AKP Phnom Penh, September 04, 3025 -- Cambodia is taking a strong stance in addressing regional and global environmental challenges, the nation’s Minister of Environment, H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, said on September 3.

Speaking at the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment (AMME-18) in Malaysia, Dr. Sophalleth highlighted several of Cambodia’s key initiatives, including the adoption of the National Strategy on Resilient, Sustainable, and Inclusive Development and the Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality 2050.

The Ministry of Environment reported that these efforts include significant progress in plastic waste management, with more than half the population now embracing the 4Rs principles (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). 

The country also plants over two million trees annually to combat deforestation and mitigate forest fire risks.

To enforce sustainability, the Royal Government has mandated that the private sector install wastewater treatment systems and adhere to strict environmental standards. These actions are designed to help Cambodia achieve its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, with implementation guided by sectoral roadmaps and the first phase of the National Pentagon Strategy.

Dr. Sophalleth called on ASEAN member states to strengthen regional cooperation, particularly through institutions like the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. He also stressed the importance of regional solidarity ahead of COP30, which will be hosted in Brazil.

In a joint statement for COP30, Cambodia emphasized the critical role of climate finance and affordable green technologies in upcoming negotiations. “Without predictable resources, no member state can fully realize its commitments,” the minister stated, urging ASEAN to present a united front to ensure the region’s concerns are heard and respected on the global stage.

By K. Rithy Reak