As Summer Fades, Mongolia Braces for Winter Air Pollution – Inspections Trigger Public Shift Toward Rural Living

air pollution

While Mongolia currently enjoys the clear skies and fresh air of summer, winter is fast approaching and with it, the return of dangerous levels of urban air pollution. In anticipation, both government agencies and citizens are taking action. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has ramped up inspections in polluted zones, while more residents are choosing to escape the city for healthier, quieter lives in the countryside.

Government Cracks Down on Urban Pollution Sources

During the first half of 2025, the Ministry conducted a series of preventive and unannounced inspections of air pollution sources as part of a broader national campaign to improve air quality.

Under the directive of the State Chief Environmental Inspector, authorities inspected 248 boilers across 139 facilities located in designated air quality improvement zones. Violations were widespread and included:

• Lack of proper filtration systems on smokestacks

• Improper installation of smoke and ash collectors, and

• Failure to conduct emission testing on flue gases.

As a result, 50 legal entities are now undergoing formal violation proceedings for failing to comply with environmental regulations.

In a more comprehensive round of inspections, officials also examined 482 steam and hot water boilers across 333 facilities, uncovering a total of 438 violations. The Ministry responded with:

• 51 official warnings

• 38 additional violation proceedings, and

• Mandatory corrective orders to address environmental damage.

The Ministry confirmed that it will continue rigorous enforcement and follow-up inspections to ensure sustained compliance and long-term air quality improvements.

As Pollution Worsens, City Residents Look to Rural Life

These government findings have amplified public concern, especially in Ulaanbaatar — where winter smog poses serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. In recent years, this has led to a notable increase in people relocating to the countryside — temporarily or even permanently.

Why People Are Moving Out of the City:

• Air Quality Concerns: Rural areas offer cleaner air and fewer environmental hazards, making them more attractive during the high-pollution winter months.

• Mental and Physical Health: Nature, space, and quiet help reduce stress, anxiety, and illness.

• Remote Work Flexibility: The rise of remote work post-pandemic means more people can live outside major cities without giving up their jobs.

• Affordable Housing: Countryside homes typically offer more space at a lower cost, ideal for families seeking a better quality of life.

The Mongolian Context:

In Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar continues to experience some of the world’s highest winter air pollution levels, prompting residents to explore short-term countryside stays, eco-tourism escapes, and even purchasing second homes. Wealthier families, in particular, are turning to rural retreats as an investment in health and well-being.

But Moving Isn’t Easy for Everyone

Despite the clear benefits, full relocation to rural areas remains challenging for many Mongolians due to:

• Limited infrastructure, such as schools, healthcare services, and internet connectivity

• Fewer job opportunities in non-urban areas

• Family or economic ties that keep individuals anchored to city life

A Holistic Solution Needed

While the Ministry’s proactive enforcement is a strong step forward, experts agree that a long-term solution must include broader investment in clean energy, infrastructure, and rural development. Supporting those who wish to relocate — while improving urban air quality — is crucial for balancing population health and environmental sustainability.

Mongolia stands at a turning point. As government agencies step up to tackle pollution, many citizens are taking personal action — by seeking out greener, quieter lives beyond the city. Whether through stricter regulations or new ways of living, the message is clear: clean air is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity.