit,criteria
Levelto be reached
in 2009
9. Improve the responsibility to and accountability ofreclaiming mined areas by tightening the monitoringof Environmental Impact Assessments.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
10. Cease the issuance of mining licenses at placer goldmines that have low reserves, near watersheds, riverbasins, forest resource areas, Gobi oasis, locationswith unique natural landscapes and within protectedzones, and completely ban mining operations usingtechniques and technologies harmful to nature,environment, or human health.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
11. Improve the management of production and servicesto reduce garbage, recycle, build special disposalsites in larger cities and towns, and introduce land-filling methods.
# of disposal sites 1
12. Conduct detailed research on soil pollution in citiesand towns, and create a database of results.
Database created -
13. Produce coking coal, and reduce air pollution inUlaanbaatar by encouraging the use of cars andbuses with complete combustion engines.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
14. Improve the management of chemical and hazardoussubstances, and build a hazardous waste disposalsite.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
15. Improve the quality and results of EnvironmentalImpact Assessments, and expand the engagement ofpublic monitoring.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
16. Support investments in water conservation andpurifying technologies.
By theimplementation ofactivities
-
17. Mitigate the harmful impacts of climate change.Develop and implement adaptation strategies andpolicies related to climate change.
By theimplementation ofthe activities
-
18. Organize activities to increase rainfall by artificiallymodifying the weather
Number of mobileteams
2
Land generators 1
Additional MNT 455.5 millionallocated for MNET from theDevelopment Fund budget ofMongolia for 2008
Under the Law on the Development Fund
Budget of Mongolia for 2008, MNET received no
portion of the Development Fund. In a positive
change, according to the amendments to the Law
on the Development Fund Budget of Mongolia for
2008, approved on October 17, 2008, an
additional MNT 385.5 million was allocated for the
construction of environmental offices, Strictly
Protected Areas administration, and water
research.
Selenge and Khentii aimag. On a positive note,
MNT 476.2 million was included in the budget for
Ulaanbaatar City to implement projects and
activities aimed at reducing air pollution in the city.
The government also postponed the allocation
of MNT 1,050 million out of MNT 2,850 million to
build garbage disposal sites in Bayankhongor,
Gobi-Altai, Dornogobi, Omnogobi, Sukhbaatar,
2009 state budget againallocated the smallest amount fornature and environment
Every year we are disappointed to observe the
state budget allocation for the Ministry of Nature,
Environment, and Tourism, and the total amount
of environmental investments fall to the bottom
of the financial priority list for the government.
The Law on State Budget of Mongolia for 2009,
approved on November 27, 2008, allocated only
MNT 21,814.3 million to MNET, the smallest of
all ministry budgets. We are very concerned that
despite income from taxes into the state budget
increasing every year, the budget amount for
nature and environment continues to decrease.
We take vast amounts from Mongolia's nature
and environment but do very little to restore and
protect it. This is an inappropriate level of
allocation, and what is more, it points to an
unsustainable future for Mongolia's already
degrading fragile ecosystems. The total
investment amount to be financed from the 2009
state budget is MNT 241,752.9 million; MNET's
share is just 1.06% or MNT 2,577 million. We
have found that anyone working to protect and
preserve Mongolia's environment finds this
highly disappointing and it does not bode well for
the future of the country.
List of investment projects, activities and equipment to befinanced from the state budget
Environmental investment projects,activities and equipment
2009 budget allocation(million MNT)
Investment 200
Water research and exploration 200
Equipment 2,377
Equipment for environmental offices 200
Radar and equipment for cloud-seeding 2,177
Total 2,577
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Mongolia joins the InternationalPlant Protection Convention
The International Plant Protection Convention is
an international treaty to prevent the spread and
introduction of pests of plants and plant products,
and to promote appropriate measures for their
Additional MNT 4.1 billionallocated for nature andenvironment from the state budgetfor 2008
Under the Law on State Budget of Mongolia for
2008, MNET allocated MNT 22 billion to MNET.
Amendments approved by the Parliament on
October 17, 2008, allocated an additional MNT
3.998 billion to MNET and the total budget
increased to MNT 26 billion. Also, Parliament
approved an additional allocation of MNT 130
million to build a protective fence and information
center at Khamariin Khiid, International Tourist
Camp.
million was allocated for implementing projects
and activities to reduce smog and air pollution.
