Giant tree in Nam Ha Protected Area in Laos' Luang Namtha province

Laos plans to implement an intensive reforestation program to reclaim and increase its forests to 70% of its total land area by 2020. The communist country's forest areas have declined steadily due to logging and slash and burn agriculture.

A 1992 survey indicated that forest areas which then covered 48% of the country's land were down to 41% in 2002, and still disappearing.

Reforested area in Laos

Officials acknowledge that illegal logging is the most serious problem contributing to forest disappearance, despite government restrictions. Authorities say they will mobilize local and private sector supports for the project.

Listen to our Laos Today report for more details in Lao.