Lao PDR

Advancing sustainable growth through targeted action on solid waste and plastic pollution.

Challenges and opportunities

Every year, ASEAN countries generate over 31 million tons of plastic waste, and only a fraction gets recycled. 

In Lao PDR, single-used plastics are increasingly becoming a concern. Plastic waste ends up in rivers, impacting biodiversity, local communities and people’s health. 

The improper disposal and open-burning of plastic waste contribute to air pollution and harms wildlife, including fish, which are vital for local diets and economies.

However, it is not too late to change the course and reduce plastic pollution.

Lao PDR joins the Global Plastic Action Partnership

Recognizing the urgency of these challenges, the Government of Lao PDR is committed to addressing solid waste and plastic pollution as part of its sustainable growth strategy. 

This vision, outlined in the National Green Growth Strategy 2030, prioritizes reforms to preserve natural capital while minimizing environmental impacts.

At the ASEAN Conference on Combatting Plastic Pollution 2024, hosted in Vientiane and co-organized by Lao PDR, the country joined the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP). This partnership reinforces Lao PDR's commitment to tackling plastic pollution and advancing a sustainable, green economy.

Lao PDR

Lao PDR has recently joined the Global Plastic Action Partnership, and I hope that, like other countries in the region, Lao PDR would be better equipped to combat plastic pollution. 

I would like to reiterate that Lao PDR is dedicated to contributing to this global effort in addressing plastic pollution and aligning our national strategies with international goals.

H.E Mr. Phouvong Luangxaysana

Vice-Minister of Natural Resources and Environment

GPAP’s collaborative model for Lao PDR

The partnership between GPAP and Lao PDR is driven by a multi-stakeholder approach, led by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

Through GPAP’s tailored tools and analyses, we will support Lao PDR in making evidence-based decisions with the following:

  • Baseline analysis: An overview of current plastic waste generation and management. 
  • Solutions scenario modelling: Insights using the National Analysis and Modelling tool to forecast impact. 
  • Social context assessment: Ensuring inclusivity and equitable solutions. 
  • National plastic action roadmap: Identifying key opportunities and challenges across Lao PDR's plastics value chain.

NPAP Lao PDR Secretariat

The NPAP Lao PDR Secretariat is hosted by the UNDP Lao PDR, in partnership with the Global Plastic Action Partnership of the World Economic Forum.

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