We hope that this will reduce air pollution in the
city.
MNT 3 Billion was allocated for the budget of the
capital city governor from the Development Fund
budget for 2008 for the purpose of reducing air
pollution in Ulaanbaatar.An additional MNT 60
Budget of the Minister of MNETImplementation
Implementation
period
period
Budgetedcost
(million MNT)
Financingfrom 2008
(million MNT)
Investment 594 385.5
Construction of environmental offices and SPAadministration
2008 194 80
Water research, exploration 2008 400 305.5
Budget of the capital city governorImplementation
periodBudgeted
cost(million MNT)
Financingfrom 2008
(million MNT)
Investment 120 60
Implement projects to reduce air pollution 2007-2008 120 60
MNE budgetBudgeted
cost(million MNT)
Financingfrom 2008
(million MNT)
Investment: 130 130
Building information center at Khamariin Khiid,International Tourist Camp (Dornogobi)
2008 70 70
Building protective fence around Khamariin Khiid,International Tourist Camp (Dornogobi)
2008 60 60
We mentioned previously that the state budget of
2008 included MNT 400 million for water
research and exploration work, but the amount
was later reduced to MNT 94.5 million. The
Development Fund of Mongolia will finance the
difference of MNT 305.5 million needed to
complete the work.
control. The government submitted the Law on
Ratification of the International Plant Protection
Convention, and Parliament approved it on
October 9, 2008. As a result of joining this
convention, Mongolia will now be able to work
together with the international community to
prevent and control the spread of plant pests.
and nervous systems to malfunction. In
Ulaanbaatar, 64.6% of the total vehicles use
petrol, 33.1% use diesel fuel, and only 2.3% use
liquefied gas, which is more environmentally
friendly.
The number of days with concentrations of
nitrogen dioxide (NO ) and sulfuric dioxide (SO )
that exceed Mongolia's air quality standards for
these pollutants continues to increase each year.
The city's main roads and traffic intersections
regularly measure the highest levels of pollution.
Numerous studies show significant correlations
between increased air pollution and acute
respiratory infections, cardiovascular diseases,
arterial hypertension, asthma, bronchitis,
allergies, and pneumonia.
2 2
From 2012, vehicles using fueland diesel fuel will be prohibitedfor public transportation use inthe capital
In recent years, the number of cars has been
steadily increasing and vehicle emissions now
contribute substantially to the already high
levels air pollution in Ulaanbaatar. More than
130,000 vehicles, which discharge over 200
types of toxic pollutants such as carbon dioxide,
nitric acid, carbon, and sulfuric gas cause 6.3%
of the city's air pollution. These pollutants can
cause acute and chronic respiratory illness,
damage to internal organs such as the liver,
kidneys, and lungs, and cause cardiovascular
SPRING 2009 PARLIAMENT SESSION:
THE MOST ENVIRONMENTALLY
FRIENDLY SESSION
The regular 2009 spring session of Parliament began on April 6, 2009 and continued for 75 days until July 21,
2009. During this period, Parliament approved 71 laws and 34 resolutions.
Of the 105 laws and resolutions approved during this session, we analyzed the following laws and regulations
related to nature and the environment:
Law on Banning Use of Some Plastic Bags
Law on Prohibiting Exploration and Mining of Minerals around Water Basins and Forests
Procedures on Implementing the Law on Prohibiting Exploration and Mining of Minerals around
Water Basins and Forests
We also analyzed proposed amendments to the following laws:
Draft Law onAmendments to the Law on Transport
Draft Law onAmendments to the Construction Law
Draft Law onAmendments to the law on Civil ClaimsAgainst GovernmentAgencies and Officials
Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Formulating and Submitting Draft Legislation and
Parliament Resolutions.
In each Parliamentary session held between 2006 and 2008, only three or four laws and resolutions out of
more than 100 approved laws and resolutions advanced environmental causes:
Fall 2006 - 3 out of 102 laws and resolutions
Spring 2007 - 3 out of 105 laws and resolutions
Fall 2007 - 3 out of 127 laws and resolutions
Fall 2008 - 4 out of 127 laws and resolutions
In a trend the Coalition hopes will continue, Parliament approved seven pro-environment laws and
resolutions. This improvement of more than 100% leads MNPCMC to deem the spring 2009 session of
Parliament the most environmentally friendly since fall 2006.
