GMS
Consultation Workshop on GMS Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Program (SAFSP)
GMS Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Program (SAFSP): The proposed TA will build on accomplishments of the two phases of the Core Agriculture Support Program and support the implementation of Strategy for Promoting Safe and Environment-Friendly Agro-Based Value Chains in the GMS and Siem Reap Action Plan, which was endorsed by the GMS Agr...
GMS Working Group on Environment 24th Annual Meeting
The 24th Annual Meeting of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Working Group (WG) on Environment reviewed the achievements of the GMS Core Environment Program Phase II and discussed the way forward. WGE AM-24 was hosted by the People’s Republic of China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) with support from ADB through the GMS Environment ...
Consultation Workshop on GMS Climate Change and Environment Sustainability Program (CCESP)
Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Climate Change and Environment Sustainability Program (CCESP): The proposed knowledge and support technical assistance (TA) on CCESP will build on the key achievements of two phases of the Core Environment Program and support the implementation of the GMS Core Environment Program Strategic Framework and Action Plan 2018-2022, which was endorsed at the Fifth GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting held in 2018. The CCESP will focus on creating enabling conditions to leverage additional investment in priority areas such as (i) green technologies and sustainable infrastructure; (ii) natural resources and ecosystem services; and (iii) green growth, climate resilience and disaster risk management.
Digital Technologies for Advancing Food Security, Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability
To assess current status of application of digital technologies in four areas:
1.Sustainable agriculture
2.Food traceability
3.Climate action (mitigation and adaptation)
4.Environmental sustainability
To solicit views from the ...
Strategic Environmental Assessments for Power Sector Planning in the GMS
This publication shows how strategic environmental assessments can help the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries create sustainable national power development plans.
GMS Core Environment Program, 2018-2023 brochure
This brochure overviews the achievements of the GMS Core Environment Program during 2012-2018 and introduces its new 5-year strategy and action plan.
GMS Environmental Performance Assessment, 2006-2016
This report examines the environmental situation in the Greater Mekong Subregion based on a 10-year environmental performance assessment.
Innovations in Land Use Planning in the GMS
Drawing on a decade of CEP experience, this brief provides an overview of land use planning challenges and opportunities in the subregion.
Greater Mekong Subregion Core Environment Program - 10 Years of Cooperation
This publication highlights how the Greater Mekong Subregion Core Environment Program (CEP) has contributed to sustainable development over the last decade.
Projecting Industrial Pollution in the GMS
This brief summarizes the diverse pollutants and their sources that are harming the natural environment and people’s well-being in the Greater Mekong Subregion. It looks at how the Industrial Pollution Projection System (IPPS) has been used in the subregion to help identify current and future pollution risks, and makes recommendations for its future application.
Watershed Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment Guidelines
These guidelines aim to help GMS climate change practitioners and planners to embrace more robust, participatory, and integrated watershed planning processes that anticipate climate change vulnerabilities and identify opportunities to minimize them. The guidelines introduce the basic concepts of watershed vulnerability and adaptation assessments (W-VAAs), key principles and steps to conduct them, and overviews the tools that can be used.
Strategy for Promoting Safe and Environment-Friendly Agro-Based Value Chains in the Greater Mekong Subregion and Siem Reap Action Plan, 2018-2022
This report discusses opportunities for safe and environment-friendly agriculture products in the Greater Mekong Subregion and highlights the Siem Reap Action Plan, 2018–2022.
The GMS Core Environment Program Strategy and Action Plan, 2018-2022
This publication outlines the strategic priorities and actions for the third phase of the GMS Core Environment Program, from 2018-2022. It was endorsed by environment leaders at the 5th GMS Environment Ministers' Meeting on 1 February 2018.
Video: Environmental Cooperation in the GMS
Government and development partners talk about the importance of regional environmental cooperation in the Greater Mekong Subregion, with a focus on the GMS Core Environment Program. The film was launched at the Fifth GMS Environment Ministers' Meeting in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on 1 February 2018.
EMM-5 (Formal Meeting of Ministers)
Environment ministers from the six GMS countries gathered in Chiang Mai, Thailand on 1 February 2018 to review the Core Environment Program’s (CEP) progress and achievements and endorse its new Strategic Framework and Action Plan, 2018-2022.
Development Partners' Roundtable
On 31 Jan, regional development partners discussed potential areas of collaboration under the Core Environment Program’s Strategic Framework and Action Plan, 2018–2022 and drafted statements to present to enviroment leaders at the 5th GMS Environment Ministers' Meeting.
Fifth GMS Environment Ministers' Meeting
Every 3 years the environment ministers from the six Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries gather to review progress and set the agenda for environmental cooperation in the subregion under the GMS Economic Cooperation Program.
Forum on Inclusive Green Growth: Investing for a Sustainable Future - 30-31 January
The forum aimed to identify barriers and opportunities, including for financing and technologies, to scale up green growth approaches in the GMS.
GMS Working Group on Environment 23rd Annual Meeting
The 23rd Annual Meeting of the GMS Working Group on Environment reviewed Core Environment Program achievements and challenges during 2016 and discuss progress and priorities for CEP Phase III planning.
Green Growth in the GMS: Best Practices
This workshop brought together environment and other GMS officials with international experts to explore green growth opportunities in the subregion.
Topics included:
- Green Growth Opportunities in the GMS: Setting the Context
- Environmental Technological Innovation
- Promoting a Transition Toward a Green Economy
- Financial Innovation
The ...
13th Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
At this Roundtable, the edited version of the Watershed-scale Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment guidelines will be reviewed.
