Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR – May 14, 2026,

When looking at an undeveloped urban wetland, a common misconception is to see it as “vacant” space, a blank slate waiting for concrete. But as cities face growing climate pressures, a critical lesson is emerging from the field: urban wetlands are not idle spaces. They are an active infrastructure.

During a recent visit to the NATURA project site in Lao PDR, Marcel Silvius, Deputy Regional Director for GGGI Asia and Wetland expert, cut straight to the heart of this issue, which is balancing the natural potential of the site with a realistic look at the pressures it faces.

A RACE AGAINST THE CONCRETE CLOCK

Changing a mindset takes time, but these ecosystems are surviving on a tight schedule. Encroachment, pollution, and rapid urban expansion are constant, active pressures on the ground. Marcel noted that while seeing the wetland’s natural vitality today “fills me with hope and optimism,” project intervention alone cannot carry the full weight of long-term preservation. A project cannot operate in a vacuum; true urban resilience requires structural alignment. “Time is not on our side,” Marcel stated. “Protecting places like this will require clear policies, decisive government action, and a shared commitment.”

Marcel Silvius engaged with a local resident and documented the natural vitality at Nong Loup Ian wetland.

INVESTING IN ACTIVE INFRASTRUCTURE

To manage long-term expectations, our first task isn’t building physical infrastructure, it is changing how these ecosystems are valued. If protected and managed correctly within proper policy frameworks, these natural sponges protect neighborhoods from flash floods and support local livelihoods completely free of charge. As we look toward the foundational work ahead for the NATURA project through 2029, Marcel shared a definitive reminder of why shifting this public and political perception matters so deeply:

“They can reduce the risks of flooding, support a thriving local economy, serve as incredible spaces for education, and bring biodiversity to people’s doorsteps. As we move forward with NATURA, we should keep in mind that protecting urban wetlands is not only about conservation, it is about investing in safer, more resilient, and more livable communities.”

Fishing activities happening in urban wetland, Nam ping.

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.

learn more about the project: Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Adaptation in Lao PDR (NATURA) Phase I — Global Green Growth Institute

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