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GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
To address this pressing environmental and
health issue, Members of Parliament G. Batkhuu,
Ts. Tsengel and R. Bud initiated the Draft Law on
Amendments to the Law on Transportation and
submitted it to Parliament. Parliament passed the
Law on May 7, 2009. According to Article 9 of the
law, starting from January 1, 2012, public
transportation in Ulaanbaatar wil l use
environmentally friendly fuels and electric
vehicles. The resulting reduction of toxic
emissions will reduce vehicular contributions to
air pollution. The successful adoption of these
amendments significantly improves citizens'
opportunities to live in a healthy and safe
environment, protected from environmental
pollution as stated in Mongolia's Constitution.
From 2010, cloth and paper bags
replace plastic bags
Mongolia uses approximately 500 kilograms of
plastic bags each month at stores and shopping
centers. Often thrown away, the plastic bags
inevitably end up as waste. Made from non-
renewable and non-biodegradable petro-
chemicals, plastic bags can include several toxins
such as .
Decomposition of plastic bags can take anywhere
from 100 to 400 years, they are unsightly when
lead, cadmium, and mercury
disposed of improperly, and endanger many
forms of wildlife and livestock. When buried or left
on the land, they can block the natural flow of
oxygen and water through soil. When burned,
plastic bags contribute to air pollution and release
toxic compounds dangerous to all living
organisms. During periods of heavy rain or
flooding, plastic bags clog gutters and storm
drains, causing water and sewage to overflow and
creating a breeding ground for bacteria, pest
insects, and germs that can cause infectious
diseases such as cholera, intestinal typhoid,
dysentery, and brucellosis.
Over 90% of the plastic bags used in Mongolia are
imported from China. Usually very thin, and often
produced illegally from recycled waste via
technology prohibited in China, the imported
plastic bags rarely meet the requirements of food
packaging standards. Testing for chemical and
heavy metal content by the Laboratory of
Toxicology showed that 30.5% of ten types of
plastic bags currently used in Ulaanbaatar's
stores and supermarkets failed to meet
requirements. Scientists and researchers warn
that food packaged in these plastic bags can
absorb the toxins used in their production. These
toxins can cause inflammation of the lungs,
stomach, esophagus, and pancreas, and
eventually can even cause cancer.
In an effort to protect human health and safety and
preserve Mongolia's natural environment,
Parliament approved the Law on Banning the Use
of Some Plastic Bags on June 11, 2009. The law
takes effect on January 1, 2010.
According to this law, plastic bags thinner than
0.025 mm cannot be imported into Mongolia for
packaging purposes at stores and shopping
centers.
million hectares. In 1990, forests covered 11% of
the country but today this figure is only 8.56%.
The explosion in the construction sector causes
increasingly significant impacts on forest
resources. Specifically, construction companies
cut large numbers of young trees for use as
scaffolding, supports and beams. This
unsustainable harvesting of young trees carries
deep consequences for the future of our forests.
Members of Parliament G. Batkhuu, L.Gansukh,
and N. Batbayar initiated the Draft Law on Making
Amendments to the Construction Law approved
by Parliament on April 23, 2009. It prohibits the
cutting of young trees for construction purposes.
Members of the Coalition support the passage of
this law prohibiting the harvest of young trees for
construction use, as it will aid forest restoration
and facilitate the continued growth of healthy
forests. This in turn contributes to nature
conservation and preserving Mongolia's
ecological balance.
We appreciate this important step toward
promoting safe and healthy living conditions for
citizens, safeguarding people's health,
protecting the environment, reducing the use of
plastic bags, and encouraging wide usage of
cloth and paper bags. Equally we urge you, the
reader, to take responsibility for reducing your
own use of these unnecessary, unhealthy, litter-
causing plastic bags. Please use cloth and
paper bags and only take the number of bags
you really need. Reuse the bags as often as
possible. We all need to do our part!
