Research Guides: Understanding LAOS: Environmental

At A Glance

NYIN DEE!

The following information have been carefully selected for your reference. Some resources may have bias perspectives. Please approach the SMU Libraries (library@smu.edu.sg ) should you have any doubts or need clarifications.

Lao PDR is one of the most bombed countries in the world, with dangerous unexploded ordnance still threatening lives and increasing the costs of development.

This video shows how with UNDP’s support, the Lao National Unexploded Ordnance Programme (UXO Lao) has worked for 20 years to clear the bombs, make land safe, and educate people about the risks.

In this "The Amazon of Asia (2010)" video, it explores how the new dams pose a threat to the ecosystem and endangering several species.

Weighing up potential developments and damages, the Lao people face a tough dilemma: "I'm worried about the environment but I want our village to have electricity".

Environmental

This section explores the environmental aspects in Laos.

Current Issues
Find out the various current environmental issues faced in Laos.
Lao PDR Global Climate Change Alliance Programme
The overall objective of this alliance programme is to mainstream climate change into the Government of Lao PDR's poverty eradication efforts. Find out more on the key achievements and expected results in this global climate change programme.
Funding Laos
Find out how much does the Global Environment Facility has been funding Laos.
ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre
The main roles of ASMC are:
1) Monitor and assess land and forest fires, as well as the occurrence of transboundary smoke haze for the ASEAN region.
2) Conduct seasonal and climate predictions for the ASEAN region.

Project Anoulak (‘conservation’ in Lao language) is a French-registered non-for-profit association dedicated to the long-term conservation and study of wildlife in their natural habitats in Lao PDR, in particular in the Nakai- Nam Theun National Protected Area (NNT NPA).

Find out more about what's Project Anoulak mission and vision on the biodiversity and ecosystems in Lao PDR.

As more forests are cut for timber, nature reserves are becoming ever more important for both elephants and the people of Laos. Now they are learning how to protect the forests while making a major contribution to protecting the climate.

Concerns over Dams

Al Jazeera's Wayne Hay reports from southern Laos. In this video, he finds out more about the controversial Don Sahong dam in Laos.

The communist government says it needs the project to improve its economy. But many who rely on the river argue that not enough research has been done to protect the environment.

Deputy Minister of Energy and Mines Viraphonh Viravong shares his views on the controversial project. Environmentalists fear it will threaten fisheries and communities. However, the Lao government says these concerns are exaggerated. Find out more in this video.