"Uuliin Nuur" Park

Creation of new green areas, Management and improved protection of rivers and other blue areas, Transformation of previously derelict areas

The project aimed to achieve the following objectives: - transforming the abandoned dumping site into green space; - restoring the lake; - reducing air pollution by planting trees; - increasing aesthetic value and offer recreational opportunities in the area for locals and visitors; - making one area of the ger districts a better area to live in; - organizing social events and increasing the sense of solidarity between community members to respect and maintain the park; - providing free education to the local children, including English & music lessons; - showcasing the relevance of the area in the history of Mongolia by opening the Sakura ger museum in the park (Ref. 1, 2, 3, 4)

From 2013 to 2019, approximately 1,000 trees and shrubs were planted in this park during the spring and autumn seasons, and these trees are watered using water from the lake. About 50% of the aforementioned trees were planted by Ulziitogtokh, who is the project founder, while the remainder were planted by locals, families, and foreign visitors as memorial trees. As of 2022, over 1,000 decorative and fruit trees and bushes, consisting of about 20 types, are growing in the "Uuliin Nuur" park, in addition to the park's 40 sakura trees. (Ref. 2). In the past (after the quarry closed), the lake was a 4-5 meter deep hollow. In the 2000s, due to the migration and concentration of rural families coming to Ulaanbaatar and the expansion of ger residential areas, the lake that was fed by rainwater dried up and turned into a puddle. First, in 2009, it was a dry ravine without water. After cleaning the garbage that had been dumped on the ground, it was fed by rainwater, and the lake was formed. Now there are 1.4 meters of water at its deepest point. The lake boosts humidity around this area. This area was very hot in the summer, but after planting trees and restoring the lake, the climate has become more humid. (Ref. 1, 2) Additionally, various facilities and constructions were installed in the Uuliin Nuur Park, including an educational center building (which includes a library for elementary and middle-aged children, Legos, cognitive development games, study rooms, and musical instruments), a "Sakura" ger museum, an outdoor stage, sunshades, a wooden platform around the lake, a wooden entrance, streetlights, a city view platform, boats, and CCTV sets (Ref. 1, 3, 4). The park is very popular among both locals and tourists. On a summer day, one can find people sailing boats on the water, along with various species of water birds. During the winter, despite the harsh temperatures, the ice rink is usually packed with children and young people. Many tourists and some locals head to a viewing platform to enjoy the beautiful vista of the entire city. (Ref. 3, 4)

• Citizens or community groups
• Marginalized groups: Elderly people, People with functional diversities
• Young people and children