Parliament acts to protectyoung trees
Several human activities and
natural events such as climate
change, excessive dryness,
drought, forest fires, outbreaks
of forest insects and diseases,
and inappropriate government
p o l i c i e s , p o o r l a w
enforcement, illegal logging
and forest cutting cause
severe negative impacts on
our country's forests. Over the
past 100 years Mongolia's total
forest area decreased by 4
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Government seeks civil society
input on public policy decisions
Arobust and healthy democracy should develop
and pass laws based on a balance between the
needs, desires and interests of the country's
people, always aiming to improve the quality of
its citizens' lives. Regular, open, and informed
participation of citizens advances these goals.
Working toward this, Mongolia's citizens and
civil society organizations have become more
active in recent years, advocating for
incorporating public opinion and input into
government policies and decisions.
Approximately for ty movements and
associations have been established since the
Parliamentary Elections in 2004. These groups
demand government take appropriate
measures and actions immediately to solve
pressing social issues such as unemployment,
poverty, corruption, crime and environmental
degradation. In 1992, 1,213 citizens sent letters
to MPs calling for these actions. In 2001 the
letters increased to 3,240, and in 2005 to 6,112.
This clearly demonstrates Mongolians' more
active interest in voicing their opinions and being
heard by their elected representatives.
Despite this significant upsurge in citizen
participation, policy-makers still fail to heed the
call of the public for inclusion in the policy
decision-making process. For example,
average Mongolian citizens cannot access most
government documents related to legislation.
Most democracies the world over, especially
with internet technology, provides free, open and
easy access to legislative documents. This
severely negatively impacts the public's ability to
participate in the democratic legislative process.
The former President of Mongolia, N.
Enkhbayar, initiated the Draft Law on
Amendments to the Law on Formulating and
Submitting Draft Legislation and Parliament
Resolutions, and Parliament approved the law
on June 25, 2009.
This law stipulates that initiators of all draft laws
must allow for citizen and NGO participation in
the development and submission of a draft law,
and must also include and incorporate their
comments into Parliament decisions. The law
also creates the legal environment for informing
the public and providing responses to and
explanations about citizen suggestions and
comments on draft laws through press, media
and the Internet.
Enabling people to exercise their rights to
participate in the law-making process will
strengthen and improve relations between
government and citizens. Furthermore, a
participatory approach to public policy formation
improves opportunities for success in
implementation of laws passed by legislators.
We feel this is an important step for the future
development of environmental legislation.
A more responsive government
According to the Law on Solving Civil Claims
against Government Agencies and Officials
approved in 1995, a citizen's complaint must be
addressed within 30 days of filing. Government
agencies trying to avoid addressing complaints
often violate this legal timeframe, transferring
them to lower level officials, and not solving the
issue within the legal timeframe.
According to surveys, 22% of civil complaints on
government agencies and officials are not solved
within the legal timeframe, as 21% of people
spend seven months to one year before their
claim is solved, 17% spend four to six months, and
12% spend more than two years. Also, 35% of
citizens bringing complaints face severe
bureaucracy, and 52% do never see a satisfactory
resolution to their complaint.
Former President N. Enkhbayar also initiated a
draft law on Making Amendments to the Law on
Solving Civil Claims against Government
Agencies and Officials, submitting it to
Parliament, which approved the law on June 25,
2009.
Approval of this law provides people the
opportunity to submit claims and complaints
electronically. Implementation of the law will result
in faster and more efficient service from
government agencies ministries and local
governments. Digitizing the process will enable a
more accurate and transparent record of
communications with government agencies,
thereby making it more difficult for issues and
citizens to be shuffled around without satisfactory
resolution.
Additionally, the law increased the fine levied for
violating this law to MNT 20,000-50,000. A claim
unresolved within the legal time limit without any
legitimate reasons can result in a salary dock for
the relevant civil servant. Other possible
repercussions for government employees
include dismissal or ban from future government
employment.
The Coalition applauds this step toward
increased responsibility of state organizations
and officials. We hope it will result in improved
services with reduced violations, and an overall
decrease in the current cumbersome
bureaucracy, especially regarding environment
related inquiries and complaints.
Mongolia's ecosystem includes fragile water and
forest resources. The water resources in the
country total 608.3 million cubic meters and
forested areas cover only 8.6% of the total
territory. Poorly regulated issuance of mining and
exploration licenses and irresponsible mining
threatens our country's vulnerable ecological
balance and people's right to live in a safe and
healthy environ-ment.
