The Integrated Water Resources Management and Ecosystem-based Adaptation (IWRM-EbA) project in Lao PDR is designed to strengthen climate resilience through the sustainable management of water resources and ecosystems. It is being implemented in vulnerable areas such as the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin and Luang Prabang City, where communities face increasing risks from floods, droughts, and environmental degradation. The project applies Ecosystem-based Adaptation and participatory approaches to ensure long-term benefits for both people and the environment.

Mr. Phingsaliao Sithiengthiam, the Project Coordinator, noted in an interview that, “Our project has implemented many activities and also supports gender equality, especially through the Community Conservation Agreement.” These agreements empower local communities, including women, to take an active role in conserving natural resources while enhancing social inclusion and sustainability.

In Nonsavang Village, one of the project’s target areas, a groundwater well was constructed to improve access to safe water. A village representative shared, “We are so proud to receive it because it helps us access clean water, and we will protect it by creating legislation and regulations to ensure sustainability in the future.” This reflects the strong community commitment to maintaining and safeguarding project outcomes.

These efforts are strengthening the region’s resilience, ensuring communities are better equipped to face climate challenges. Through this initiative, we are making significant strides in improving environmental and socio-economic conditions for the people of Luang Prabang and the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin.

Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient future!

The IWRM-EbA Project, led by UNDP Lao PDR in partnership with MONRE and supported by GEF, aims to enhance climate resilience and promote the sustainable management of land and water resources in Luang Prabang City and the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin. These regions are facing increasing risks from floods, droughts, and forest fires, which threaten both local communities and ecosystems. 🌍🔥💧

🎙️ Mr. Phingsaliao Sithiengtham, Project Coordinator, emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration, sharing: “The active involvement of all parties has been key to our success, from providing essential training for central and village-level staff to improving infrastructure for better resource management.”

These efforts are strengthening the region’s resilience, ensuring communities are better equipped to face climate challenges. Through this initiative, we are making significant strides in improving environmental and socio-economic conditions for the people of Luang Prabang and the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin.

Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient future! 💚

The IWRM-EbA Project, led by UNDP Lao PDR in partnership with MONRE and supported by GEF, aims to enhance climate resilience and promote the sustainable management of land and water resources in Luang Prabang City and the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin. These regions are facing increasing risks from floods, droughts, and forest fires, which threaten both local communities and ecosystems. 🌍🔥💧

🎙️ Mr. Phingsaliao Sithiengtham, Project Coordinator, emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration, sharing: “The active involvement of all parties has been key to our success, from providing essential training for central and village-level staff to improving infrastructure for better resource management.”

These efforts are strengthening the region’s resilience, ensuring communities are better equipped to face climate challenges. Through this initiative, we are making significant strides in improving environmental and socio-economic conditions for the people of Luang Prabang and the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin.

Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient future! 💚

The IWRM-EbA Project, led by UNDP Lao PDR in partnership with MONRE and supported by GEF, enhances climate resilience by integrating ecosystem conservation with sustainable water and land management. In Luang Prabang City and the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin, communities face increasing risks from floods, droughts, and forest fires . “Over the past 2-3 months, our village has faced 8 forest fires, creating hardships. However, we are grateful for the project’s training on prevention methods.” – Naluang’s Head of Village. Through local capacity building, improved water access, and sustainable agriculture, the project ensures long-term environmental protection and disaster risk reduction. Together, we can safeguard Laos' forests, water resources, and livelihoods

The IWRM-EbA Project is a collaborative initiative led by UNDP Lao PDR in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE), aimed at enhancing climate resilience and promoting sustainable water and land resource management in Laos' most vulnerable regions, including the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin and Savannakhet Province. These areas face increasing risks from environmental challenges like floods, droughts, and degradation, which pose serious threats to local communities, biodiversity, and ecosystems.

The project addresses the root causes of these challenges, such as unsustainable land use, deforestation, and the impacts of climate change, which continue to jeopardize water security and livelihoods. By focusing on strengthening governance, restoring degraded ecosystems, and implementing nature-based solutions, the project works to improve resilience against extreme weather events.

A key aspect of the project is protecting headwater forests and riparian zones, which are vital for maintaining water security, regulating floods, and preserving biodiversity. The project also emphasizes engaging local communities, raising awareness, and building capacity to ensure that environmental stewardship and sustainable practices are integrated into local policies and decision-making.

In Savannakhet Province, the project has made significant strides, with Ms. Phasuk Luangvichai, a technician in the Water Resources and Meteorology Sector at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, actively monitoring project activities. These include allocating land, filming community videos, and assessing the impacts of droughts and floods. Her work ensures that the project goals are met and activities are completed as planned.

Through this collaborative, community-driven, and science-based approach, the IWRM-EbA Project is working towards a sustainable and climate-resilient future for Laos.

The Integrated Water Resources Management and Ecosystem-based Adaptation (IWRM-EbA) Project is a transformative initiative designed to enhance community resilience, climate adaptation, and sustainable water management in Savannakhet province, Laos. By integrating IWRM and EbA principles, the project focuses on improving local water access, restoring ecosystems, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Water is essential for life, yet many rural communities face challenges in securing reliable and clean water sources for agriculture, livestock, and daily use. Through the project’s interventions, local farmers and residents now benefit from improved irrigation systems, water conservation techniques, and adaptive farming practices, ensuring better food security and economic stability.

In a recent interview, Mr. Yongthong Manivong, Field Project Coordinator, shared insights into the project's impact, stating:
"Since the launch of the project, communities in our target districts now have improved access to clean water for agriculture, cultivation, animal husbandry, and daily use—empowering them to build a more sustainable future."

Beyond water access, the project also focuses on capacity building and knowledge sharing by engaging with local stakeholders, government agencies, and development partners. Training sessions and awareness campaigns equip communities with the skills to manage water resources efficiently, mitigate the effects of climate change, and preserve the natural environment for future generations. Through collaborative efforts with partners and community members, the IWRM-EbA Project continues to drive long-term, sustainable change. By strengthening water resource governance and ecosystem restoration, we are helping local communities build resilience against climate variability while fostering environmental sustainability.