Impact of climate change on water and wetland resources in Mekong river basin : directions for preparedness and action. Background paper
IUCN, Regional Co-ordination Office for South and Southeast Asia
An inventory of wetlands of the Lao P.D.R.
Wetlands play a very important role in the lives of the people of Lao PDR. The majority of the population of 4.1 million live in the wetland rich Mekong basin and are dependent on wetlands for subsistence and income generation. In addition to freshwater fish - the principal source of animal protein in the country - a wide range of other wetland products are utilised. The waters of the Mekong and its tributaries are also significant for hydro-power generation and irrigation capacity. This publication is a compilation of up-to-date information on each wetland in the country.