Building Capacity for Land Use Change Modeling (2014–2017)
Land use is constantly changing in the Greater Mekong Subregion. At the same time, land use planning processes are often poorly informed, risking decisions that may lead to social and environmental costs that outweigh intended benefits.
GMS Transboundary Biodiversity Landscape Management Knowledge Sharing Event
Environment officials from the six GMS countries met in Jinghong, PRC, to share biodiversity conservation experiences and to plan initiatives for increased cooperation in transboundary areas.
Discover GMS: Asia’s Natural Hub - THAIFEX World of Food Asia 2017
Under the theme "Discover GMS - Asia’s Natural Hub," the Greater Mekong Subregion Working Group on Agriculture is organizing a pavilion, chef shows, coffee and tea demonstrations, and two policy forum events at THAIFEX-World of Food Asia 2017.
International Forum on Sustainable Infrastructure: Integrating Climate Resilience and Natural Capital into Transport Infrastructure Planning and Design
A forum for decision makers and experts to deliberate and draft guiding principles for planning, designing and financing climate-resilient and ecologically sound transport infrastructure.
Green Growth in the GMS: Trends and Priorities
This two-day workshop was the first in a series of three events that will feed into the 5th GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled for early 2018.
Asia-Pacific Sustainable Development Goals Outlook
Examining the SDGs goal by goal shows that governments will confront many common and fundamental challenges as they work to advance sustainable development.
Workshop: GMS Land-Use Change Modeling Network
This workshop brought together members of the GMS land-use change modeling network to share project results and develop proposals for future work.
ADB Working Paper: Green Growth Opportunities for Asia
This ADB Working Paper assesses the low-carbon economy in Asia: how large it is today and how well it will fare in the future.
ADB - Nature-Based Solutions for Building Resilience in Towns and Cities: Case Studies from the Greater Mekong Subregion
Green infrastructure can play a significant role in offsetting losses from climate-related disasters and contribute to building resilience through rehabilitation and expansion of natural ecosystems within built areas.
The Twelfth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
With the first joint knowledge product on Watershed-scale Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment guidelines now finalized, this 12th Roundtable event will discuss a dissemination plan and capacity building plan.
Regional Knowledge Sharing Event on Transboundary Biodiversity Landscape Management in the GMS
Senior environment and forestry officials from Yunnan and Guangxi met with representatives from the other five GMS countries to exchange experiences and lessons from biodiversity conservation work in transboundary landscapes.
ADB: Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific 2016
The Key Indicators presents key statistics on development issues concerning Asia and the Pacific and includes the latest available economic, financial, social, and environmental indicators for ADB's 48 region...
5th ASEAN Chief Justices’ Roundtable on Environment: ASEAN Judicial Cooperation on the Environment - The Proceedings
The Fifth Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chief Justices’ Roundtable on Environment provided a platform for leaders of ASEAN judiciaries to discuss, share experiences, and decide on how to further strengthen collective action in addressing transboundary environmental challenges.
Asian Development Outlook 2016 Update: Meeting the Low-Carbon Growth Challenge
Asian policy makers are willing partners in the global effort against climate change. But the region can and must go beyond current national pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and hold global warming short of catastrophe.
ADB: Greater Mekong Subregion Statistics on Growth, Infrastructure, and Trade
This ADB publication provides a snapshot of the GMS subregion's performance from 1992-2014, highlighting growth in output and merchandise trade, developments in ICT, and trends in subregional integration.
13th Annual Meeting of the GMS Working Group on Agriculture
The 13th Annual Meeting of the GMS Working Group on Agriculture (WGA AM-13) is hosted by Viet Nam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
22nd Annual Meeting of the GMS Working Group on Environment
This 22nd Annual Meeting of the GMS Working Group on Environment (WGE AM-22) was hosted by Viet Nam’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in cooperation with the GMS Environment Operations Center (EOC).
11th Climate Change Roundtable Meeting
Natural Capital and the Rule of Law: Proceedings of the ADB Second Asian Judges Symposium on Environment 2013
This publication captures the proceedings of the Second Asian Judges Symposium: "Natural Capital and the Rule of Law" held 3–5 December 2013 in Manila, the Philippines.
Following the success of ...
ADB: 2015 Clean Energy Investments: Project Summaries
This report summarizes the $2.47 billion of investments in clean energy made by ADB in 2015, condensing information from project databases and formal reports in an easy-to-reference format.
 ...
ADB: GMS Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan: Second Progress Report
This second progress report provides the status of the Greater Mekong Subregion Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan as of 31 December 2015, for all sectors, both investment and techn...
IAIA Session: SEA Experience from the GMS
The GMS Core Environment Program hosted a session on strategic environmental assessment (SEA) at the 36th Annual Conference of International Association of Impact Assessment.
ADB: GMS e-Newsletter - Vol.10 Issue 1
This latest GMS e-Newsletter features updates from the GMS Economic Cooperation Program for the period October 2015 to April 2016.
ASEAN-ADB Cooperation Toward the ASEAN Community
For the past 5 decades, ASEAN and ADB have both supported poverty reduction, sustainable development, and regional cooperation and integration in Southeast Asia. This ADB publication provides an overvi...
The Tenth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the Greater Mekong Subregion
Partners at the 10th Roundtable reviewed their recently drafted guidelines for watershed/landscape-scale vulnerability and adaptation assessments. They also discussed how the guidelines could be effectively disseminated, including the potential of developing training modules.
