This research project evaluates the impact of pastoral livestock on biodiversity and the leadership role of women herders using the TAPE methodology – the Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation.

The project is funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and is being implemented from October 2024 to December 2025. Its aim is to assess the outcomes of the Responsible Nomadic Pastoral Livestock Good Practice Standard through the TAPE methodology and to identify its impacts on biodiversity in nomadic pastoral systems and on the leadership of women herders.

Research Locations

The study is being conducted in Alag-Erdene soum of Khövsgöl aimag, Bulgan soum of Arkhangai aimag, Uyanga soum of Övörkhangai aimag, Öndörshireet soum of Töv aimag, and Tsagaan-Ovoo soum of Dornod aimag, with a total of 420 herder households participating. Of these, 210 households have adopted the Responsible Nomadic Standard, while the other 210 households have not. In addition, 20 group discussions and 10 individual interviews have been conducted on topics related to biodiversity and women herders’ leadership.

Expected Outcomes

The results of the research will provide clear insights into the impacts of eco-certification on the environment, as well as how nomadic, intensive, and semi-intensive livestock systems affect biodiversity and women’s leadership. These findings will be presented to the public during the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.