In 2015 nearly 85% of Mongolia's grasslands were classed as "healthy". Today it's only 15%.

Livestock numbers have exceeded carrying capacities steadily since the early 2000's. Climate effects exacerbate the situation and demand non-traditional responses. The number of herders and the size of herds has grown, as rural incomes have become progressively dependent on cashmere.

 

The result is a stewardship gap. Herders aren't able to look after the landscape whilst their time and focus is dominated by ever increasing livestock numbers. 

 

It's a tragedy not of the commons, but of the impact of our economic system on nature. 

 

The fix is a concerted effort to support effective stewardship. It requires action at the landscape level, innovation and collaboration in supply systems, and finance designed for nature.