In recent years, Laos has made various efforts to conserve the environment and protect nature, one of the country's wealth. One such effort is the "TRASH Idol" association in Luang Prabang, which works for waste management and ecology in the city and its region. 

Established in 2014, the "TRASH Idol" association regularly organizes clean-up operations in Luang Prabang, where volunteers gather to collect waste in the city, especially after special events such as the Lao New Year, the boat racing festival, or during the Luang Prabang half-marathon.

Raising Awareness

Supported by the Lao Urban Development Authority, the organization aims to raise awareness of environmental issues, educate youth and citizens to act positively on ecology, and ultimately make Luang Prabang a "clean and green" city for all.

Other Initiatives

In addition to awareness campaigns, the association also trains volunteers and organizes environmentally friendly initiatives, including monthly city clean-ups and recycling activities, to promote environmental sustainability.

These clean-up days highlight the fact that small actions can help protect nature. For example, a garbage collection session along the Mekong River, which lasted less than half an hour, resulted in the collection of around four bags full of garbage, such as plastic bottles, food packaging,and baby diapers.

Actions and Projects

On the last Sunday of each month, volunteers from schools, hotels, tourist businesses, and individuals gather to clean up a specific area of Luang Prabang. 

The group has also worked with the Luang Prabang Urban Office for clean-up actions on the last Saturday of each month. Each time, more than 50 volunteers would gather to help.

Recently, on October 30, 2022, "Trash Idol" gathered volunteers from Xayyadeth College and the "Maison Souvannaphoum" hotel to collect and sort waste during the Luang Prabang Half Marathon.