719 trees planted in Nalaikh district as part of ‘My Forest Child’ project

Tree planting efforts continued this weekend in Ulaanbaatar’s Nalaikh district, as part of Save the Children Mongolia’s ongoing “My Forest Child” initiative. On 7 and 8 June, a diverse group of volunteers including citizens, private sector employees came together to plant 719 trees in the district’s fifth khoroo.

Participants included staff from Save the Children, Peace Corps volunteers, residents of Nalaikh district, employees from Nexia Mongolia LLC, members of the British Alumni Association, representatives of the labor, training and development center for the Blind, and 1995 alumni from school No. 3 in Uliastai, Zavkhan province. In total, 297 lilac trees and 422 yellow acacias were planted over the two-day effort, contributing to the creation of sustainable green spaces in the district.

 

Kh. Altantsetseg, a resident of the fifth khoroo, expressed her support for the initiative. “My family is delighted that a forest has been established in our district. We must take the lead in this work  for future generations. That’s why I’ve invited my family and neighbors to join in planting trees.” Members of the Labor, Training and Development Center for the Blind also took part, saying they were pleased to have the opportunity to contribute directly to conservation.

Peace Corps volunteer Kristen Burger, who planted more than 60 trees alongside fellow volunteer Blake Grove, described the experience as meaningful. “Every tree we plant is a step toward fighting climate change” she said. “I’ve been working hard and I’m excited to be part of it”.

Bayan-Altai Luvsandorj, Country Manager of Save the Children in Mongolia, thanked local residents and participating organizations for their voluntary support. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined this effort to create a greener future for the next generation” he said.

Tree planting guidance was provided by project coordinator Batzaya Tsegmid and project officer D. Dorjkhand, who shared tips on proper planting and care techniques.  “My Forest Child” initiative aims to plant more than 90,000 trees across five hectares in Nalaikh’s fifth khoroo by the end of the project.

Launched in August 2024, “My Forest Child” project is training local residents to become climate change educators. So far, 50 residents have been trained, and they are leading awareness activities across the district. In collaboration with Nalaikh’s Development and Public Services Department and the Elders’ Committee, over 250 residents and more than 190 students have already participated in training sessions. By the end of 2025, the project aims to reach 1,500 people.

The project is also supporting the creation of eco clubs in schools across Nalaikh. With support from the project team, students have already launched micro projects in six schools to promote environmental education and climate awareness.

“My Forest Child” initiative is not just about planting trees. It’s about planting knowledge, hope, and responsibility for a greener and more sustainable future in the hearts of Nalaikh district’s youth.