GMS Transport and Trade Facilitation Action Program Newsletter – Jan-Oct 2015
The Transport and Trade Facilitation Action Program for the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) provides advisory support and capacity building tofacilitate cross-border transport and trade in the GMS. Please download the newsletter below for updates about the program’s latest events, news, and knowledge products.
Ecosystem valuation training in the GMS
A major challenge in promoting investments in natural capital is to produce solid evidence on the economic value of ecosystem services and ensure this evidence informs development planning and investment decisions.
10th Semi-Annual Meeting of the Working Group on Environment
Hosted by Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the 10th Semi-Annual Meeting of the GMS Working Group on Environment (WGE) brought together WGE members with representatives from the Asian Development Bank and development partners to review implementation progress of the Core Environment Program and to discuss key priorities.
Investing in Natural Capital for a Sustainable Future in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This report aims to demonstrate the compelling need to increase investments in natural capital in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and identifies actions now being taken regionally and nationally to ...
The Ninth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
During the Ninth Roundtable meeting, partners reviewed draft chapters of the watershed and landscape-scale vulnerability and adaptation assessment guidelines, which will become a joint knowledge product produced by the partners.
ADB Video: From Upstream to Downstream, Thailand Responds to Climate Change
A new approach to integrated water resource management based on community participation is tapping into local knowledge to protect Thailand's territory from the increasingly severe flooding driven by climate change.
GMS e-Updates- March to September 2015
This GMS E-updates provides information about key activities and major developments in the GMS as the six countries sharing the Mekong River strive to accelerate the region's development.
Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan - First Progress Report
This ADB report provides the status of the overall Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan as of 30 June 2015, for all sectors, both investment and technical assistance projects.
The Greater...
Economic Analysis of Climate-Proofing Investment Projects
This ADB report describes the conduct of the cost-benefit analysis of climate proofing investment projects. An important message is that the presence of uncertainty about climate change does not invali...
Experience Mekong Tourism Marketing Strategy & Action Plan 2015-2020
This GMS Tourism Marketing Strategy and Action Plan 2015-2020 deliberately aligns with GMS member countries’ sharedobjectives to develop thematic multicountry tour programs and promotesecondary d...
Greater Mekong Subregion Urban Development Strategic Framework 2015–2022
This ADB report features Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Urban Development Strategic Framework, 2015–2022. It sets out a broad framework to encourage and facilitate a coordinated approach to the d...
The Eighth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
Building on the seventh roundtable held in June, partners at this eighth roundtable discussed analytical tools for assessing basin-scale climate change vulnerability and looked at the processes involved and lessons learnt from application in the GMS.
Training of Trainers on Land Use Change Modeling
Under CEP’s ‘Building Capacity for Land Use Change Modeling activity,’ a training of trainers program on land use change modeling will be delivered in each of the six GMS countries during August–October.
Renewable Energy Developments and Potential for the Greater Mekong Subregion
This ADB report was produced under the technical assistance project Promoting Renewable Energy, CleanFuels, and Energy Efficiency in the Greater Mekong Subregion (TA 7679). It focused on renewable ener...
Core Environment Program Technical Workshop
Building on discussions held during the GMS Working Group on Environment 21st Annual Meeting, this workshop aims to map out the future of the Core Environment Program and Environment Operations Center.
Developing Inclusive and Sustainable Agricultural Value Chains in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This knowledge event, jointly held by the GMS Working Groups on Environment and Agriculture, explored means to develop more inclusive and sustainable agricultural value chains in the GMS.
Working Group on Environment: 21st Annual Meeting
Hosted by Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the 21st Annual Meeting of the Working Group on Environment (WGE) brought together WGE members with representatives from the Asian Development Bank and development partners to review implementation progress of the Core Environment Program implementation and to discuss key priorities.
The Seventh Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change in the GMS
At this seventh roundtable, partners continued deliberations initiated at the sixth roundtable in April. These included joint visioning to specify the long-term goals of the roundtable and identifying collaborative activities arising from the Watershed Adaptation to Climate Change (WACC) Project.
The Sixth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
The CEP-supported Roundtable meetings have become a platform for development organizations with active adaptation programs in the GMS to share knowledge, brainstorm approaches, and engage in an ongoing dialogue.
Strategic Environmental Assessment in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This brief promotes the value of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) to assist GMS decision makers to more effectively balance economic, social, and environmental considerations early in developme...
Green Freight in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This brief summarizes lessons learned from green freight feasibility analyses conducted under the GMS Core Environment Program between 2010 and 2014. It presents five key messages that policymakers and...
Ecosystem Based Approaches to Address Climate Change Challenges in the Greater Mekong Subregion
The brief summarizes the current state of GMS knowledge and experience on ecosystem-based approaches. It draws upon work of the GMS Core Environment Program and partner institutions, including findings...
ADB Video: Regional Cooperation and Environmental Sustainability
Much economic growth in Asia and the Pacific has been fueled by unsustainable use of natural resources. While this has led to increased prosperity, it has also created immense pressure on natural capital. This video shines a light on regional cooperation programs that ADB has sponsored or lent weight to such as the Greater Mekong Subregion Core Environment Program and the Heart of Borneo and Coral Triangle initiatives.
GMS e-Updates-September 2014 to February 2015
This ADB e-news product captures the highlights of a number of key events in the GMS Program related to environment, transport, power, and labor.
Space Technology and Geographic Information Systems Applications in ADB Projects
Space technology and geographic information systems (GIS) have now become valuable tools in helpingdevelopment organizations achieve their missions. They can be applied to various development sectorsincluding agriculture, rural development, and food security; education; energy; environment; climatechange; health; pubic management and governance (especially disaster risk management); transport; urbandevelopment; and water management.
