Naranbadrakh: The Mongolian Champion Promoting Empathy and Environmental Awareness
In the heart of Mongolia, a passionate movement is taking shape, directed by none other than Batkhuu Naranbadrakh, a herder advocate dedicated to safeguarding the environment while nurturing ancient traditions. The Mongolia is Horse Heaven Movement stands as a testament to this endeavor, and it particularly aims to preserve one of humanity's oldest partnerships—the bond between humans and horses. This initiative pays homage to the late Dr. Jane Goodall, whose message of empathy and environmental action resonates deeply within the movement.
On July 11, 2025, during the inaugural World Horse Day, Dr. Goodall highlighted the importance of protecting these majestic animals, stating, "World Horse Day is not just a celebration – it's a call to protect one of humanity's oldest partnerships.” This poignant declaration now serves as the guiding principle for a growing coalition of Mongolian herders committed to reversing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable practices across the vast steppe. More than 3,000 herders are currently participating, addressing the alarming issue of desertification that plagues 76% of Mongolia's 129 million hectares of pastureland.
The idea for this collective initiative was sparked by a meeting in Paris in November 2023, where Naranbadrakh and Goodall joined forces to establish what they termed a "Legacy of Hope." Together, they introduced the Grassland Carbon and Compassion Framework, a unique approach to incorporating rangeland carbon management into Mongolia's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. This innovative framework, supported by the Jane Goodall Institute alongside the UN Environment Programme, is set to be unveiled at the upcoming COP17 in August 2026, emphasizing herder-led solutions to combat land degradation and climate change.
Emphasizing the power of choice, Goodall remarked, “Hope is not a wish – it's a choice.” In response, Naranbadrakh added, “One soul can replant a steppe; together, we heal the Earth.” This sentiment underscores the essence of the Mongolia is Horse Heaven Movement, which promotes eco-tourism, sustainable herding practices, and the marketing of organic dairy products under a national Green Herder Standard.
Recognized globally for their efforts, the movement received the Sustainable Development Leadership Award from the United Nations in 2022. That same year marked another milestone with the UN General Assembly’s endorsement of World Horse Day, affirming Mongolia's role as a hub for equine-assisted therapy and conservation efforts.
In March 2025, the movement rolled out the Empathy Education Program, successfully connecting 3,000 children with herder families. Participants care for young animals, fostering a relationship that emphasizes compassion. This program has drawn interest from UNICEF and the World Health Organization, who are evaluating its positive effects on mental health. This initiative reflects the deep philosophy that empathy and connection with nature can yield massive benefits for both individuals and communities.
An inspiring narrative emerges within the movement: Naranbadrakh's rescue of a gray horse named Naidvar (which translates to 'Hope') has turned into a powerful symbol of mercy. Blessed by Pope Francis, Naidvar embodies the compassion that Naranbadrakh and Goodall advocate. This heartfelt image resonates with Goodall’s belief that compassion, when shared, has the potential to foster harmony across the globe.
As Mongolia prepares to host COP17, the Mongolia is Horse Heaven Movement remains a living embodiment of Goodall's enduring message. Dr. Goodall aptly stated, “Let us, metaphorically, ride together and build a more peaceful world through empathy, education, and our shared love of horses.” Through the efforts of the movement and the inspiring leadership of Naranbadrakh, the spirit of Goodall's legacy continues to thrive, echoing the importance of empathy as a powerful tool in healing our planet.
Founded by Batkhuu Naranbadrakh, this movement empowers Mongolian herders to lead initiatives aimed at restoring grasslands, diversifying incomes, and fostering empathy education, all while being recognized by the United Nations for its sustainable development leadership, blending ancient nomadic knowledge with contemporary environmental strategies. Visit Horseheaven.mn for more information.
On July 11, 2025, during the inaugural World Horse Day, Dr. Goodall highlighted the importance of protecting these majestic animals, stating, "World Horse Day is not just a celebration – it's a call to protect one of humanity's oldest partnerships.” This poignant declaration now serves as the guiding principle for a growing coalition of Mongolian herders committed to reversing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable practices across the vast steppe. More than 3,000 herders are currently participating, addressing the alarming issue of desertification that plagues 76% of Mongolia's 129 million hectares of pastureland.
The idea for this collective initiative was sparked by a meeting in Paris in November 2023, where Naranbadrakh and Goodall joined forces to establish what they termed a "Legacy of Hope." Together, they introduced the Grassland Carbon and Compassion Framework, a unique approach to incorporating rangeland carbon management into Mongolia's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. This innovative framework, supported by the Jane Goodall Institute alongside the UN Environment Programme, is set to be unveiled at the upcoming COP17 in August 2026, emphasizing herder-led solutions to combat land degradation and climate change.
Emphasizing the power of choice, Goodall remarked, “Hope is not a wish – it's a choice.” In response, Naranbadrakh added, “One soul can replant a steppe; together, we heal the Earth.” This sentiment underscores the essence of the Mongolia is Horse Heaven Movement, which promotes eco-tourism, sustainable herding practices, and the marketing of organic dairy products under a national Green Herder Standard.
Recognized globally for their efforts, the movement received the Sustainable Development Leadership Award from the United Nations in 2022. That same year marked another milestone with the UN General Assembly’s endorsement of World Horse Day, affirming Mongolia's role as a hub for equine-assisted therapy and conservation efforts.
In March 2025, the movement rolled out the Empathy Education Program, successfully connecting 3,000 children with herder families. Participants care for young animals, fostering a relationship that emphasizes compassion. This program has drawn interest from UNICEF and the World Health Organization, who are evaluating its positive effects on mental health. This initiative reflects the deep philosophy that empathy and connection with nature can yield massive benefits for both individuals and communities.
An inspiring narrative emerges within the movement: Naranbadrakh's rescue of a gray horse named Naidvar (which translates to 'Hope') has turned into a powerful symbol of mercy. Blessed by Pope Francis, Naidvar embodies the compassion that Naranbadrakh and Goodall advocate. This heartfelt image resonates with Goodall’s belief that compassion, when shared, has the potential to foster harmony across the globe.
As Mongolia prepares to host COP17, the Mongolia is Horse Heaven Movement remains a living embodiment of Goodall's enduring message. Dr. Goodall aptly stated, “Let us, metaphorically, ride together and build a more peaceful world through empathy, education, and our shared love of horses.” Through the efforts of the movement and the inspiring leadership of Naranbadrakh, the spirit of Goodall's legacy continues to thrive, echoing the importance of empathy as a powerful tool in healing our planet.
About Mongolia is Horse Heaven Movement
Founded by Batkhuu Naranbadrakh, this movement empowers Mongolian herders to lead initiatives aimed at restoring grasslands, diversifying incomes, and fostering empathy education, all while being recognized by the United Nations for its sustainable development leadership, blending ancient nomadic knowledge with contemporary environmental strategies. Visit Horseheaven.mn for more information.
Topics Environment）
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