Approximately 80% (16,286.9 hectares) of land
destroyed by mining and exploration activities
remains unreclaimed. Mercury and cyanide,
used to retrieve just a few ounces of gold,
pollutes the air, water, and soil causing severe
damage to nature, the environment, and human
health.
Parliament bans mining around
watersheds and forested areas
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Approximately 331 mining companies deplete
the water resources of rivers, springs, streams
and surface water across Mongolia. Mongolia's
biggest water consumer, the mining industry,
uses 93.8 million cubic meters of water per year,
or 21.6% of total consumption.
Members of Parliament B. Bat-Erdene, G.
Bayarsaikhan, R. Bud, Ts. Davaasuren, Ts.
Munkh-Orgil, D. Odkhuu, Sh. Saikhansambuu,
Ts. Sedvanchig, and D. Enkhbat initiated the
Draft Law on Banning Exploration and Mining of
Minerals Around Water Basins and Forested
Areas, approved by Parliament on July 9, 2009.
According to this law, all mining licenses issued
near watersheds and forested area will be
cancelled and cannot be re-issued. Also,
license holders in those areas must conduct
reclamation within two years under the strict
monitoring of the local government and local
residents. Importantly, environmental NGOs
now have an opportunity to monitor the process
of the reclamation work.
We would like to congratulate the initiators for
their leadership on this law and the Members of
Parliament who voted for it, demonstrating their
commitment to Mongolia's environment and to
preserving the pristine nature and ecological
balance of our country.
Parliament approved the Draft Law on Adhering
to the Law on Prohibiting Exploration and Mining
of Minerals in Water Basins and Forests on July
16, 2009. According to this law, mining licenses
issued around watersheds and forests will be
cancelled within five months of the approval of the
Draft Law on Adhering to the Law on Prohibiting
Exploration and Mining of Minerals in Water
Basins and Forests.
Upon implementation of the new law, all mining
licenses issued around water basins and forested
areas will be cancelled within 2009 and the legally
required reclamation work will start. As NGOs
have a legal right to conduct public monitoring on
reclamation work, the Mongolian Nature
Protection Civil Movement Coalition members
will monitor the implementation of the new law in
their local areas.
Mining licenses issued around
watersheds and forested area will
be cancelled in five months
accessible information, available to the public in thisedition of the GreenStar.
We believe that Parliament is violating the followingclauses in the Constitution through the action ofignoring requests from ordinary citizens:1. The fundamental principles of the activities of the
State shall secure democracy, justice, freedom,equality, national unity and rule of law. (Clause1.2)
2. In Mongolia State power shall be vested in thepeople of Mongolia. The Mongolian people shallexercise it through their direct participation in Stateaffairs as well as through the representative bodiesof the State authority elected by them. (Clause 3.1)
3. The right to take part in the conduct of State affairsdirectly or through representative bodies (Clause16.9), the right to submit a petition or a complaint toState bodies and officials (Clause 16.12), freedomof thought, opinion and expression, speech, press(Clause 16.16), and the right to seek and receiveinformation except that which the State and itsbodies are legally bound to protect as secret.(Clause 16.17)
The Mongolian Nature Protection Civil MovementCoalition will monitor how elected officials are usingthe power entrusted to them by the voting public. TheCoalition will work on behalf of Mongolia's citizens andtake measures to influence government policy anddecision making in order to fulfill citizens' legitimateright to information.
We would like to express our gratitude to Member ofParliament, D. Enkhbat, for taking the time to meet withus and exchange ideas, and being respectful to citizenand voter opinions and requests. We would also like toexpress our appreciation to Members of Parliament Ts.Nyamdorj, E. Bat-Uul, and Ts. Sedvanchig forrequesting the Parliament Secretariat to providethe information, and to Members of ParliamentCh. Ulaan, G. Zandanshatar, and Z. Enkhbold forproviding us with their voting records onenvironmental legislation.
Please contact the General Secretary of theParliament Secretariat, Ts. Sharavdorj, at (51)-264669 or 99113702 and express your opinionsabout his refusal to make MP environmentalvoting records open to the public, and violatingthe Constitutional rights of citizens.
