The 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021-2025) and the National Green Growth Strategy to 2030 emphasize Lao PDR’s commitment to transforming its development platform into one focused on green and sustainable practices. The Natural Resources and Environment sector, specifically waste management, is integral to this transformation, outlined in environment target 3 of the 5-year work plan (2021-2025). The plan aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 12, focusing on Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP), with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment serving as the National Focal Point.
SCP spans various sectors such as Industry and Commerce, Agriculture and Forestry, Energy and Mines, Natural Resources and Environment, Public Works and Transportation, Education and Sport, Information, Culture and Tourism, and related areas. It addresses resource consumption in manufacturing and waste management, aiming for a united and efficient approach. Recognizing the fragmented and decentralized nature of existing efforts, the development of a Sustainable Consumption and Production Roadmap for Lao PDR is deemed essential. This roadmap aims to establish plans, prioritize activities, assign responsibilities, and create a unified framework for implementation, support, and systematic reporting, monitoring, and evaluation mechanisms. The goal is to ensure that sustainable consumption and production practices are coherent, specific, efficient, and effective across various sectors.