Econox Laos

Summary of Innovation 

Econox Laos is tackling microplastic pollution in water bodies by developing a microplastic filter specifically for washing machines in the hospitality sector. Building on their Plastic Free Laos Label initiative, which raised awareness and promoted green practices among SMEs, this project aims to capture microplastics released during laundry before they reach sewage systems and natural water resources. The initiative also includes capacity-building activities, data collection on pollution, and a pilot implementation of the filter in hospitality businesses. ABIC funding will support the development, testing, and community engagement efforts surrounding this innovative solution.

In the next six months, Econox Laos will publish a comprehensive report on microplastic pollution in the hospitality sector, launch an awareness campaign, and develop a prototype filter for testing with Plastic Free Laos members. Within two years, the goal is for microplastic filtration devices to be widely available for household and hospitality use, with communities fully informed about the environmental impact of laundryrelated microplastic pollution.