Citizens and voters!
Parliament violates theConstitution, hides Members ofParliament's environmental votes
Dear Citizens and Voters,
We apologize for not being able to provide you withthe Members of Parliament's votes on environmentallegislation for this edition of the GreenStar.
Over the course of four months, starting from July 3,2009, we delivered four official letters to the GeneralSecretary of the Parliament Secretariat, Ts.Sharavdorj, requesting the environmental votes ofMPs. The letters from MNPCMC were dated July 3,2009 (letter #1/6), July 31, 2009 (letters #1/14 and#1/15), and September 24, 2009 (letter #1/23). Wealso submitted a letter to the Head of the StandingCommittee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture,Batj. Batbayar, on July 31, 2009 (letter #1/15),requesting the environmental votes of MPs.Unfortunately, the information requested was notprovided by either.
On October 6, 2009 (letter #1/26), and October 16,2009 (letter #1/27), we resorted to sending letters toall Members of Parliament, directly requesting eachMP's assistance and their environmental votingrecord. Out of all 76 MPs, elected representives ofMongolia's citizens who gave the Parliamentary oathto work for the interests of our country, only threeMembers of Parliament responded to us.
In a last attempt for public access to information, weare now reaching out via this edition of the GreenStarto Preseident Ts. Elbegdorj, who outlined in his actionplan that he would, “be on the side of citizens whensolving problems; express the common interests ofthe public, be a voice of fairness and justice, makeofficials implement laws, and resolve conflicts andproblems efficiently.” He also promised that he would,“live close to the people, increase integrity, andimplement environmentally friendly policies.”
Despite making our requests in a timely mannerthrough the appropriate government channels,following all proper procedures to obtain the neededinformation, and waiting patiently for four months, wehave not received the requested information from thegovernment officials who are supposed to providequick and efficient services to citizens. We are,therefore unable to provide what should be publically
ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATIVESCORECARD OF MEMBERSOF PARLIAMENT
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Z. Altai
P. Altangerel
N. Altankhuyag
R. Amarjargal
D. Arvin
Kh.Badamsuren
Kh.Badelkhan
D. Baldan-Ochir
B. Bat-Erdene
E. Bat-Uul
B. Batbayar
D.K. Batbayar
N. Batbayar
Ts. Batbayar
Sun.Batbold
Sukh.Batbold
J. Batsuuri
Ya. Batsuuri
Kh. Battulga
G. Batkhuu
S. Bayar
Ts. Bayarsaikhan
G. Bayarsaikhan
S. Bayartsogt
L. Bold
R. Bud
S. Byambatsogt
N. Ganbyamba
L. Gansukh
L. Gantumur
D. Gankhuyag
R. Gonchigdorj
L. Gundalai
Ts. Davaasuren
D. Damba-Ochir
Ts. Dashdorj
D. Dondog
Law on theBudget ofMongolia for2009
Laws and regulations approved at the Fall 2008 session
Amendments to theLaw on the Budget ofMongolia for 2008
Amendments to the Law onthe Development FundBudget of Mongolia for 2008
Ratification of Joining theInternational Conventionon Plant Protection
Parliament resolutions onApproving ParliamentActivities for 2008-2012
Main Directions of theSocio-economicDevelopment ofMongolia in 2009
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Law on BanningUse of SomePlastic Bags
Laws and regulations approved at the Spring 2009 session
Law on Prohibiting Explorationand Mining of Minerals aroundWater Basins and Forests
Procedures on Implementing theLaw on Prohibiting Exploration andMining of Minerals around WaterBasins and Forests
Draft Law onAmendments tothe Law onTransport
Draft Law onAmendments tothe ConstructionLaw
Draft Law on Amendments tothe law on Civil Claims AgainstGovernment Agencies andOfficials
Draft Law on Amendments tothe Law on Formulating andSubmitting Draft Legislation andParliament Resolutions.
