Oyu Tolgoi LLC recently hosted an international scientific conference on combating desertification in Dalanzadgad, Umnugobi aimag, on October 3, 2025. The event is part of the “100 Million Trees for the Future” program, and it brought together global experts to discuss sustainable solutions. Importantly, combating desertification was the central focus, supporting Mongolia’s preparations for the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in 2026.
Moreover, more than 200 representatives attended, including participants from Mongolia, Australia, China, Japan, and France. They explored various methods to address desertification, land degradation, water resource management, and climate change adaptation. In addition, the conference featured 27 presentations. These included domestic and international research on desertification, water engineering, satellite and AI monitoring, sustainable pasture management, and climate risk reduction technologies.
Furthermore, delegates joined sessions titled “Unlocking Opportunities” and “Achieving Land Degradation Neutrality.” These meetings promoted international cooperation and actionable solutions. In addition, over 40 presentations and exhibitions were displayed. Consequently, they encouraged knowledge exchange and strengthened partnerships among researchers and organizations.
Oyu Tolgoi LLC also emphasized the conference’s role as a long-term platform for combating desertification. It aligns with the company’s “100 Million Trees for the Future” initiative. Therefore, the goal is to maintain ongoing collaboration between professional organizations and research institutions. This ensures practical solutions are validated and shared effectively.
Key figures included Minister of Environment and Climate Change Batbaatar Bat, Members of Parliament Seddorj Renchinbyamba and Munkhbayasgalan Luvsanbyambaa, Governor of Umnugobi Enkhbat Nasanbuyan, and Oyu Tolgoi’s General Manager Philip Abraham. They highlighted the importance of global cooperation in combating desertification. Furthermore, they stressed the need for sustainable land use strategies.
Additionally, the conference reinforced Mongolia’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges while supporting international collaboration. Officials noted that research and partnerships from the event would inform strategies for COP17. Moving forward, plans include expanding research collaborations, sharing best practices, and applying innovative technologies to combat desertification effectively.
Overall, combating desertification remains a critical global challenge. Therefore, the Mongolian conference showcased actionable strategies, international expertise, and cooperative efforts to secure a sustainable future.
