Representatives of government bodies, civil society, academia, and the private sector gather for a group photo to mark the launch of the campaign in Vientiane on January 22.

Youth-led climate campaign launched to tackle environmental challenges

Environmental challenges in Laos will be tackled through sustainable consumption and production practices encouraged under the Climate Exchange Campaign.
The official launch of the Climate Exchange Campaign, an exciting initiative designed to empower youth to address climate change, took place in Vientiane on Wednesday.

Ms Veerle SMET.

This youth-driven campaign seeks to enable the next generation to take a leading role in addressing critical environmental issues through advocacy, innovation, and collaboration.
The launch was supported by the European Union (EU), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Swisscontact, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and other key partners.
It brought together over 60 representatives from government bodies, civil society, academia, and the private sector. Discussions focused on reducing single-use plastics and fostering environmental awareness.
The event was divided into two sessions: pioneering solutions to combat single-use plastic pollution and advocacy and awareness for a sustainable future.
Collaborative solutions to reduce single-use plastics
 The first session, “Collaborative Solutions for Reducing Single-Use Plastics in Public Spaces,” tackled Laos’ plastic waste challenges.
Keynote speaker Mr Nakkhalin Volarsan from the Department of Pollution Control highlighted issues in waste collection, recycling, and regulation enforcement. He called for innovative, multi-sectoral responses to address inefficiencies and low public awareness.
Panellists, including MSc Bounphak Lorbriayao from the National University of Laos and Ms. Valy Phommachak from Plastic Free Laos, shared success stories from Vientiane and Luang Prabang. They emphasised the National Plastic Action Plan’s role in reducing single-use plastics and advancing sustainable development goals.
Fostering environmental awareness and advocacy
 The second session, “Fostering Environmental Awareness and Advocacy,” highlighted the role of community-driven efforts in promoting sustainable practices.
Keynote speaker Ms Souphavanh Sensouphanh from the Youth Consultative Group stressed engaging women and youth as key to driving environmental transformation.
Panellists, including Mrs Lienkham Vilaphanh from the Lao Women’s Union and MSc Sengvilayvanh Singthavikhoun from SEED, discussed empowering civil society to influence policy. They advocated for multi-stakeholder mechanisms, better communication channels, and capacity-building initiatives to ensure policies address diverse needs, particularly underrepresented communities.
Interactive activities and future goals
 Interactive activities engaged participants and encouraged public involvement in addressing environmental challenges.
Moving forward, the Climate Exchange Campaign will focus on youth-led initiatives like workshops and mentorship programmes to equip young people as “Climate Responders.” By fostering collaboration and innovation, the campaign aims to build a sustainable future for Laos.
Call to action
Dyan Buratzki, Project Manager for the Sustainable Consumption and Production in the Lao PDR Project, highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful change.
“To effectively initiate plastic-free policies, it is essential to establish robust collaborations across government, the private sector, and civil society, while scaling initiatives through synergy and inclusivity,” she said.
“Equally important is the enhancement of public education through targeted and adaptable campaigns aimed at fostering meaningful behaviour change.”
“Awareness raising should transcend mere dissemination of information and focus on driving tangible behavioural shifts through well-planned, flexible, and collaborative efforts. Continual feedback and adaptation are critical to ensuring sustained improvement and impact,” she added.
The Climate Exchange Campaign embodies the spirit of collective action, innovation, and youth leadership. Supported by international and local partners, it represents a vital step towards achieving a greener and more resilient Mekong region.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update January 23, 2025)