Score/persentage/
Laws and regulations approved at the Fall 2008 session
Amendments to the Law onthe Development FundBudget of Mongolia for 2008
Ratification of Joining theInternational Conventionon Plant Protection
Parliament resolutions onApproving ParliamentActivities for 2008-2012
Main Directions of theSocio-economicDevelopment ofMongolia in 2009
D. Demberel
Kh. Jekei
D. Zagdjav
G. Zandanshatar
D. Zorigt
S. Lambaa
D. Lundeejantsan
Ts. Munkh-Orgil
E. Munkh-Ochir
Kh. Narankhuu
Ts. Nyamdorj
D. Odkhuu
D. Odbayar
D. Ochirbat
S. Oyun
D. Oyunkhorol
R. Rash
Ch. Saikhanbileg
Sh.Saikhansambuu
Ts. Sedvanchig
J. Sukhbaatar
A. Tleikhan
D. Terbishdagva
Kh. Temuujin
Ch. Ulaan
D.Khayankhyarvaa
Ch. Khurelbaatar
Ts. Tsengel
B. Choijilsuren
O. Chuluunbat
Ts. Shinebayar
D. Enkhbat
J. Enkhbayar
Z. Enkhbold
M. Enkhbold
N. Enkhbold
U. Enkhtuvshin
Ts.Elbegdorj
Law on theBudget ofMongolia for2009
Amendments to theLaw on the Budget ofMongolia for 2008
36
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Law on BanningUse of SomePlastic Bags
Laws and regulations approved at the Spring 2009 session
Law on Prohibiting Explorationand Mining of Minerals aroundWater Basins and Forests
Procedures on Implementing theLaw on Prohibiting Exploration andMining of Minerals around WaterBasins and Forests
Draft Law onAmendments tothe Law onTransport
Draft Law onAmendments tothe ConstructionLaw
Draft Law on Amendments tothe law on Civil Claims AgainstGovernment Agencies andOfficials
Draft Law on Amendments tothe Law on Formulating andSubmitting Draft Legislation andParliament Resolutions.
Score/persentage/
9“The true test of civilization is, not the
census, nor the size of the cities, nor
the crops, but the kind of man that the
country turns out.” - Ralph Waldo
Emerson
There is a saying in Mongolian, “
.” The inspiration for this saying comes
Gold has black
traces
TIPS FOR CITIZEN ENGAGEMENTIN THE EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY:7 DOS AND 7 DON'TS
from the deadly sin and curse in an empty chest
left without gold, and the bad luck associated
with gold. Unfortunately, atoning for the “black
traces of gold” falls to local people, rather than
those who mine the gold. Local residents living
around mine sites should benefit from the
extractive industry. In reality, all too often, they
end up the victims of mining operations.
7 Pitfalls 7 Possibilities
No #1: Avoid Resource Curse7
Yes #1: Use mineral resource extraction as amechanism to improve quality of life anddevelopment for all Mongolians
No #2: Avoid Dutch Disease8
Yes #2: Sustainable development that solveseconomic, social and environmental issuesconcurrently
9
No #3: Eradicate corruption10
Yes #3: Develop responsible mining11
No #4: Prevent loss of mineral wealthwithout enriching Mongolia’s people.
Yes #4: Strengthen democracy
No #5: Zero tolerance of inequality Yes #5: Equal and fair distribution of benefitsfrom the extractive industries
No #6: Demand an open, transparent,ethical government
Yes #6: Develop an open, transparent, andresponsible government
No #7: Proper implementation of the lawsof Mongolia
Yes #7: Strong enforcement of the laws ofMongolia
7
8
9
10
11
Many resource-rich countries are less developed and less stable than their resource-poor counterparts. Researchers define this as theresource curse, or the paradox of plenty. This occurs due to mismanagement of resources; irresponsible and uncontrolled extractiveactivities conducted with only taking into account the interests of powerful people.
During the 1970s, oil was discovered in the North Sea near Holland, and afterwards, production in the country declined significantly. Sincethen, domestic production in resource rich countries, which was normal before extraction began, started to decline. This is called Dutchdisease. The theory is that an increase in revenues from natural resources will destabilize a nation's economy by raising the exchange rate,which makes the manufacturing sector less competitive and causes public services to become entangled with business interests. Naturalresource discovery can also lead to developments that result in a large inflow of foreign currency, including a sharp surge in naturalresource prices, foreign assistance, and foreign direct investment.As a result, the natural resource sector starts to play the dominant role inthe country's economy and results in a decline in traditional export sectors.
