planetGOLD Mongolia-Philippines Regional Project Steering Committee visits mercury-free processing facilities in Mongolia

Members of the planetGOLD Mongolia-Philippines Regional Project Steering Committee, including representatives from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte in the Philippines, the Mongolian Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Federation, and the Artisanal Gold Council (AGC)—the executing agency of the planetGOLD Mongolia and Philippines projects—visited the mercury-free processing facilities (MFPSs) established by the planetGOLD Mongolia project in Mandal Soum, Selenge Province, Mongolia from September 25-25, 2024.

The MFPSs, a key initiative of the planetGOLD Mongolia project, aim to enhance the livelihoods of artisanal miners while reducing the environmental impact of mining practices. Ms. Hoa Lai, Project Administrator at UNIDO, emphasized the significance of these facilities, noting that they not only improve the financial access and economic well-being of local miners but also contribute to environmentally sustainable practices in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector.

During the visit, representatives from the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte and the planetGOLD Philippines project expressed particular interest in the technological processes, maintenance, and operational considerations of the facilities. They engaged with Technologist Engineer Byambasuren Odgerel from the planetGOLD Mongolia project, who provided insights into the successful implementation and functionality of the MFPSs.

The delegation also acknowledged Mongolia's unique position as the only country in the planetGOLD Programme with four distinct seasons, praising the project for successfully establishing these facilities despite the challenges posed by harsh winters and other environmental conditions. They extended their gratitude to the artisanal mining organizations Shijir Khishig Partnership and Positive Mind LLC, whose collaboration has been instrumental in the operation of the MFPSs.