In December 2025, Mongolia marked a major milestone in urban water resilience with the official launch of its first industrial-scale water recycling system, developed with early support from the Korea Green Growth Trust Fund (KGGTF). The launch event highlighted how partnerships and targeted technical assistance can translate innovative ideas into operational solutions for cities under climate stress.
The project responds to a growing challenge in Ulaanbaatar, where groundwater supplies are under increasing pressure from urban growth and industrial demand. These pressures pose particular risks for critical infrastructure, including the Amgalan Thermal Plant, which provides district heating to Bayanzurkh district, the most densely populated area of the capital. In a city where winter temperatures regularly fall below 30 degrees Celsius, securing a reliable and climate-resilient water supply is essential for public safety and economic activity.
From Concept to Commissioning
With early financing from KGGTF, the World Bank supported technical collaboration between the Amgalan Thermal Plant, MCS Coca Cola, and government partners to explore how treated wastewater could be safely reused for industrial operations. Drawing on global experience and Korean expertise, particularly technical assistance from Korea Environmental Industry & Technology Institute (KEITI), in advanced water reuse technologies, the partnership assessed technical feasibility, energy efficiency, and regulatory requirements.
The work progressed rapidly from design to construction, culminating in a Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2024 and the completion of the Amgalan Water Recycling Scheme. The system is now ready to begin operations.
A Solution with Immediate Impact
Once operational, the facility will recycle approximately 140,000 cubic meters of wastewater each year, reducing pressure on groundwater resources and easing demand on Ulaanbaatar’s wastewater treatment system. Most importantly, it will provide a stable and climate-resilient water source for district heating, safeguarding services for households, schools, hospitals, and businesses across Bayanzurkh district.
National Attention and Momentum
The launch event received strong national media attention, underscoring the project’s significance for Mongolia’s climate and infrastructure agenda. Coverage included broadcasts on four national television channels NTV, MNB, Eagle News, ETV), featured on four news websites (zuv, ikon, eguur, itoim), and shared across social media by the Amgalan thermal plant, Cola, and the "MECC.
The event was further amplified through social media by the Amgalan Thermal Plant, MCS Coca Cola, and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
Looking Ahead
Beyond this milestone, the project is helping shape Mongolia’s pathway to scale industrial water recycling nationwide. Early technical groundwork supported by KGGTF financing has informed a new policy paper outlining regulatory approaches to expand water reuse across sectors.
The Amgalan launch offers a clear example of what works when public leadership, private-sector engagement, and international expertise come together, delivering practical solutions that strengthen water security, protect essential services, and build resilience in a changing climate.
Grant: Support to the Ulaanbaatar Flood Protection and Sewer Rehabilitation Project
Grant Year: Year 12 (2024)
TTLs: Qin Gang, Senior Water Supply and Sanitation Specialist; and James Tay, Senior Water Supply and Sanitation Specialist