Mongolia expands heavy metal monitoring across the country, significantly enhancing environmental safety. The Central Laboratory of Environment and Metrology under the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring (NAMEM) can now detect more than 70 types of heavy metals. Previously, the lab analyzed only eight metals specified under national standards.
The new capability covers over 100 monitoring sites in Ulaanbaatar and approximately 300 locations across aimag centers. This expansion ensures broader oversight of air, water, and soil quality nationwide. Advanced equipment, including an ICP-OES spectrometer and microwave digesters, was installed and calibrated recently.
Training for regional laboratory specialists was conducted from October 21 to 24, 2025, in Darkhan-Uul aimag. Officials emphasized that these efforts strengthen Mongolia’s environmental protection infrastructure. The state-funded investment aligns with the Law on Soil Protection and Desertification Prevention and the “Vision 2050” long-term development policy. It also supports the 2021–2025 National Development Plan and the Government Action Program for 2024–2028.
The advanced analytical equipment allows authorities to prevent, reduce, and control environmental pollution more effectively. It also ensures that citizens live in healthier and safer conditions. Previously, limited analytical capacity prevented comprehensive assessment of soil, air, and water contamination.
Environmental experts note that heavy metal monitoring is critical in urban centers like Ulaanbaatar, where industrial activity and urbanization increase pollution risks. “Expanding monitoring nationwide will allow faster identification of pollution hotspots and timely intervention,” said a NAMEM official.
This enhanced heavy metal monitoring supports evidence-based policy decisions and strengthens regulatory compliance across industries. Authorities expect improved coordination with local governments and faster reporting of contamination levels.
In the coming years, Mongolia plans to integrate real-time data from regional laboratories into a centralized monitoring network. This system will improve environmental planning and public health protection while meeting international standards.
The initiative underscores Mongolia’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection, reinforcing its long-term strategy for cleaner air, water, and soil.
Heavy metal monitoring, heavy metal monitoring, and heavy metal monitoring now form the backbone of Mongolia’s nationwide environmental protection framework.
