The Urban Low Emissions Development Strategies (Urban LEDS) project, implemented by ICLEI and UN-Habitat in collaboration with the EU, supports Lao PDR’s efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and transition toward low-emission, resilient urban development. The project, initiated in 2018, contributes to Lao PDR’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, aiming for net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The project also aligns with the country’s Green Growth Strategy for 2030, enhancing the capacity of local governments in the cities Kaysone Phomvihane and Pakse to adopt sustainable urban planning practices. Through pilot projects as solar-powered streetlights and energy-efficient systems, the Urban LEDS project plays a crucial role in reducing GHG emissions and promoting green urban growth.
Enhance vertical and horizontal integration of climate action in support of national and local strategies and policies
Support and guide local governments in developing and approving Urban Low Emission Development Strategies
Promote international, regional, national, sub-national and local government cooperation on urban climate action
Lao PDR’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) emphasizes the importance of mainstreaming climate resilience and low-emission development into urban planning, with a focus on sustainable growth. Updated in 2021, the NDC sets ambitious goals for net-zero GHG emissions by 2050, leveraging key sectors like energy efficiency, transport, and land-use changes. The NDC also highlights the need for capacity building at the local level to enhance the resilience of urban infrastructure.
Kaysone Phomvihane and Pakse, two key cities under the Urban LEDS II project, are aligning their development plans with these national goals.
Kaysone Phomvihane, located in Savannakhet province, had GHG emissions in 2019 amounted to 483,000 tCO2e, with the energy sector contributing over 70%. As part of the Urban LEDS project, Kaysone Phomvihane is implementing strategies to reduce energy consumption by 10% per year and increase renewable energy use by 2030.
In Pakse, the capital of Champasak province, GHG emissions of 354,001 tCO2e have been measured in 2019, with a contribution of the energy sector of 63%. Pakse, home to 82,596 people across 42 villages, is implementing its 2020-2024 Socio-Economic Development Plan, focusing on green, sustainable urban development. Pakse’s key goals include enhancing institutional capacity, human resource development, and infrastructure, all while increasing renewable energy supply and protecting forest areas.
Through the Urban LEDS II project, both cities are adopting solar energy systems, improving waste management, and implementing climate adaptation measures like early warning systems and better drainage infrastructure
