VIENTIANE, May 31 (Xinhua) -- As World Environment Day approaches, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has delivered a message to the nation, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and collaboration to safeguard natural resources and protect the environment.
In his address, Sonexay highlighted the urgent need to combat deforestation, forest fires, and land degradation, which threaten ecosystems and human health while exacerbating the challenges of climate change, desertification, and natural disasters.
Recognizing the widespread issues of forest destruction and land degradation, Sonexay reaffirmed the government's commitment to increasing forest coverage to 70 percent of the country's area, according to a report from the local Pasaxon newspaper on Friday.
He stressed the importance of restoring soil and ecosystems to mitigate climate change impacts and protect biodiversity.
He also highlighted the necessity of balancing economic development with environmental conservation.
Sonexay further called on all sectors of society to prioritize the management and protection of natural resources. He urged individuals and organizations to adopt green and sustainable practices, including tree planting, waste reduction, and maintaining community cleanliness.
In 1972, the United Nations designated June 5 as World Environment Day to foster environmental awareness and prompt action. ■
