Laos PDR National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) Official Document - April 2009

With over 70% of Lao people depending on natural resources for their livelihoods and a heavy reliance of the national economy on the country’s natural resource base, the people of Lao PDR are highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Predicted increases in the intensity and frequency of extreme climatic events will affect agricultural production, water supply, household food security, and the dynamics of water- and vector-borne diseases. Consequences will be severe, particularly in rural areas where the effects of climate stresses are magnified and the ability of natural and livelihood systems to recuperate from extreme events are already low. 

Lao PDR’s NAPA report presents a comprehensive summary of an intensive consultative process that has involved a range of inclusive stakeholder discussions and analyses to identify priority adaptation needs and priority projects to address them. The NAPA is the first step on a long road to reduce climate change-induced vulnerabilities in Lao PDR, and UNDP in partnership with other development partners, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) will continue to support the government in accessing financing for dedicated follow-up projects.