Environmental Management Measures and Current Practices in Solid Waste Management: A Case Study from Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Journal of GMS Development Studies, Vol. 2, pp. 69-89

Abstract

This study identifies and assesses the general practices and environmental measures used in solid waste management in Vientiane, including market and nonmarket instruments as well as public education and training programs (moral suasion). It offers policy recommendations to concerned authorities including effective instruments to minimize the polluting behavior of individuals and industries and to recover the cost of pollution in the city. Interviews with key stakeholders, group discussions with city residents, and observations of existing practices in Vientiane revealed the following problems: weak financial status; insufficient number of staff and facilities; open burning of waste without segregation; use of open dumpsites that pose health and environmental risks; dumping of waste on the bank and in the tributaries of the Mekong River; and low awareness about solid waste management among residents. The problems are further compounded by a high rate of rural-urban migration, the uncontrolled growth of industry and businesses as well as recent changes in the consumption patterns of residents. To improve solid waste management in Vientiane, a combination of market-based and persuasive instruments is recommended. The results of the study may be used by policy makers and agencies in Vientiane as well as by other small cities in the Greater Mekong Subregion.