Adaptable, transportable and easy on the environment: the Mongolian Ger
The environmentally friendly ‘Ger’
Munkhjargal Nergui from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Mongolia explains the advantages of their traditional dwelling.
Mongolians have experienced nomadic civilization for many thousands of years. So we have developed our traditional house consistent with nature and the environment. According to some archaeological findings, Ger existed more than 3000 years ago. But the oldest complete Ger which was discovered by archaeologists belongs to the 13th century. At that timeGenghis Khan used to live in this kind of Ger and conquered the half of the world. It is incredible
Ger consists of two pillars, the crown, wall sections and poles. After putting all these things together, it is covered with felt which is made of sheep’s wool during winter and cotton during summer to make it cool. Then it is strongly tied with ropes. Ger can be designed in all sizes from small to big. Average size is about 5x5 square meters.
Their are many advantages of Ger. Firstly, it is adaptable to weather. Warm in cold weather, cool in hot weather and stable in strong wind and storms. During summer time, covers are pulled up and air freely comes in and out through the wall sections.
The second thing is that it is easy to assemble and disassemble. Even one person can do it alone.
Next, it is transportable. According to their nomadic lifestyle, herders have to move four times a year. So the Ger must be suitable for transportation.
Furthermore, herders can forecast weather by looking at the sky and calculate the time from the reflection of sunshine through the crown.
Finally, the Ger is environmentally friendly. Traditionally, Mongolians use animal waste for heating “Ger” so it doesn’t pollute too much. Additionally, Ger can be used for several generations because it can be assembled and disassembled without damage. When Mongolians move from one place to another, they do not leave any waste in the former place. In terms of restrooms, nomads have strict controls. When they come to a new place for temporary settling, they choose a place which is far away from rivers and sacred areas. After they leave the place, they landfill the place where the restroom was located.
I recommend my friends to come to Mongolia and stay in a Ger. It would be wonderful to look at the stars lying in bed.
