page_title: Environmental issues in Mongolia
section_title: Indoor air pollution
hierarchical_section_title: Environmental issues in Mongolia / Pollution / Air pollution / Indoor air pollution
caption_attribution_description: English: Two Mongolian Gers
context_page_description: There are many pressing environmental issues in Mongolia that are detrimental to both human and biophysical wellness. These problems have arisen in part due to natural factors, but increasingly because of human actions. One of these issues is climate change, which will be responsible for an increase in desertification, natural disasters, and land degradation. Another is deforestation, which is expanding due to human recklessness, pests, disease, and fire. Mongolian lands are becoming more arid through desertification, a process that is being exacerbated due to irresponsible land use. Additionally, more and more species are disappearing and at risk for extinction. And, especially in population centers, Mongolians deal with air and water pollution caused by industrialization.
context_section_description: Indoor air pollution is a problem in Mongolia, due to the burning of coal and biomass as fuels within homes, and improper ventilation. Because of Mongolia's very cold winters (that have temperatures averaging below 0 from November to March) and often cold nights, Mongolians need a lot of energy for heating in addition to the energy needed for cooking. In the gers (traditional Mongolian dwellings), coal is the most used form of fuel, and the burning of coal and other biomass (such as wood, crop residue etc.) in simple stoves causes the air within the living spaces to have elevated levels of carbon monoxide and particulate matter.
caption: Mongolian gers, such as those pictured here, experience indoor air pollution.
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