International Earth Day was observed on April 22 under the global theme “Our power, our planet”, with countries worldwide calling for stronger environmental protection and sustainable living practices.

The day highlights the importance of minimizing human impact on nature and recognizes individuals contributing to environmental conservation efforts. In Mongolia, 20 professionals were selected as national awardees by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Nature Conservancy, and the Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation. 

This year, G.Myagmarragchaa, Environmental Inspector from the Ulaan Taiga Protected Area Administration, was named the “Best of the Best” conservationist in snow leopard habitats for the third consecutive year of the initiative.

During his service, he has prevented nine attempted poaching cases, confiscated illegal firearms, and stopped four illegal hunting incidents on site. In one notable case, he intervened while hunters were attempting to kill two rare moose, preventing significant environmental damage.

Speaking at the award ceremony, G.Myagmarragchaa expressed gratitude, stating that the recognition reflects not only his efforts but also the dedication of his team. The event also highlighted international cooperation in wildlife conservation, including support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the UK, which has been working on projects to combat illegal wildlife trade and strengthen conservation capacity in Asia’s mountainous regions.

Speakers emphasized that protecting biodiversity is a shared global responsibility requiring cooperation between governments, researchers, organizations, and local communities.