Networking Session on Plastics Innovation in ASEAN

 

JUNE 2024

Vientiane, Lao PDR, 24 June 2024: The SEA-MaP Regional Project proudly supported a networking session hosted by the Government of Lao PDR to showcase plastics innovation in ASEAN. The session was attended by the ASEAN Member States, local innovators, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community groups, dialogue and development partners, the ASEAN Secretariat, the SEA-MaP PMU and RISU, and the World Bank. The Networking Session was held in conjunction with the 25th  Meeting of the ASEAN Working Group on Coastal and Marine Environment (AWGCME).

The session was enriched by the unique contributions of local innovators from Lao PDR, namely Recycle Art, Nature Ware, and Savanir. Their presentations showcased creative initiatives that champion community empowerment and explore alternative solutions for reducing plastic waste. Participants also gained insights into regional initiatives that support innovators across the region, such as the SEA-MaP Regional Platform for Innovation and Investments, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Lao PDR’s Ending Plastic Pollution Innovation Challenge (EPPIC), and the ASEAN Blue Innovation Challenge.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Oudomsack Philavong, Director-General of the Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) of Lao PDR, highlighted that “a conducive policy landscape, capacity building support, strengthening partnerships, as well as leveraging financing and investments remain some of the key factors to support the scaling up of plastics innovation in the ASEAN region.” He stressed that these endeavours require not just support but the strong and continued commitment of both the public and private sectors to make a real difference in addressing plastic pollution.

The evening continued with a lively networking session, where participants actively engaged with each other, cultivating connections and exploring potential collaborations. This event provided a valuable platform for fostering partnerships and advancing innovative solutions to the pressing challenge of plastic pollution.