EMM4
This formal gathering of ministers aimed to build a shared understanding among government and non-government environment leaders on key natural capital issues and solutions. During the meeting, the GMS Natural Capital Partnership considered and the closed door session provided a platform for Ministers to give directions and discuss approaches for addressing environment issues faced by the GMS. The 3-days of events concluded with the release of the Joint Ministerial Statement, which is expected to provide political support and direction for increasing investments in natural capital, driven by the WGE, and with continuing support from the Core Environment Program.
Natural Capital Dialogue
Increasing Investments in Natural Capital in the Greater Mekong Subregion
The Natural Capital Dialogue brought together senior GMS government officials, international experts and a wide range of stakeholders to discuss the significance of natural capital in the context of inclusive and sustainable development in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). Occurring ahead of the 4th GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting (EMM4), the Natural Capital Dialogue presented an important opportunity to draw public and business sector attention to the need to increase investments in the Subregion’s natural capital.
Youth Environment Meeting
Theme: Investing in Natural Capital is Investing in Youth
Overview
As emphasized in the Future We Want outcome document from Rio+20, youth are “custodians of the future” and have an essential role in helping achieve sustainable development. If engaged and empowered, GMS youth have the potential to drive the changes needed to ensure a sustainable future for their own and future generations.
Fourth Greater Mekong Subregion Environment Ministers’ Meeting (EMM4)
Every three years, environment ministers from the six Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries gather to take stock of environment challenges and opportunities, and set the direction for regional responses under the GMS Economic Cooperation Program.
Biodiversity Landscapes Forum
Theme: Designing mechanisms and building partnerships for the strategic planning and management of transboundary and other biodiversity landscapes
Overview
Biodiversity landscapes constitute a large proportion of the natural capital remaining in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). They are a rich repository of globally important biodiversity, including many endemic and endangered species, and provide vital ecosystem services. This wealth of natural capital underpins the subregion’s security in terms of energy, food, and water. Seven of these landscapes cut across international borders. These transboundary biodiversity landscapes (TBLs), which are the focus of the GMS Core Environment Program, lie in juxtaposition to the GMS economic corridors, providing both challenges and opportunities for their effective management and conservation.
Natural Capital Business Forum
Theme: Investing in Natural Capital: Public Private Cooperation for Future Prosperity in the Greater Mekong Subregion
Overview
The Fourth GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting emphasized the need to strengthen collaboration between governments, development partners, business sector, and civil society in order to find ways to maintain and enhance the region’s natural capital stocks. A key step was the need to strengthen collaboration and coordination between businesses, government, and/or civil society in ways that are demonstrably good for business, local livelihoods and for the protection and enhancement of the subregion’s natural capital. In this context the Natural Capital Business Forum engaged the businesses in their capacity as a beneficiary of public sector investments as well as the investors in economic activities associated with natural capital.
Greater Mekong Subregion Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan (2014-2018)
This ADB report features the Greater Mekong Subregion Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan, 2014-2018 (RIF-IP). It identifies a robust pipeline of 92 high priority projects from among the ...
The Fifth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
Looking forward to the Fourth GMS Environment Ministers Meeting (EMM4) and identifying roundtable collaboration priorities in 2015
At the fourth roundtable , partners identified the natural capital themed EMM4, scheduled for January 2015, as a key opportunity to influence environment leaders and policy makers.
Better Air Quality Conference 2014 & Intergovernmental 8th Regional Environmentally Sustainable Transport Forum in Asia
The Core Environment Program (CEP) ensured green freight issues were high on the agenda at the BAQ-EST conference, which brought together more than 1000 participants under the theme ‘Next Generation Solutions for Clean Air and Sustainable Transport.
9th Semi-Annual Meeting of the Working Group on Environment
Hosted by Myanmar’s Ministry of Environmental Conservation and Forestry, the 9th Semi-Annual Meeting of the Working Group on Environment (WGE SAM-9) brought together WGE members, ADB representatives and development partners to review the Core Environment Program’s 2014 progress and discuss upcoming priorities.
Workshop on Strengthening Partnerships for Natural Capital in the GMS
This CEP technical workshop on strengthening partnerships to increase natural capital investments in the GMS brought together government and development partners to jointly discuss the merits and potential shape of a GMS Natural Capital Partnership.
Climate Risk Management in ADB Projects
This ADB report features how ADB applies climate risk management approach to investment projects in Asia and the Pacific, which aims to reduce risks resulting from climate change.
GMS Strategic Environmental Assessment Knowledge Sharing Forum
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is increasingly used by GMS countries to assess the environmental and social consequences of policies, plans and programs to achieve more sustainable development outcomes.
Climate Integrated Management of Transboundary Landscapes (2015–2016)
Transboundary biodiversity landscapes in the GMS are rich in natural capital, but are increasingly under threat from development and climate change pressures, leading to environmental degradation and more vulnerable local communities.
The Fourth Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
Collaboration with Roundtable Partners on the Fourth GMS Environment Ministers Meeting (EMM4) and the Regional Investment Framework (RIF)
At this fourth roundtable, partners discussed opportunities to raise the profile of climate change issues among environment leaders in the GMS and to ensure that environmental considerations are better integrated into the GMS Regional Investment Framework’s (RIF) $50 billion project pipeline.
Inception Workshop: Building Capacity for Land Use Change Modeling
This workshop launched a new CEP activity aiming to strengthen land-use modeling capacity in the GMS, targeting government planners and academic institutions.
