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Mongolia’s Reliance on Coal Continues to Grow www.energyportal.eu
In Mongolia, the demand for coal is on the rise despite global efforts to reduce reliance on this highly polluting fossil fuel. Mongolia produced 32.3 million metric tonnes of coal in 2021, a 22% increase from the previous year, reaching pre-COVID-19 levels. Coal is not only used for more than 90% of Mongolia’s electricity but also accounts for 30% of its exports.
Government officials in Mongolia have expressed the need to export as much coal as possible to take advantage of this opportunity, and even the country’s environment minister admits that coal will be necessary for the next five to ten years. The natural gas price increase due to the Ukraine-Russia war has led countries like Germany to revert to using coal, further justifying Mongolia’s dependency on it.
Mongolia, with its vast coal reserves of 33.27 billion metric tons, is dubbed “Mine-Golia” as it is poised to meet the growing demand for coal. The country holds more than 2,700 valid mining licenses, covering 5% of its landmass. Plans include establishing more border checkpoints and transportation links with China, its primary coal export destination, to facilitate increased exports.
Despite the economic benefits, coal mining poses significant environmental concerns. Experts point out that mining contributes to water, soil, and air pollution and degradation, affecting herders and their livelihood in the semi-arid grasslands of Mongolia. A recent study found higher rates of soil erosion near mining areas, highlighting the environmental impact.
The reliance on coal has its human costs as well. Independent truckers like Barkhas Buyandavaa, who transports coal on contract, endure difficult working conditions. They drive on unpaved desert roads, often facing breakdowns in remote locations. However, the economic necessity of the job keeps them tied to this hazardous profession.
While the world is moving away from coal, Mongolia remains heavily dependent on it. Efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources are crucial for the country’s sustainable development and to mitigate the environmental and health impacts associated with coal mining and consumption.
Published Date:2023-08-14
