Publications of the MonAme Center

Jacob Stern and Ram Sachs, Mongolian-American Scientific Research Center, Stanford University;  August 2009

Measure Seven Times Before You Cut: Current Topics in Mongolian Mining Development

Mongolian mining is entering a period of flux. The Parliament of Mongolia is currently looking to complete agreements and contracts on two new world-class mines: Oyu Tolgoi, a copper deposit, and Tavan Tolgoi, a coal deposit. In this paper, we endeavor to elucidate the past, present and future of Mongolian mining with respect to the potential Tavan Tolgoi agreement. We examine the Boroo Gold agreement of 1998 and the Oyu Tolgoi negotiations as precedent. We then discuss different approaches the Mongolian government can take with respect to equity and taxation when negotiating with potential investors for Tavan Tolgoi. Following this, we consider the different investors who are looking to develop Tavan Tolgoi. Finally, we provide suggestions on how the Mongolian government might spend its mining revenue in a productive manner.

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Kim Thai,  Mongolian-American Scientific Research Center, Stanford University;  August 2009

Assessment of human health problems caused by the affects of human activity on the quality and quantity of Mongolia’s water resources 

         In recent years, there has been a growing concern for Mongolia’s water resources.  To date, records have shown a decrease in water supply and water quality.  The problems of water quality and quantity are coupled with human activities, such as deforestation, livestock and agriculture, mining, and urbanization.  These sectors have put stress on the environment, especially on the water resources, because of the demand and the impact these activities have on water.  A major result of the decline in water quality and quantity is the impact on human health.  Many people in Mongolia do not have the means to purchase water or do not have access to improved water sources.  Studies have shown that the lack of water supply is associated with poor hygiene and sanitation.  Improper hygiene and poor sanitary conditions have lead to human health diseases, resulting in morbidity, and sometimes mortality.  Many sources have blamed the diminishing water supply and the increase in water pollution of Mongolia on the lack of funds, poor governmental coordination and enforcement, poor water resource management, and lack of education.  Thus, it is important to put more effort into these areas in order to extend the lifespan of Mongolia’s water resource resulting in improved health of Mongolia’s people.

  Please contact Naranzogt  ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) for the full text of the  paper