EU Green Diplomacy Week 2026 launched in Lao PDR to promote action towards sustainable and plastic-free communities

Vientiane, Lao PDR, 2 October 2026 – The European Union today launched the EU Green Diplomacy Week 2026 in Lao PDR with the opening of the “Sustainable and Inclusive Plastic-Free Communities” Photo Exhibition at Parkson Mall in Vientiane. The exhibition highlights local initiatives and community efforts to address plastic pollution and promote more sustainable lifestyles across Lao PDR.

The EU Green Diplomacy Week is an annual initiative that brings together partners, communities and citizens to promote dialogue, cooperation and action on climate and environmental challenges. This year’s activities in Lao PDR focus on the urgent issue of plastic pollution and showcase how individuals and communities can contribute to building a cleaner and greener future.

“Plastic pollution is one of the major environmental challenges of our time. It affects ecosystems, human health and livelihoods, and its impacts are felt in communities across Lao PDR,” said Mr. Mark Gallagher, EU Ambassador to Lao PDR. “Through this exhibition, we want to highlight the many inspiring examples of people across the country who are taking action, finding creative solutions and demonstrating that change is possible.”

The exhibition showcases the 30 best photographs selected from a nationwide photo competition organised under the theme “Sustainable and Inclusive Plastic-Free Communities.” The photographs capture examples of young people, communities, businesses and individuals taking action to reduce plastic waste, keep their surroundings clean and encourage more sustainable practices. During the opening ceremony, photographers received special prizes for their contributions.

The EU is committed to supporting the transition towards a circular economy and more sustainable production and consumption patterns, both globally and in Lao PDR. The EU continues to support environmental action and the transition towards a circular economy in Lao PDR through several initiatives, including:

• EMP-ACT (Empowering to Act for Circular Transition in Plastics in Lao PDR), supporting efforts to reduce single-use plastic consumption;
• Lasting Laos, promoting sustainable consumption and production, circular economy approaches and decent work practices in the tourism value chain;
• SCP Lao (Sustainable Consumption and Production in Lao PDR), working with civil society organisations, youth and women’s associations, and local authorities to translate circular economy principles into practical action.

As part of EU Green Diplomacy Week, visitors are invited to join activities promoting sustainable lifestyles, including an upcycling craft workshop and the “Circle of Change” activity, which encourages the exchange and reuse of pre-loved items.

The EU is also inviting citizens across Lao PDR to participate in the “Green Steps Challenge”, a nationwide walking and running campaign promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness of action against plastic pollution.

The EU is also inviting citizens across Lao PDR to participate in the “Green Steps Challenge”, a nationwide walking and running campaign promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness of action against plastic pollution.

The “Sustainable and Inclusive Plastic-Free Communities” Photo Exhibition is open to the public at Parkson Mall, Underground Floor from 2 to 8 October 2026.