GMS e-Updates - Jan-Aug 2014
This ADB e-news product provides readers with an update on activities and major developments in pursuit of accelerated development of the countries sharing the Mekong River.
Land Cover and Land Use Mapping Regional Workshop
EOC representatives were among eighty participants from nine countries that gathered in Jakarta to exchange best practices in land cover and land use assessments, and discuss strategies for building national land cover datasets.
Green Freight and Logistics in Asia: Delivering the Goods, Protecting the Environment
This ADB publication features the outcomes of a workshop on Green Freight and Logistics in Asia, co-organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für InternationaleZusamm...
CEP Poster
This poster features the vision of the Core Environment Program in GMS.
ADB Environmental Issues, Climate Changes, and Energy Security in Developing Asia
This paper examines four environmental dimensions of energy security—climate change, air pollution, water availability and quality, and land-use change—and the environmental impact of ...
ADB 2013 Clean Energy Investments Project Summaries
This report summarizes the investments in clean energy made by the operations departments of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in 2013, condensing information from project databases and formal repo...
Climate Change and Rural Communities in the Greater Mekong Subregion: A Framework for Assessing Vulnerability and Adaptation Options
This report presents the methodology and lessons from a climate change adaptation study conducted by the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Core Environment Program. The study yielded a framework and metho...
ADB and Climate Investment Funds: Innovation and Action on Climate Change in Asia and the Pacific
This document presents ADB’s experience in the development of CIF programs and highlights some of the innovative transformations anticipated or already achieved by ADB projects using CIF funding. <...
Investing in Landscapes – Panel at Forests Asia Summit 2014
ADB’s Sanath Ranawana (and CEP project officer) was a panelist at the Forests Asia Summit on May 6 2014 in Jakarta, Indonesia. During the ‘Investing in Landscapes for Green Returns’ panel, he discussed the role of public financing to support environmentally friendly private sector investments in Asia’s landscapes (3:35–13:25).
Regional Consultation on Transboundary Biodiversity Landscapes
Government and international organization representatives attended a two-meeting organized by EOC to explore collaboration opportunities for improving the management of Transboundary Biodiversity Landscapes (TBLs) in the GMS.
Policy Brief: Operationalizing Environmental Economic National Accounts
This brief draws on the findings and key discussions from the 'Workshop on Valuing and Accounting for the Environment in Asia,' which was held in Bangkok 8-10 October, 2013. The brief was compiled by t...
Training workshop: Transport, Energy Use and Climate Change in the GMS
Overview
This training is a five-day intensive program designed to enhance understanding of energy and transport practitioners on issues and challenges which arise from climate change. It is a collaborative learning program in partnership with GMS Phnom Penh Plan (PPP) for Development Management.
Assessing Impact in the Greater Mekong Subregion: An Analysis of Regional Cooperation Projects
This ADB report provides a recent major initiative to assess the initial impact of ADB-supported projects under the Greater Mekong Subregion Program. As part of this exercise, a range of represent...
GMS e-Updates - May-December 2013
This ADB e-news product features progress update on activities and major developments in pursuit of accelerated development of the countries sharing the Mekong River.
Animation video on the Core Environment Program
This animation describes the work of CEP in securing natural capital in the GMS.
WGE 20th Annual Meeting & Natural Capital Knowledge Event
Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
The GMS Working Groups on Agriculture and Environment (WGE, WGA) held a joint knowledge event and their respective annual meetings in Nay Pyi Taw on 25 and 26 March.
The Second GMS Climate Change Roundtable Meeting
Key development partners and programs working in the GMS met to share information and discuss areas of collaboration on climate change initiatives in the region. The meeting, hosted by EOC, was used to...
ADB Economic Corridor Development for Inclusive Asian Regional Integration: Modeling Approach to Economic Corridors
This ADB publication looks at the experience of economic corridor development from across the world, including successful economic corridor developments in the European Union and South Asia Subregional Econom...
ADB Sustainability Report 2013: Investing in Asia and the Pacific’s Future
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Sustainability Report has been issued every 2 years since 2007. The current Sustainability Report contains selected performance highlights of ADB’s operations and corporate footprint during 2011–2012.
Opening Statement at the 19th GMS Ministerial Conference
Opening statement by ADB Vice-President Stephen P. Groff at the 19th GMS Ministerial Conference on 11 December 2013 held at Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen:
It is with great pleasure that I join you at this 19th Ministerial Conference of the Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation Program. Please allow me to first thank our hosts, the Lao People's Democratic Republic, for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me and all participants, as well as for the excellent arrangements for our meeting. I would like to especially thank His Excellency Mr. Noulinh Sinbandhit, Lao PDR's GMS Minister, for welcoming us so graciously, and for chairing our meeting. It is my honor and pleasure to co-chair this meeting with him today.
Welcome Remarks at the Second Asian Judges Symposium on Environment: Natural Capital and the Rule of Law
ADB SPEECH- 4 December 2013
Welcome remarks by ADB President Takehiko Nakao at the Second Asian Judges Symposium on Environment:
Natural Capital and the Rule of Law held in Manila, Philippines on 2 December 2013
Environmental Analysis of the GMS Regional Investment Framework (2012–2013)
From early 2012, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) begun preparing a Regional Investment Framework (RIF) to operationalize the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Strategic Framework 2012–2022.
The Second Asian Judges Symposium on Environment
An Asian Judges Network on Environment was officially launched at the Second Asian Judges Symposium on Environment to be held in Manila, 2 to 5 December.
