BambooLao's journey began in 2017, rooted in an ethnic village nestled at the base of the stunning Phou Phoueng Mountain in Luang Prabang, Laos. In this calm and green bamboo-filled village of hunters and gatherers, the idea to make eco-friendly bamboo straws to replace plastic straws and create job
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BambooLao’s journey began in 2017, rooted in an ethnic village nestled at the base of the stunning Phou Phoueng Mountain in Luang Prabang, Laos. In this calm and green bamboo-filled village of hunters and gatherers, the idea to make eco-friendly bamboo straws to replace plastic straws and create job opportunities for villagers to support the communities was born.
Supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Information in Luang Prabang, BambooLao’s official launch at the Mekong Tourism Forum in 2017 marked a pivotal moment. The introduction of bamboo straws and bamboo cups at the Grand Hotel was met with resounding enthusiasm, particularly from the hospitality industry. Other hotels like Rosewood, Amantaka or the Hillside Lodge and Mandal Ou Resort, small and big restaurants like Tangor or Phatkao and many more were eager to embrace sustainable alternatives and reduce their plastic footprint, and therefore welcomed BambooLao’s products with open arms.
BambooLao’s journey reached a peak and even more attention with its participation in the Mekong Innovative Start-Up (MIST) competition. Winning the final pitch on the international stage of ITB Asia in Singapore validated not only the viability of BambooLao’s products but also the resonance of its mission.
However, BambooLao’s mission extended beyond commerce. An important collaboration with the Bangkok-based NIST International School’s plastic-free initiative amplified the enterprise’s reach and underscored its dedication to raising awareness.
Collaborations with initiatives like Happy Nakai and Free the Bears in Laos echoed its commitment to social impact.
A workshop atop the sacred Mount Kulen, supported by the GIZ Cambodia, showcased BambooLao’s dedication to uplifting local communities while protecting the environment.
Similarly, the collaboration with the XonePhao Working Group for People Living With Disabilities, which was supported by Samsung, demonstrated BambooLao’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
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