Sustainable development is a pattern of resource use that aims to meet human needs while preserving the environment so that these needscan be met not only in the present, but also for future generations.
Income from the extractive industry tends to increase corruption, and creates more corruption than in the agricultural sector.
Responsible Mining is a comprehensive and transparent minerals activity, respecting the rights of all stakeholders, especially of localpeople, environmentally friendly and free of human health impacts, embracing the best international practices and upholding rule of lawwhilst generating a sustainable stream of benefits for Mongolia.
Product ive engagement begins wi th
understanding and knowledge. Ensure your
own productive engagement in the extractive
industry by taking the time and making the effort
to thoroughly understand the extractive industry
and how the industry impacts critical issues in
your community. Share your knowledge with
other members of the community so everyone
can engage equitably and from an informed
place. Some facts to get you started:
Mineral resources differ from other
resources. They cannot be replaced or
manufactured, only extracted. So,
inherently, mining is not a form of
sustainable development. As such,
mineral rich countries need to spend the
revenues from mining wisely to develop
human capital and other sectors for long-
term economic health.
Traditionally, mining has never required
the level of human labor commensurate
with the capital invested in a mine
operat ion. With cut t ing edge
technologies, the need for manual labor
is even less than in times past.
Mongolians need to learn the technical
and vocations skills necessary to fill
every possible position at a Mongolian
mine site.
Extremely rich multi-national mining
corporations with great knowledge,
information, experience and power sit
face-to-face with the Government of
Mongolia and negotiate investment
agreements. Mongolians need to better
understand the aspects of these
agreements to safeguard that they are
negotiated fairly and benefit all
Mongolians equitably now and for
generations to come.
1.
2.
3.
39
4.
5.
6.
7.
Global commodity prices make income
from natural resources unstable. It is
important to remember that commodity
prices change over time, so that taxes
and revenues from mining companies
vary and fluctuate. This can have
significant impacts on the government's
budget.
Mongolia is exchanging its mineral
wealth for revenues. The mineral
wealth cannot be replaced, so we must
demand that the government invest the
revenues wisely so that current and
future generations of Mongolians
benefit from the country's resource
wealth.
Be wary of politicians who make
election promises to distribute natural
resources and revenue shares as
“Treasure Share”, or “Motherland Gift”.
Don't allow Mongolia's wealth to be a
political tool.
Mongolia must use the wealth from her
mineral resources wisely or we will end
up a statistic like other countries;
accord ing to surveys , human
development indicators such as infant
mortality, average life expectancy and
children's education worsen if the
country is dependent on natural
resource exports.
IN THE PAST, RESOURCE
RICH COUNTRIES WERE RICH,
BUT NOW COUNTRIES WITH
AN ACTIVE CITIZENRY
ARE RICH
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
An informed and engaged citizenry is vital to
make the activities of the extractive industry
open, transparent, efficient, and responsible. It is
equally important for you to know you have both
the right and the responsibility to engage in
decisions and oversight related to the extractive
10
4 STEPS TO ENGAGE IN THE EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY:
Step 1: LearnStep 2: MonitorStep 3: Influence
Step 4: Hold Accountable
about the extractive industrythe activities of the extractive industry
the extractive industry to make it open and
transparentthose who mine irresponsibly those
who allow irresponsible mining
and
4 STEPS FOR CITIZEN
ENGAGEMENT IN THE
EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY
Ask not what your country can do for you;ask what you can do for your country.
-John F. Kennedy
industries. Work with your community to identify
the urgent issues based on factual information,
experience and increased understanding of the
mining industry, then develop a strategy and a
course of action to address the issues. Work
together! United we stand, divided we fall.
After reading the Mongolian Nature and Environment Legislative Scorecard, you,the voter, can contact your Member of Parliament at the following phone numbersand e-mail addresses, and offer your ideas. The Members of Parliament shouldknow that we will continue to monitor how they are working to protect theenvironment by producing this scorecard and report every year.
GREEN STAR: MONGOLIAN NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD
Address:# , Bars Impex bldg207 ,Chingeltei district Yalalt Square,P.O.B-583, Ulaanbaatar-38Tel 976-E-mail
,
: 99199710: [email protected]