Planning Sustainable Investments in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This CEP brief summarizes the methodology and lessons learned from a Spatial Multicriteria Assessment (SMCA) recently applied to the GMS Regional Investment Framework. It concludes that SMCA is a valua...
Greater Mekong Subregion Statistics and Maps Brochure
This brochure introduces the GMS statistics and maps available on the GMS Core Environment Program website.
Animation video on Payment for water ecosystem services
This animation produced by the James Hutton Institute explains why Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes are attracting increasing interest as policy mechanisms to improve conservation and achieve sustainable development outcomes. PES initiatives aim to reach mutually beneficial agreements between providers and users of ecosystem services, entailing a reward mechanism for ecosystem managers for maintaining or improving the provision of the services valued by beneficiaries.
The Global Forum on Natural Capital
The Global Forum on Natural Capital was organized to attract business and sustainability leaders around the globe to discuss the value of natural assets (clean air, clean water, forests) and progress with factoring ...
Energy Outlook for Asia and the Pacific
This ADB book provides an energy outlook for the region up to the year 2035 to help identify policy, social, infrastructure, and technology issues that must be addressed to meet future energy needs of ...
WGE 8th Semi-Annual Meeting and CEP Technical Working Session
The GMS Working Group on Environment (WGE) met on 30 October 2013 in Champasak, Lao PDR, to review CEP implementation progress and endorse the 2014 work-plan. Also discussed were the GMS Regional Investment Framework environment pipeline and preliminary concept and preparatory work for the 4th GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting.
Strategic Framework and Action Plan for Human Resource Development in the Greater Mekong Subregion (2013–2017)
This ADB document outlines the Greater Mekong Subregion human resource development strategy.
Workshop on Ecosystem-based Approaches to Biodiversity Conservation
The Core Environment Program (CEP) supported Viet Nam’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to host the regional workshop: “Mainstreaming ecosystem-based approaches to climate change into biodiversity conservation planning in Viet Nam.”
ADB Environment Operational Directions 2013-2020
In the context of Strategy 2020 and in the follow-up to the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), this ADB report provides a coherent overview of ADB environment operations and...
Asian Development Outlook 2013 Update: Governance and Public Service Delivery
The ADB annual Asian Development Outlook, generally launched in April, presents an analysis of developing Asia’s recent economic performance plus its prospects for the next 2 years. This Update s...
Valuing and Accounting for the Environment in the Asia Region
The Core Environment Program supported the conference “Valuing and Accounting for the Environment in the Asia Region,” which looked at how environmental values can be incorporated into national accounting systems.
Dialogue Report on New Opportunities for Natural Wealth Management
This report features the discussions, experience and lessons learnt from a regional dialogue on New Opportunities for Natural Wealth Management in June 17-20, 2013. This public private dialogue s...
GMS Climate Change Adaptation Roundtable
A number of development organizations in the GMS are working closely with the countries to help them more effectively integrate climate change considerations into development decisions.
New Opportunities for Natural Wealth Management: A Public Private Dialogue on Green Growth in the Greater Mekong Subregion
The Core Environment Program is helping further the green growth agenda in the GMS by bringing together public and private stakeholders to develop a shared understanding of green economy intiatives and how to operationalize them in the subregion.
Same Energy, More Power: Accelerating Energy Efficiency in Asia
This ADB report examines prospects for ADB to ramp up efforts in the region for greater utilization of demand-side energy efficiency, the most cost-effective source of energy supply. The report further...
GMS e-Updates - January-April 2013
This ADB e-news product features progress update on the Regional Investment Framework, preparations of the 19th Ministerial Conference, and meetings on tourism, agriculture, and environment. It also ha...
Assessment of the Greater Mekong Subregion Energy Sector Development: Progress, Prospects, and Regional Investment Priorities
This ADB report includes analyses of national plans at sector levels, and regional investment priorities that were preliminarily identified in the energy sector. The primary objective is to update info...
ADB Report on Facilitating Safe Labor Migration in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This report, prepared by the International Organization for Migration and funded by ADB, highlights issues on labor migration in the GMS and offers recommendations toward increasing social protection f...
WGE 19th Annual Meeting and WGA 10th Annual Meeting
Cross-sector collaboration is central to the long-term success of the GMS Economic Cooperation Program, particularly among inter-dependent sectors such agriculture and environment.
PPP Training on Environmental Safeguards for Transport and Energy in the GMS
This 5-day training program aimed to provide planners and environmental assessment practitioners with the concepts, tools and approaches to systematically integrate environmental safeguards into the transport and energy sectors of the GMS Economic Cooperation Program.
The First Roundtable Discussion on Climate Change Adaptation in the GMS
Climate change and associated extreme weather events will have a significant impact on economic growth and human development in the GMS. Key sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism support economic growth and local livelihoods and are highly dependent on climate-sensitive natural resources including forests, water resources, biodiversity and other ecosystem services.
GMS e-Updates - October-December 2012
This ADB e-news product features a summary of the concluded GMS events related to transport, power, and labor. It also features a special article on safe labor migration in the GMS and information on u...
GMS Atlas of the Environment - 2nd Edition
Prepared for the 20th Anniversary of the GMS, this second edition of the Atlas offers a unique overview of the exquisite beauty and diversity of the subregion’s natural environment. It also highl...
