VIENTIANE, Jun 1 (NNN-KPL) – As World Environment Day approaches, Lao Prime Minister, Sonexay Siphandone, delivered a message to the nation, emphasising the need for heightened awareness and collaboration to safeguard natural resources and protect the environment.
In his address, Sonexay highlighted the urgent need to combat deforestation, forest fires, and land degradation, which threaten ecosystems and human health, while exacerbating the challenges of climate change, desertification, and natural disasters.
Recognising the widespread issues of forest destruction and land degradation, Sonexay reaffirmed the government’s commitment, to increasing forest coverage to 70 percent of the country’s area, according to a report from the local Pasaxon newspaper, yesterday.
He stressed the importance of restoring soil and ecosystems to mitigate climate change impacts and protect biodiversity.
He also highlighted the necessity of balancing economic development with environmental conservation.
Sonexay further called on all sectors of society to prioritise the management and protection of natural resources. He urged individuals and organisations to adopt green and sustainable practices, including tree planting, waste reduction, and maintaining community cleanliness.
In 1972, the United Nations designated Jun 5 as World Environment Day, to foster environmental awareness and prompt action.– NNN-KPL
