What is the value of Mongola's Forests? Over ten times the country's GDP

An ecological and economic evaluation approved by the Mongolian Minister of Environment and Tourism valued the total forest stock of Mongolia  at USD 253 billion, over ten times the country's GDP, according to studies conducted under the Mongolia–European Union Forest Partnership. 

This evaluation is based on an ecological and economic assessment that accounts for forest area, species composition, timber volume, and the estimated ecosystem services provided by forest resources.

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Unfortunately, due to poor management, more than 70 percent of Mongolia’s total forest stock has aged or degraded, leading to a continued decline in ecological and economic value. The main causes being attacks by pests, that tripled between 2020 and 2023.

In a country which traditionally  nature was not to be touched, a shifting in thinking is occurring. By harvesting trees at the appropriate time and supplying timber to the wood and wood-products market, forests can be improved and rejuvenated, while the construction, manufacturing, tourism, health, and food sectors can all benefit. Rejuvenated forests also produce more fruits, nuts, and other non-timber forest products – another area of economic returns.

Read the whole article by By Bolortuya Chuluunbaatar

Photo by Byamba-Ochir Byamba-Suren