A major step forward for conservation in the Mekong region! Today, the Lao Government and International Centre for Environmental Management (ICEM) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Mekong Protected Areas and Development III (Mekong PAD III) program.
Mekong PAD III aims to halt biodiversity loss across the Mekong region through ecosystem protection and restoration, building climate adaptation capacity, and expanding sustainable economic opportunities for forest-dependent communities.
In Laos, project efforts focus on Gnavet village and surrounding communities bordering Hin Nam No National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic karst peaks, pristine forests, and vital river systems. To address threats from climate change, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable development, the program focuses on:
- Ecotourism and sustainable livelihoods
- Ecological restoration and agroforestry
- Landscape management
- Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) mainstreaming.
In Laos, project efforts focus on Gnavet village and surrounding communities bordering Hin Nam No National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic karst peaks, pristine forests, and vital river systems. To address threats from climate change, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable development, the program focuses on:
- Ecotourism and sustainable livelihoods
- Ecological restoration and agroforestry
- Landscape management
- Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) mainstreaming.
Early activities are already underway in Gnavet village, where local farmers recently received high-quality seedlings to set up model integrated farming and agroforestry systems that diversify crops and income while supporting biodiversity.
The newly signed MoU deepens collaboration with the Lao Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, ensuring lasting benefits for local communities, park administration, and national forestry partners.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Lao Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and the Department of Forestry for their leadership and vision. Special thanks to DFAT for their generous partnership and support.
The Mekong PAD III Program is funded by the Australian Government through the Mekong-Australia Partnership and implemented by ICEM as the lead organization, in partnership with IUCN, Landcare Australia, and the University of Tasmania.
