Livestock Monitoring in Mongolia
MASAE was commissioned by the OECD—in partnership with the Mongolian National Statistical Office—to help address a critical challenge: how to accurately and efficiently monitor Mongolia’s rapidly growing livestock population while safeguarding the country’s natural resources.
Geography
Services
Domains
Technologies
Client Type
Client
OECD (in collaboration with the Mongolian National Statistical Office)
Year:
2024
Regions
Why This Matters
Livestock farming is a cornerstone of Mongolia’s economy, with herd numbers rising significantly over recent decades. However, this growth brings new risks—especially as climate change and land use pressures intensify. Understanding herd sizes and their environmental impact is essential for sustainable management and policy planning.
Our Approach
MASAE’s team harnessed the power of cutting-edge technology to deliver actionable insights:
Satellite-Based Livestock Monitoring:
We developed a prototype that uses high-resolution satellite imagery and artificial intelligence to detect and count large animals, such as cattle and camels. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective and precise alternative to traditional livestock censuses.Environmental Impact Assessment:
By analysing 20 years of satellite data, we studied the relationship between grazing intensity and vegetation health. Our findings revealed that while Mongolia’s vegetation has generally improved, areas with high concentrations of livestock show signs of slower recovery—highlighting the need for careful land management.Results and Recommendations:
Our pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of using satellite technology for livestock monitoring and environmental assessment. The results provide valuable guidance for Mongolian policymakers and international organisations seeking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Results and Recommendations
Our pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of using satellite technology for livestock monitoring and environmental assessment. The results provide valuable guidance for Mongolian policymakers and international organisations seeking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
