Laos

Country in Asia

In brief

Forest cover: 56.6% (2024). World rank 41 of 213; in Asia, 8 of 47. Protected areas: 18.8% (2025). World rank 64 of 213 (1 = best); in Asia, 10 of 48. Renewable fresh water, m³ per person: 25,188 (2022). World rank 25 of 183; in Asia, 2 of 47. From 2015 to 2025: protected areas 16.7% → 18.8%.

Air and emissions

Air pollution PM2.5, µg/m³: 26 2023
CO₂ emissions, tonnes per person: 3.4 2024
All greenhouse gases, tonnes CO₂e per person: 5.4 2024

Nature and water

Forest cover: 56.6% 2024
Protected areas: 18.8% 2025
Renewable fresh water, m³ per person: 25,188 2022
Water stress, share of fresh water withdrawn: 4.8% 2022