Spotlight Shines on Vang Vieng's SAELAO: Joleen Lunjew recently published a feature article, "Making a Difference", on Malaysia's Star Online site about SAELAO's efforts to create a sustainable future for a village near Vang Vieng. SAELAO is a community-based, non-profit organization working in Ban Nathong, located about 7 km from Vang Vieng Town and close to Poukham Cave and Blue Lagoon, two popular sites for tourists. Ms Lunjew tells how Sengkeo "Bob" Frichitthavong, who returned to Vang Vieng after 12 years in Canada, saw massive changes to the environment, and wanted to preserve what remained. Along with Frenchwoman, Anaïs Maumet, he established SAELAO in 2008 to "address the problem of ecological imbalance through a series of sustainable projects," Ms Lunjew writes. "Top on their list is educating the locals on environmental issues and showing how they can make a difference." Much of the activities held in the community center are educational: English lessons, computer classes, a library, and presentations on sustainability. SAELAO reduces firewood consumption through rocket stoves that require a fraction of the wood normally needed. They are also building a biogas facility that converts cow manure into fuel. Other projects include a water-recycling system and storage containers made with natural materials like banana leaves and clay. SAELAO's restaurant uses organic produce and free-range livestock to prepare traditional Laos dishes and fruit shakes, making it an excellent dining and resting spot for visitors heading to the tourist sites. The community centre will soon house information on local handicrafts and showcase traditional weaving techniques to tourists. Bob and his wife also run Sengkeo Guesthouse in the Vang Vieng Town, which contributes 20 per cent of its profits to the project. To download the entire article. click here. |
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