National University of Laos – June 4-5, 2026

To support the global World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” GGGI Lao PDR brought the NATURA project to the National University of Laos with a focus on Nature-based Solutions (NbS). Through interactive booths and open discussions under the campaign hashtag #NowForClimate, GGGI spent two days listening to the youth. What became clear is that the next generation sees these ecosystems as a living shield that protects our cities from floods and keeps our communities healthy.

REAL STORIES, REAL CLIMATE IMPACT

For many students who move from the provinces to study in Vientiane, climate change isn’t a theory in a textbook; it is a lived reality. At the GGGI exhibition space, several students shared personal stories that connect environmental protection directly to human lives.

An “Eye-opening” Reality in Xam Neua: grew up in Houaphan Province thinking severe seasonal flooding was normal. “Everything clicked when a teacher explained the science behind it,” Sysavanh shared. “After losing a classmate to a tragic landslide, I realized I needed to study the environment and use my voice to raise awareness.” Today, he looks at NATURA’s work in restoring Nong Loup Ian as a practical way to keep urban communities safe.

The True Cost of Urban Sprawl: Mr. Loy Handlee Sylakham from Borikhamxay noted that Vientiane is getting hotter and losing green cover. After his friend, Noy, lost her father to a severe flood, the crisis became personal. “When we build over green spaces without planning and let trash block drains, the water has nowhere to go,” Loy said. “Protecting nature is also about food security. Sustainable farming and natural water systems help our families survive any crisis.”

WHY GREEN SOLUTIONS ARE WORTH CONSIDERING

A major focus of the event was introducing Nature-based Solutions (NbS)—the idea of using natural systems to solve environmental problems. The students quickly pointed out why working with nature is much better than relying solely on concrete walls.

Solutions That Give Back More: Miss Thipkaysone Sisounam highlighted a simple truth: “A concrete wall only blocks water. But Nature-based Solutions do so much more. A healthy, restored wetland reduces floods, cleans our air, creates homes for wildlife, and gives people a cool space to relax. Laos needs more environmental innovators who can fix waste management issues and heal our waterways at the same time.”

MOVING PAST “ONE-TIME” EVENTS

One of the most honest pieces of feedback came from Miss Vonemany Hanthavongsa, who reminded everyone that a two-day celebration isn’t enough.

“We see a lot of environmental campaigns and trainings where organizations show up, do it once, and then disappear. That doesn’t create lasting change,” Vonemany pointed out candidly. “If we want people to change their habits, we need continuous activities, long-term monitoring, and strong policy support. Protecting nature requires the solidarity of everyone in society.”

A 20-YEAR VISION FOR A GREENER LAOS

The students left a clear message for Lao decision-makers and urban planners: Clean up and protect vital natural water systems like Urban Wetlands that use our cultural respect and beliefs to protect local ecosystems, and ensure green spaces are preserved inside our universities. Treat our forests and wetlands as valuable national assets.

When asked what they want to see in 20 years, every student described a Laos that is cooler, cleaner, and greener. Through collaboration, continuous education, and community support, GGGI and the NATURA project are committed to walking alongside these youth to make that vision a reality.

This story was developed through the NATURA Project, supported by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) in partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and the Government of Lao PDR.

Download the story click: https://gggi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/06.-NATURA-Monthly-story_June-2026.pdf

Learn more about NATURA project: https://gggi.org/project/nature-based-solutions-for-urban-adaptation-in-lao-pdr-natura-phase-i/