Understanding the dynamic interconnection of energy and the environment, Mekong Institute (MI) works to balance their management for the long-term sustainability of the GMS. As globalization and rapid urbanization are taking place in the GMS, Cambodia, P.R. China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam have each displayed surging economic growth given its abundant human and natural resources, as well as its strategic location as a bridge between South and East Asia.

Concurrently, the upsurge in economic activities and population have placed escalating pressure on land, water, and power sources in the subregion, where around 322 million people rely on for their food, water, energy, and income. Compounding the strain are increasing weather variabilities, more frequent and severe weather events, as well as the degradation of biodiversity and ecosystem services due in part to intensive hydropower development and climate change.

While countries in the GMS have initiated efforts to integrate energy and climate change adaptation into national development strategies and policies, a more calibrated regional convergence is necessary to effectively translate efforts into a sustainable path towards energy security and climate resilience in the subregion.

As such, collective action is required to deliver strategic and innovative solutions. Through the pooling of capacity building investments, research, and networks, MI will work with regional cooperation mechanisms and institutions to jointly equalize energy access and connectivity, boost energy productivity, widen scientific understanding, enhance cost-effective agri-environmental policies, identify sound water management practices, and advocate proactive responses to climate change.