Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR, June 18, 2026 – United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Department of Water Resources (DWR) of Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), through the Integrated Water Resources Management and Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (IWRM-EbA) Project, commemorated World Environment Day 2026 through a public awareness and knowledge-sharing event at Souphanouvong University in Luang Prabang Province.  

The event brought together representatives from government agencies, academia, development partners, students, and local stakeholders to raise awareness of environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and sustainable management of water and natural resources. The opening ceremony was co-chaired by the Dean of Souphanouvong University and a representative of the Department of Water Resources. 

World Environment Day serves as a global platform to encourage action for environmental sustainability and to promote collective responsibility in addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and ecosystem degradation. In Lao PDR, these challenges increasingly affect water resources, livelihoods, and community resilience, highlighting the importance of integrated and inclusive approaches to environmental management. 

Through the event, the Government of Lao PDR, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) highlighted their joint efforts to strengthen climate resilience through integrated water resources management and ecosystem-based adaptation approaches. These efforts contribute to the restoration and protection of ecosystems, promote sustainable water governance, and support communities and local authorities in reducing vulnerability to climate-related risks such as floods and droughts in the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin and Luang Prabang City. 

A key focus of the celebration was to engage students and young people as future environmental leaders. Participants had the opportunity to learn about ecosystem conservation, climate adaptation measures, and the critical role that healthy watersheds and natural ecosystems play in supporting sustainable development. The event also featured exhibitions and information displays highlighting project achievements, local environmental initiatives, and practical examples of nature-based solutions implemented in project target areas. 

UNDP remains committed to supporting the Government of Lao PDR, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and the Department of Water Resources in advancing sustainable natural resource management, climate resilience, and ecosystem conservation. Through partnerships with academic institutions such as Souphanouvong University, the IWRM-EbA Project continues to promote knowledge sharing, capacity development, and community engagement to support a more resilient and sustainable future for Lao PDR.