Fact sheet

Greenhouse Gases and Electricity from Large Dams

Thursday, November 1, 2007
The construction of dams, depending on their type and size, [emits] significant amounts of greenhouse gases (GHG). Dam construction involves the displacement of large amounts of solid material following blasting and excavation of rocks, gravel and sand. It also requires the manufacturing of cement, a process that leads to chemically induced emissions of CO2 to the atmosphere. Material and matter are transported by trucks [and other fossil-fuel powered vehicles], which in turn cause additional GHG emissions. Source: Global Warming and Hydroelectric Reservoirs, p. 34 (COPPE/UFRJ, Eletrobras, 2

The Legacy of Hydro in Laos

Sunday, February 29, 2004
Hydropower projects developed over the past decade in Laos have left a legacy of destroyed livelihoods and damaged ecosystems. The five case studies in this paper point to the great difficulties in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects in Laos. These experiences raise fundamental questions regarding the Lao government's institutional capacity and political will to ensure that infrastructure projects are adequately monitored, that compensation is fairly and fully distributed and that environmental issues are properly addressed.

Dams In Laos: On The Record

Thursday, January 1, 2004
Selected Quotes from Official Documents Hydropower projects developed over the past decade in Laos have left a legacy of destroyed livelihoods and damaged ecosystems. As a result of dams, tens of thousands of Laotians lack sufficient food to eat, clean water to drink and income to meet basic needs. The following quotes from official documents point to some of the ongoing problems with hydropower development in Laos.

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