Environment

The Photographer Who Speaks for Laos’ Forests

In the forests of Laos, observation comes before words for Souksamlan “Toun” Laladeth. That idea inspired the title of his debut visual anthology, Where the Forests Have No Words, officially launched on 5 October in Vientiane*.* "People call me a conservation and nature photographer. But really, I'm just a simple person,...

Slope Collapse Hits Workers’ Camp at Pak Beng Hydropower Project in Northern Laos, No Casualties Reported

A section of hillside collapsed beneath a workers’ residential camp at the Pak Beng...

Nam Theun 2 Fund Approves LAK 343 Million for Forest Restoration in Khammouane

The Nam Theun 2 Development Fund approved more than LAK 343 million (USD 15,300)...

Xaysomboun Identifies Four Companies Over Unauthorized Gold Mining

Authorities in Xaysomboun Province have identified four companies allegedly involved in unauthorized alluvial gold...

Vietnam-Backed Bauxite Project in Laos Moves Toward 2028 Production

A major bauxite project in southern Laos is moving closer to production, with Lao...

Laos plans to open its first aquarium in Vientiane

Laos is moving forward with plans to develop its first aquarium, following the signing of an agreement to study the project’s feasibility in Vientiane. The...

Air Pollution, Extreme Heat Raise Health Concerns Across Laos

Laos is facing a double challenge as hazardous air pollution coincides with a period of extreme heat, prompting authorities to issue nationwide health warnings. Air...

Illegal Fuel Factory Shut Down in Vientiane as Sulfur Levels Surpasses Standard

Authorities have dismantled an unlicensed fuel operation in Vientiane Capital after inspectors discovered it was producing fuel from plastic waste and used engine oil,...

Wild Elephant Raids Isan Restaurant Multiple Times in Thailand

A wild elephant in Thailand has repeatedly raided a popular Isan restaurant near Khao Yai National Park, with three incidents reported within less than...

Over 16,000 Fire Hotspots Recorded Nationwide as PM 2.5 Blankets Laos

Laos recorded 16,395 fire hotspots in the first three months of 2026, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), producing PM 2.5...

Attapeu Cracks Down on Illegal Gold Mining, Fishing

Authorities in Attapeu Province announced the results of two enforcement operations carried out from 16 to 24 February in Xaysettha district, targeting illegal gold...