Phouphieng Bolaven Upstream in the district of Thataeng, Xekong REDD+ projects with the objective to protect forest areas from illegal logging and encroachments and to conserve biodiversity and floral and faunal habitats. Initial investigations have revealed that considerable deforestation and forest degradation is currently taking place in the project area. They are primarily caused by illegal logging and clearing of forest lands for agriculture expansion.

In addition, the threat of seasonal forest fires triggered by both natural and manmade causes also aggravate the forest destruction. The current surveillance and forest protection measures enforced by the government are insufficient to address these and more resources and latest technology is required to mitigate them effectively in the Southern region of Lao PDR covering an area of 2,066 Ha and consisting of 5 villages.

The project activities can properly reduce the deforestation rate by 10% in year one compared to the historical deforestation rate and gradually increasing to 70% within 10 years of the project period. After year 10, it is assumed the effectiveness index will remain at 70%. 

Note : The eligible area for REDD must have been forest for  10 years (stable forest) prior to the project start date, corresponding to the period of 2011-2021