The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia and with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), has launched the “Green and Inclusive Cities in Mongolia” project to advance climate-resilient, low-carbon, and nature-positive urban development in Ulaanbaatar, Darkhan, and Erdenet.

The five-year initiative will support the targeted cities to embed climate action, biodiversity conservation, and social inclusion into urban development plans, spatial and land-use planning, and municipal budgeting processes. Reforms will focus on strengthening urban governance, enhancing municipal financial management, and expanding access to innovative financing instruments, such as blended finance, public-private partnerships, and green municipal bonds.

“The Government of Mongolia is committed to steering urban development toward a greener, more inclusive, and climate-resilient pathway,” said the H.E. Mr. Sandag-Ochir Tsend, Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia. “In line with this commitment, the draft Law on Climate change will be submitted for discussion at the Government meeting tomorrow. At the same time, the launch of the “Green and Inclusive Cities in Mongolia” project is expected to make a significant contribution to ensuring the implementation of the Law on Climate Change once it is adopted. The project aims to integrate climate change and biodiversity considerations into urban planning and investment while strengthening coordination at the national and local levels. This approach is fully aligned with Mongolia’s priority policies on climate change mitigation and adaptation.”

The project is part of the GEF-8 Global Sustainable Cities Integrated Program, implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change with UNDP providing technical support. The project will support low‑carbon heating, clean transportation, flood protection, and large‑scale ecological restoration of nearly 40,000 hectares of degraded land. Through innovation, digital solutions, and active public engagement, the initiative fosters inclusive, gender‑responsive growth and long‑term urban resilience.

Ms. Matilda Dimovska, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia, emphasized that “At its core, this project is about transforming how cities plan, finance, and deliver development. By combining policy reform, innovative financing, and targeted investments, it supports cities to become more resilient, livable, and inclusive while contributing to global climate and biodiversity goals.”

By embedding sustainability within core urban governance and investment systems, the project will generate transferable models and practical knowledge for cold-climate, rapidly urbanizing countries.

About GEF

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is the world’s largest multilateral fund for the environment. Its family of funds work together to address the planet's most pressing challenges in an integrated way. Its financing helps developing countries address complex challenges and work towards meeting international environmental goals.

About UNDP

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization working to end poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience to crises and shocks. Operating in more than 170 countries and territories, UNDP partners with governments, civil society, and the private sector to help countries develop integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.

Published Date:2026-04-29