Introduction
Introduction
Pursuant to the 1997 Mongolian Law on Buffer Zones, the Hustai National Park Trust--in collaboration with the administrations of Altanbulag, Argalant and Bayankhangai soums-- proposed boundaries for the Hustai National Park (HNP) Buffer Zone. The area was approved by the Khurals of these soums and subsequently submitted to the Ministry of Nature and Environment, which approved the proposal in Ministerial Order Number 261 in 2001. The buffer zone occupies 349,700 hectares in Altanbulag, Argalant and Bayanhangai soums. The purpose of buffer zones is to minimize, eliminate and prevent actual and potential adverse impacts to special protected areas like HNP, increase public participation and establish requirements for the proper use of natural resources. A Buffer Zone Council provides advice on development of the buffer zone; the restoration, protection and proper use of natural resources; and the participation of local people. A Buffer Zone Fund provides monies to help develop the buffer zone and help support local people’s livelihoods.
Purpose
The HNP Buffer Zone Unit works to implement community-based conservation concepts, and to help enhance stakeholder participation in environmental protection, improve livelihoods of local people, reduce environmental conflicts and crimes, change attitudes toward conservation and mitigate the negative impacts of human uses on protected areas through active participation of citizens.
