Vientiane, 4 December 2024 – The Proliferation of Sustainable Consumption and Production in Asia – the Next 5 Countries (SCP Outreach) project underscores the importance of ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns as key solutions for improving the efficient use of natural resources while minimising waste and pollution. The SCP Outreach project also emphasises the critical role of standards and consumer information in driving the transformation towards sustainability, and offers significant contributions to achieving the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Government of Lao PDR reaffirms its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by actively promoting eco-friendly goods and services—a fundamental pillar of Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP). This commitment is strongly reflected in the 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021–2025), the National Green Growth Strategy, the SCP Roadmap 2022-2025, and the Green Public Procurement Action Plan 2023-2025, which highlight the country’s dedication to a sustainable development pathway.

With the support of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection (BMUV) through the SCP Outreach in Asia project, the Government of Lao PDR has made significant strides in advancing the Green Public Procurement (GPP) Policy and its implementation as a key pillar under SDG 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. Additionally, the country is in the initial stages of developing an ecolabelling scheme known as the ‘Lao Green Label’, further reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and green growth.

To celebrate these key achievements, the Ministry of Nature Resources and Environment of Lao PDR and GIZ organised the national seminar on 4 December 2024.

In his welcoming address, Sounadeth Soukchaleun, the Deputy Director General of Planning and Finance Department MONRE Lao PDR, said: “Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) serves as a pivotal policy of Lao PDR in enhancing resource utilisation efficiency across entire value chains, systematically reducing waste generation to protect the country’s natural resource base and minimise environmental impacts”. Through the SCP Outreach project, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) has collaborated closely with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce to advance the successful implementation of SCP, in particular Green Public Procurement (GPP) and an ecolabelling scheme. Over four years of dedicated support, Laos has gained valuable knowledge and experience, drawing not only from Germany but also from other advanced countries such as Thailand, Japan and Malaysia. This international collaboration has been a key factor in the success of these initiatives.

Dr. Ulf Jaekel, Head of Division T III 2 “European and International Adaptation to Climate Change”, under the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) said in his welcoming address: “Nowadays, climate change and environmental degradation are urgent global challenges, action is needed from all sectors—governments included. Government procurement is a powerful tool in shaping market structures and driving sustainability. It accounts for a significant portion of the global economy, covering a wide range of goods and services, from large infrastructure projects to everyday office supplies. With such a scale, government purchasing decisions have the potential to influence industries, encourage responsible business practices, and accelerate the shift towards sustainability”.

The German Government commends the efforts of the Government of Lao PDR in advancing Green Public Procurement (GPP) and promoting eco-friendly products, marking a significant move towards sustainability, Lao PDR is tackling critical issues such as resource and energy efficiency, waste and emission reduction. Through GPP, Lao PDR is making meaningful strides in fostering a greener economy and demonstrating that government leadership can drive transformative change in both the public and private sectors.