Mongolia to Host COP17 Conference to Combat Desertification in 2026

Mongolia will host the UNCCD’s COP17 in Ulan Bator in 2026 to address desertification. Ambassador Jargalsaikhan Ensaikhan highlighted Mongolia’s challenges with desertification, affecting over 70% of its land. The country is initiating a campaign to plant one billion trees by 2030 to combat the issue, emphasizing the need for research and international collaboration.

Mongolia has officially signed an agreement with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) to host COP17 in Ulan Bator in 2026. The COP refers to the 17th session of the Conference of Parties addressing desertification issues, with 194 participating nations.

Ambassador Jargalsaikhan Ensaikhan of Mongolia spoke in Washington about the conference preparations. The Gobi desert, a large cold arid region, is expanding, leading to increasing sand mobility according to the ambassador.

Mongolia, comprising extensive grasslands across Central Asia, faces significant challenges related to desertification. UNCCD reports indicate that 60% of the region’s land is utilized for grazing, with one-third of the population reliant on it for their livelihoods.

Ambassador Ensaikhan stated that more than 100 nations are currently dealing with desertification, notably in the Global South. In Mongolia, over 70% of land is at risk from advancing sands, wind erosion, and drought conditions, which adversely impact food security and livelihoods.

In response, Mongolia is implementing a national reforestation initiative known as “One Billion Trees,” aiming to plant one billion trees by 2030, engaging every citizen in this effort. Reforestation aids in combating desertification by stabilizing the soil and conserving water.

Ambassador Ensaikhan emphasized the need for targeted research in tree planting, as not all tree species are suitable for Mongolia’s environment. The upcoming COP17 meeting aims to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaborative research to improve reforestation practices.

Ensaikhan has previously served as Mongolia’s ambassador to various nations and leads Blue Banner, an NGO focused on promoting nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament efforts.

The upcoming COP17 conference in Mongolia represents a crucial step in the global fight against desertification. With significant portions of the land under threat, the country’s reforestation campaign aims to address these challenges effectively. By facilitating international cooperation and research, Mongolia seeks to share best practices that will enhance global efforts to combat this pressing issue.

Original Source: www.upi.com