The Greater Mekong Subregion at 20: Progress and Prospects
This ADB report briefly reviews the progress of the Greater Mekong Subregion (both the region and the program) and outlines some of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Green Freight Session at Better Air Quality Conference
The Better Air Quality (BAQ) conference is an event on air quality in Asia, covering transport, energy, industry and climate change, with a particular emphasis on government policies and measures. BAQ 2012 was co-organized by the Clean Air Initiative-Asia (CAI-Asia), the Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), and in partnership with the Asian Development Bank and World Bank.
GMS Working Group on Environment 7th Semi Annual Meeting
The GMS Working Group on Environment met on 25 October in Beijing, PRC, to review CEP's 2012 implementation progress and upcoming priorities. All the meeting documents and presentations are listed belo...
GMS: 20 Years of Partnership
This collection of images illustrates the progress and challenges of 20 years of work in the Greater Mekong Subregion. It makes no attempt to focus solely on the work of the Asian Development Bank, or ...
Proceedings: GMS 2020 International Conference
This publication provides all the presentations, speeches, discussions and papers from the GMS 2020 International Conference: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Sustainability. The event, which was h...
CEP Brochure
This brochure overviews the Core Environment Program; covering the development context, history of the program, areas of work and some major program results. Please find the brochure in Burmese, Chines...
Agricultural Trade Facilitation in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This ADB publication focuses on agriculture trade facilitation plan which lays out systematic ways to increase movement and flow of agri-food products and their impacts on the Greater Mekong Subregion ...
Trade and Trade Facilitation in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This ADB book brings together studies highlighting challenges to trade facilitation in the Greater Mekong Subregion.
GMS e-Updates - July-August 2012
This ADB e-news product highlights the GMS Program’s Achievements and Prospects for the next decade as well as projects aimed at the development of the six member countries of the GMS.
GMS Power Trade and Interconnection
This publication is a historical summary of progress made in energy cooperation in the GMS since the beginning of the economic cooperation program in 1992. It highlights a two-pronged and phased approa...
Rio +20
Two side events prior to the main Rio +20 event featured the Greater Mekong Subregion and CEP.
GMS e-Updates - April-June 2012
This ADB e-news product provides readers with an update on activities and major developments in pursuit of accelerated development of the countries sharing the Mekong River.
Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study II (2007 to 2011)
CEP provided technical and financial support to the Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study II (APFSOS II), which began in 2007. Led by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, the outlook studies provide a benchmark for monitoring change, and predicting future trends, for forestry in the GMS and broader Asia-Pacific region.
GMS Development Maptool
To create synergy and avoid duplication, development planners need to know what projects other organizations are doing and where they are doing them. Without this knowledge, opportunities to maximize impact and use resources efficiently will be missed.
Phnom Penh Plan Environment Trainings for Senior Officials
The Phnom Penh Plan (PPP) is a regional program for capacity development under the Human Resource Department Strategy of the GMS Economic Cooperation Program. It is designed to help develop a core group of motivated development leaders and managers to manage the complex and challenging GMS development agenda.
Annual Meeting of the IAIA
From 26 May to 2 June 2012, EOC presented CEP achievements in the field of regional environmental cooperation in general and Strategic Environmental Assessments in the GMS in particular.
WGE 18th Annual Meeting
Hosted by PRC’s Ministry of Environmental Protection, the 18th Annual Meeting of the Working Group on Environment endorsed an 18-month work plan for CEP.
Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation Program: Overview
This ADB publication focuses on the Greater Mekong Subregional economic cooperation, which covers nine priority sectors: agriculture, energy, environment, human resource development, investment, teleco...
CEP Core Documents
Here we provide the core documents for the program, including the Technical Assistance paper, Phase II inception report, procurement plan, as well as our annual and semi-annual progress reports.
Asia-Pacific Forestry Policy Brief Series
These eight briefs were produced by the FAO as part of the Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study II, with support from CEP-BCI.
GIS Tools Training
Geographic Information System (GIS) tools can help to identify potential environmental risks, impacts and opportunities associated with economic development plans. CEP has been mainstreaming the use GIS tools in the subregion, including through targeted training programs.
GMS e-Updates - January-March 2012
This ADB e-news product provide readers with an update on activities and major developments in pursuit of accelerated development of the countries sharing the Mekong River.
The Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation Program Strategic Framework 2012–2022
The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Economic Cooperation Program will begin its third decade in 2012. The start of a new decade is an opportune time for the GMS Program to assess its achievements and develop this new strategic framework for 2012–2022. The new strategic framework builds on the substantial progress the program has made and the likely global and regional trends, as well as the commitment that member countries have made in their national development plans to the promotion of regional integration.
International Conference on GMS 2020
A major international conference, "GMS 2020: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Sustainability," was held by CEP in February 2012 in Bangkok,Thailand. The conference benchmarked GMS economic growth between 2001 and 2010 and its impact on environmental and social development as well as provided an outlook for the next decade.
Strategic Environment Assessments and Safeguards Application in Transport and Energy Sector Planning in the Greater Mekong Subregion
The Strategic Environment Assessments and Safeguards Application in Transport and Energy Sector Planning in the Greater Mekong Subregion is a five-day intensive program designed to provide opportunities for enhanced understanding and awareness on how environmental planning...
Biofuels in the Greater Mekong Subregion
This ADB paper reviews existing literature and integrates various themes to provide an overview of four main issues related to biofuels deployment in the GMS: the need for alternative energy, risks to ...
Core Agriculture Support Program Phase II 2011-2015
This report describes The Core Agriculture Support Program (CASP) Phase II (2011-2015), which is implemented by ADB's Working Group on Agriculture (WGA) to address issues on expanding cross-border trad...
