Geographical science is one of the oldest sciences, originating from humanity’s need to understand the surrounding environment. Ancient Greek scholars such as Herodotus, Eratosthenes, and Strabo were among the first to systematically study the shape of the Earth, continents, oceans, and countries, thereby laying the foundations of geographical science. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the expeditions of travelers such as Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan discovered new lands and sea routes, greatly expanding human knowledge of the world. As a result, geography evolved from simple travel accounts into an independent science that studies nature, population, economy, and social development.

   The Mongolian people have possessed geographical knowledge for centuries. As nomadic pastoralists, Mongolians carefully observed and understood mountains, rivers, pastures, climate, waterways, and landforms. Historical sources such as The Secret History of the Mongols and the chronicles of the Yuan Dynasty contain records about foreign countries, natural disasters, and geographical features. From the 13th century onward, travelers from Europe and Asia journeyed through Mongolia and left written accounts of their observations. Beginning in the 17th and 18th centuries, professional natural scientists from America, Sweden, and Russia conducted research in Mongolia, producing valuable works and information about its nature, population, and economy. Since the 20th century, geographical science in Mongolia has developed officially through the establishment of scientific institutes, university departments, and research organizations, which continue to advance modern geographical theories and multidisciplinary research.

   Traditionally, geographical science is divided into two major branches: physical geography and socio-economic geography. Physical geography studies the spatial variations of the natural environment, including landforms, climate, water, soil, vegetation, and wildlife, as well as their origin, development, and patterns of change. Socio-economic geography, on the other hand, examines population, settlement, production, economic activities, and the spatial organization and development of society. Although these branches may appear separate, they are closely interconnected through the relationship between nature and society. Modern geographical science has therefore evolved into an interdisciplinary field that studies natural and social phenomena in an integrated manner.

   Furthermore, geographical science is important not only for knowledge and understanding, but also for fostering patriotism, environmental awareness, aesthetic appreciation, and ecological education, especially among children and young people. Mongolia’s unique pristine environment, vast territory, and nomadic civilization further enhance the significance of geographical studies.

   The Mongolian Geographical Society operates with the primary goal of promoting geographical knowledge and information to society, while supporting efforts to study, protect, and sustainably utilize natural resources. In addition to expanding national and international cooperation, our society organizes academic conferences, discussions, training programs, expeditions, and public outreach activities. We strive to support the effective application of research findings in policy-making, planning, education, and environmental conservation. Moreover, we are committed to making knowledge and information about Mongolia’s nature, territory, population, and socio-economic patterns and transformations accessible to the public, thereby strengthening the role of geographical science in society.

   We warmly invite researchers, teachers, students, professionals, and all those interested in geographical science to actively participate in the activities of the Mongolian Geographical Society, share their knowledge, experience, and innovative ideas, and work together for the advancement of Mongolian and global geographical science.

Sincerely,

Dorjgotov Battogtokh, PhD
Associate Professor
President of the Mongolian Geographical Society