The working group responsible for organizing the general oversight hearing on air pollution has decided to host a series of discussions. As part of this initiative, the fourth discussion titled "Smoke Issue: Technological Solutions for Stoves and Fuels" was held on January 31 at the State Palace.

The discussion was chaired by J.Zoljargal, a member of the parliament (MP) and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy. In his opening remarks, he noted that the working group, established by the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the Parliament, is holding the discussion in accordance with Article 29.2.4 of the Law on Parliamentary Oversight. The event focused on technological solutions for stoves and fuels as part of the broader general oversight hearing on air pollution and smog. The discussion was attended by MPs, including R.Batbold, G.Ganbaatar, J.Zoljargal, B.Munkhsoyol, O.Saranchuluun, J.Chinburen, B.Uyanga, and 53 participants, including citizens and business representatives.

The discussion was opened by the head of the working group, J.Chinburen. In his address, he highlighted the success of the previous three discussions, emphasizing their importance in engaging citizens and non-governmental organizations with senior officials from state agencies and ministries. These discussions aimed to address concerns, answer questions, and provide clear information. He also mentioned that the working group placed significant importance on listening to citizens’ opinions and finding practical solutions. The ideas and suggestions shared by participants during the discussion will be documented and forwarded to the general oversight hearing on Air Pollution and Emissions, as well as the Scientific Council of the National Committee for Environmental Pollution Reduction. J.Chinburen assured that if any of the suggestions are deemed viable and effective, they would be passed on to the working group for further action. Following the general oversight hearing, the parliament will issue a resolution to the government on feasible and research-backed issues, with participants being able to submit written opinions.

The discussion continued with 27 individuals, representing businesses and organizations, presenting stove and fuel technology solutions. Participants explored whether Mongolia has a specialized policy or legal framework in place to reduce emissions while the world shifts to new gas fuels, as well as whether the infrastructure is prepared for such a transition. Presentations also covered renewable energy solutions, such as converting solar heat into both heat and electricity, green energy transitions, developing distributed sources for electricity and heat supply, and the processing of clean coal. Furthermore, participants introduced technological solutions for insulating windows, floors, and walls of homes using improved solid fuels and nanotechnology, aiming to reduce air pollution and ensure no adverse health impacts.

For example, Mongolian consulting engineer D.Altai emphasized that gas fuel technology is critical to addressing air pollution. He noted that research suggests Mongolia is likely to use three types of gas fuels: coal-derived gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and natural or methane gas. While the LPG sector has had success globally, its market is limited due to pricing and import factors. Natural gas production initiatives are emerging, but Russia remains the only country from which Mongolia can import this gas, and its infrastructure and economic efficiency remain concerns. Exploration of methane gas from coal deposits is ongoing, though it will take five years before reserves can be extracted and used. Alta stressed the importance of preparing consumers for this transition and building the necessary infrastructure.

In a presentation on briquettes that are safe for human health and the environment, J.Batbold, a consulting engineer from “Ecobriquette” LLC, discussed their company’s four types of briquettes: semi-coke-soot mixture biofuel, coal, coal-soot mixture, and single sawdust. He assured that these briquettes do not emit fumes or pose health risks and are recommended as a short-term solution to reduce emissions. External studies have confirmed that these bio-briquettes meet international standards.

Moreover, Mongolian consulting engineer Ts.Beejin proposed establishing a "Partial Heat Supply for Residential Districts" center for heat production, testing, and innovation in the ger district. He explained that proper testing of new products and technologies in laboratory settings is critical before they are introduced to the market. He recommended that a unified testing center be created for better results.

Some participants suggested that the simplest way to reduce smoke would be to start by insulating homes and buildings and presented their ideas for improving building insulation.

External researcher G.Tsovoodavaa, Head of the Department of Architecture at the University of Science and Technology, noted that focusing solely on stoves and fuels may be too narrow. He advocated for prioritizing building insulation, given the extensive research in this area, which could lead to greater energy savings and improved efficiency in existing buildings.

Parliament member B.Uyanga emphasized the importance of integrating the presented technological solutions and delivering them to relevant state organizations and officials. Meanwhile, parliament member O.Saranchuluun suggested that classifying the solutions by household consumption, production levels, consumer safety, cost, and suitability for human physical abilities would increase their influence on decision-making.

In closing, J.Zoljargal, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy, expressed that the discussion had focused on practical, innovative solutions. He pointed out that while the Mongolian government must address urgent issues, it should not test unproven technologies on the public. He called for the development and introduction of new ideas and solutions that are low-risk or proven safe. He also stated that the working group would work in a practical way to support these new ideas and technological solutions.