About UPLAO

Nurturing Communities, Preserving Nature

The natural landscapes of northern Laos face significant threats. Generations of ethnic minority communities have relied on slash-and-burn agriculture, a practice that has resulted in extensive deforestation and alarming biodiversity loss. Compounded by the rising dependence on mono-crop cultivation, these practices perpetuate environmental degradation, leaving the upland communities vulnerable and their livelihoods precarious.
Since 2018, UPLAO has stood firm in its commitment to upland communities, endeavoring to guide and support them in transitioning towards more sustainable practices. Our aim is not just to offer guidance but to foster a harmonious coexistence between these communities and the delicate ecosystems they call home.

Sustainable Agriculture Transformation

At UPLAO Foundation, we’re dedicated to empowering upland communities, fostering sustainable agriculture, and leading impactful reforestation efforts. Join us in creating lasting change and preserving our environment.

Coffee Plants
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Households Joined
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Hectares
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Hours of Training
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Meet the UPLAO Team

Mr. Sandor Scheeres

With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.

Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry

Bringing a wealth of experience from working with the EU and the FAO in Laos, Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry serves..

Mr. Chang Vaipided

With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.

Sustainable Agriculture Transformation

UPLAO focuses on transitioning traditional slash...

Community Empowerment & Livelihood Diversification

UPLAO empowers upland communities by...

Reforestation & Biodiversity Conservation

The foundation actively engages in reforestation...

Community-based ecotourism

The foundation embraces community-based ecotourism...

How We Do It

At UPLAO, we are dedicated to empowering communities while diversifying livelihoods through our organic agroforestry model. Our commitment extends to ensuring sustainable development, preserving biodiversity, and promoting reforestation efforts, ensuring a harmonious relationship between people and nature.

Explore our currently funded projects

Mr. Sandor Scheeres

With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.

Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry

Bringing a wealth of experience from working with the EU and the FAO in Laos, Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry serves..

Mr. Chang Vaipided

With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.

Our Mission

UPLAO is dedicated to fostering sustainable livelihoods and preserving the natural landscapes of northern Laos through the cultivation of organic, shade-grown coffee. Our mission revolves around empowering upland communities, promoting sustainable agriculture, and conserving the environment, guided by a commitment to ethical practices, community development, and environmental preservation.

Our Vision

UPLAO Foundation envisions a future where upland communities thrive sustainably, embracing their cultural heritage while fostering economic growth in harmony with nature. Our efforts are dedicated to creating a resilient and vibrant landscape where both people and the environment flourish together.

Our Foundation's Inspriration

At UPLAO, our journey is fueled by a collective passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment. Founded by a team of dedicated individuals, our foundation stands as a beacon of hope in the lush landscapes of northern Laos.

A Journey Ignited by Purpose

Driven by a profound commitment to fostering positive change, we have embarked on a transformative journey, bringing diverse backgrounds and experiences to the forefront as we dedicated ourselves to community-driven initiatives. Witnessing firsthand the struggles of upland communities and the encroaching threat on their traditional landscapes, the birth of UPLAO emerged from a deep-rooted desire to make a difference.

Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Practices

UPLAO was conceived from a vision to empower upland communities through sustainable, organic practices. With a focus on coffee cultivation, our approach emphasizes organic farming practices, leveraging the unique stories and cultural heritage of ethnic minorities, and skillfully marketing their produce to elevate its value.

Our Commitment to Sustainable Development

At UPLAO, we transcend the label of a mere coffee enterprise. We are champions of sustainable development, dedicated to nurturing communities, preserving precious landscapes, and fostering a thriving, equitable future for all.

Coffee Plants
0
Households Joined
0
Hectares
0
Hours of Training
0

Get involved

Help us provide a sustainable future to these communities. Each project, each village and each idea requires all of us to think of the future and our planet. 

Feel Free To Contact us

For more information about our services please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.

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