KPL
The Government of the Lao PDR has officially launched a new Pollution and Waste Management Project aimed at promoting a cleaner, healthier and more resilient environment across the country.
The project, which will run from 2025 to 2031, seeks to strengthen pollution control monitoring and enforcement, improve solid waste management systems in targeted areas, and enhance emergency response capacity during environmental disasters. The initiative reflects growing national efforts to address mounting waste challenges and urban environmental pressures.
According to official data, Laos generates an estimated 6,900 tonnes of household waste each day, with Vientiane Capital accounting for approximately 15 percent of the total. However, waste collection services currently cover less than half of the waste generated, leaving significant volumes improperly disposed of in unauthorized dumping sites. Such practices contribute to air pollution, contaminate water sources and pose serious risks to public health.
The new project will prioritize the development of standardized landfill infrastructure, improve the financial sustainability of waste management systems, and reduce operational costs. Expanding and modernizing waste collection services—particularly in Vientiane Capital—will be a central focus.
In addition, the project will introduce composting equipment and promote waste separation at the source to encourage recycling and the conversion of organic waste into value-added, income-generating products. These measures aim to reduce landfill volumes while supporting greener economic opportunities.
Once fully implemented, the project is expected to directly benefit approximately 645,000 people—around 70 percent of Vientiane’s population—by providing more systematic, reliable and efficient waste collection services. Officials say the initiative marks an important step toward sustainable urban development and improved environmental protection in the Lao PDR.
KPL
