ADOPTION OF THE TOWARD SUSTAINABLE MINING (TSM) STANDARD IN MONGOLIA: RECOMMENDATION BASED ON THE EXPERIENCE OF THE ‘ENERGY RESOURCES’ LLC

Abstract

Energy Resource’ LLC is used as a case study in this thesis to examine the adoption of the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) standard in Mongolia and evaluate the opportunities and difficulties of applying global sustainability frameworks to the mining industry in Mongolia. This study investigates awareness levels, operational gaps, and institutional readiness for sustainable mining practices through semi-structured interviews and structured surveys with ‘Energy Resource’ LLC employees at the Ukhaa Khudag Mine. Survey results reveal that while 70% of regular employees were unfamiliar with the TSM standard by name, most actively supported sustainability principles in their daily work. Significant difficulties with training, documentation, communication, and resource allocation were found through thematic analysis of interviews. The main challenges were poor comprehension of the TSM criteria, a lack of organized training, inconsistent language, and restricted access to historical data. The study employs a weighted challenge evaluation system and proposes practical recommendations such as mandatory TSM training, centralized document management systems, standardized terminology, and dedicated TSM implementation teams. The findings underscore that companies with existing ISO certifications were better prepared for TSM adoption, highlighting the value of integrated management systems. Ultimately, this thesis provides policymakers and mining companies in Mongolia with practical advice on conforming to global sustainability standards. It concludes that Mongolia can establish its status as a regional leader in responsible mining by strategically investing in internal capacity and stakeholder engagement.