Lao PDR, situated in the northern Mekong region, shares its borders with Thailand and Vietnam to the west, Cambodia to the south, and Myanmar and China to the north. It encompasses a vast land area of 23,680,000 hectares and is home to a population of approximately 5.68 million people.
The country experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Lao PDR receives a substantial annual rainfall ranging from 1300 to 3000 mm per year, contributing to its lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems.
Notably, peatlands were not previously known to exist within the territory of Laos. However, this changed with the initiation of the peatland conservation effort funded by the European Union through the SEApeat project. The implementation of this project is under the purview of the Department of Water Pollution Control.
Under the SEApeat project, comprehensive peatland assessments have been conducted across various regions of Laos. These assessments have covered at least six areas, namely Champasack, Attapeu, Savannakhet, Khamouane, Vientiane province, and Vientiane capital. Among the 15 locations surveyed, three distinct peatland areas have been identified. These peatlands are situated in Phapho, Nong Phou, and Nongphangdeng.
This newfound awareness of peatlands in Laos underscores the significance of ongoing conservation efforts and the need to understand the ecological, environmental, and sustainable management aspects of these unique ecosystems. As Laos continues to develop and prioritize conservation, these peatlands present both opportunities and challenges for biodiversity conservation and the well-being of local communities. The SEApeat project plays a vital role in advancing our knowledge of peatlands in Laos and fostering their preservation for future generations.