GMS e-Updates - October-December 2011
This ADB e-news product features the 4th GMS Summit; ADB President report to GMS Leaders; Trade Facilitation workshop and initiatives; GMS meetings; and Developing the GMS Investment Framework under th...
Greater Mekong Subregion Forestry Policy Briefs
This series of policy briefs were produced by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with support from CEP as part of the Asia Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study II. The ...
Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative 2006–2011 Report
A report documenting the achievements of the Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative (BCI) from 2006-2011. It includes impacts and lessons learned, coverage of the eight pilot sites in Cambodia,...
Greater Mekong Subregion: Tourism Sector Assessment, Strategy, and Road Map
This ADB sector assessment, strategy, and road documents the current strategic assistance priorities in the tourism sector of the governments of the Greater Mekong Subregion and the ADB.
CEP Phase I Report: 2006-2011
This publication summarizes the achievements of the Core Environment Program (CEP) from 2006–2011. It highlights thematic work including SEA, EPA, and BCI, as well as cross-cutting areas such as ...
CEP Program Framework Document (2012-2016)
A 5-year implementation plan for phase II of the CEP program from 2012 to 2016.. The report includes: achievements from CEP phase I (2006-2011); the program background and key lessons learned; a detail...
APFSOS II – Greater Mekong Subregion Report
A report produced in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) under the Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study II (APFSOS II). Five country reports and o...
The Third GMS Environment Ministers Meeting
Representatives of Cambodia, PRC, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Union of Myanmar, the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam met to discuss and decide on the continuing collaboration on the most important resource that countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) share - the environment.
Applying Spatial Tools to Support Sustainable Planning in the GMS
This CEP publication discusses the application of the geographic information systems (GIS) in land allocation planning and distribution processes, to increase awareness of the implications of economic ...
Climate Change Vulnerability, Adaptation and Mitigation in the GMS
This publication illustrates how climate change activities are being integrated across CEP programs. A case study of Peam Krasaob Province, Cambodia, demonstrates how vulnerability and adaptation capac...
Policy Brief: SEA of Power Development Plans in Viet Nam
This publication describes how strategic environmental assessments (SEAs) have been utilized by the Government of Viet Nam as an integrated part of their strategic power development plan, including fut...
APFSOS II Country Paper – PR China
This paper was produced by the by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with support from CEP. It explores a range of topics, including prospects for China's reforesta...
Forests for Our Future in English
The forest of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) nurture a remarkable biodiversity and provide resources vital to human welfare and the region's economic prosperity. But these same forests are fragmenting and disappearing under pressure from rapid economic development, land conversion, and overuse.
Conserving Our Natural Heritage in English
Conserving our Natural Heritage introduces the GMS Core Environment program, a joint action plan by Mekong countries to improve environmental management and promote sustainable development across the region.
The Second GMS Environment Ministers Meeting
The Second GMS Environment Ministers Meeting (EMM-2) was held in Don Chan Palace Hotel in Vientiane, Lao PDR on 29 January 2008. The theme of the meeting was "Sustainable Natural Resource Use for Economic Competitiveness."
Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative Pilot Site Implementation Status Report 2007
A 2007 status report on six pilot sites of the Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative (BCI) implemented by the Core Environment Program (CEP). The report covers background information on each o...
Environmental Assessment of Economic Corridors and Sectors – Status Report
A status report of the strategic environmental assessment (SEA) conducted in the GMS during under CEP from 2006–2009. The report covers three SEAs: Hydropower Master Plan, Viet Nam; Tourism Secto...
Subregional Environmental Performance Assessment Report
This subregional environmental performance assessment (EPA), a collaborative effort between the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), examines methodologies ...
GMS Environmental Performance Assessment Report (2003 to 2006)
This synthesis report focuses on the findings of the first round of EPA reports in the GMS (comprising Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, Viet Nam, and Yunnan Province in PR China).
Second round of environmental performance assessments
(2007–2011)
During the second round of EPAs, increased emphasis was given to building national capacity, producing better quality information, and ensuring that analytical results fed into national planning processes.
BCI International Symposium Proceedings
A summary of the proceedings for the Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative (BCI) International Symposium held in Bangkok, Thailand, 27–28 April 2006. Implementers and practitioners of bi...
Strategic Environmental Assessment in the Greater Mekong Subregion - Status Report
This CEP report outlines the ADB’s 10 year plan for the Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative (2005-2014). The report provides an overview of the BCCI program in the Greater Mekong...
First round of environmental performance assessments
(2003–2006)
Environmental performance assessments were conducted in six GMS countries, namely Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, Viet Nam, and Yunnan Province in the PR China. This was part of an ADB regional technical assistance project known as Strategic Environment Framework Phase II (SEF II) conducted from 2003–2005.
The First GMS Environment Ministers Meeting
The first GMS Environment Ministers Meeting (EMM) was held in Shanghai, PRC on 25 May 2005. The overall theme of the meeting was “Managing Shared Natural Resources for Sustainable Development“. The meeting took stock of achievements in GMS environmental cooperation and discussed future directions for regional cooperation in environment and natural resources management.
GMS Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative Strategic Framework and Technical Assessment
This CEP publication outlines the ADB’s 10-year program plan for the Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Initiative (2005-2014). It provides an overview of the BCI program in the Greater Me...
Greater Mekong Subregion Atlas of the Environment
This atlas was produced as a collaborative effort between by Asian Development Bank and United Nations Environment Programme. It presents detailed maps, photographs, remote sensing images, tables, graphs, and text to provide an overview of important environmental, social, ethnic, and economic aspects...