The Dryland Sustainable Landscapes Impact Program (DSL-IP) is making significant progress across global dryland regions. Funded by a major global environmental initiative, this program currently operates in 11 countries. It aims to protect and restore fragile ecosystems in drylands through innovative projects and partnerships.
In eastern Mongolia, the program supports the “Dryland Sustainable Landscapes and Biodiversity Conservation in Eastern Mongolia” project, also known as the Eastern Steppe Project. This initiative began in 2021 and will continue until 2026. It focuses on nine soums across the Khentii, Dornod, and Sukhbaatar aimags.
The project area features relatively untouched steppe landscapes, which serve as habitats for important migratory species like the Mongolian white gazelle and the blue crane.The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change leads this effort. It works closely with international partners to ensure that the project integrates local needs with global conservation goals.
Moreover, the Eastern Steppe Project has drawn attention from both domestic and international experts. Over 50 representatives recently visited Mongolia to observe progress firsthand. Visitors included officials from various conservation and environmental organizations, as well as representatives from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture and local NGOs from the Kyrgyz Republic. This exchange of ideas helps strengthen regional cooperation on sustainable dryland management.
Looking ahead, these collaborative efforts will play a key role in the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists in 2026. They will also shape discussions at a major upcoming United Nations conference focused on combating desertification. These milestones highlight the growing importance of dryland sustainable landscapes for global environmental security.
Furthermore, Mongolia and Kazakhstan have a history of working together on dryland issues. Last year, they organized a joint event in Almaty focused on sustainable rangeland management. This continued exchange reinforces best practices and shared learning across Central Asia.
Overall, the Dryland Sustainable Landscapes Impact Program is driving positive change. It promotes biodiversity conservation, supports local communities, and fosters regional cooperation. As the program moves forward, it sets a strong example for dryland conservation worldwide.
