AKP Phnom Penh, October 19, 2026 --

The Ministry of Environment of Cambodia has officially launched the "Super Pollutant Accelerator Programme in Cambodia," aimed at preventing the rise of toxic air substances to protect public health and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The launch ceremony was held at the Ministry of Environment’s headquarters in Phnom Penh on Oct. 19 under the presidency of H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment.

Speaking at the ceremony, H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth stated that this accelerator programme for mitigating super pollutants was comprehensively designed to respond to national priorities and align with the "Circular Strategy on Environment 2023–2028."

He emphasised that Cambodia has demonstrated an active stance and high commitment to addressing climate change, improving air quality, and reducing major air pollutants – such as methane gas, black carbon, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) – to support air quality improvements, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development across the country.

The Minister added that the programme inaugurated today represents another key achievement through which Cambodia is recognised as an important contributor to addressing global environmental issues and receiving international support. It reflects Cambodia’s firm commitment to reducing super pollutant emissions and strengthening the institutional and technical foundations necessary to achieve its ambition of accelerating emission reductions.

Ms. Catalina Etcheverry, Programme Manager of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), highly praised the strong commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia, noting that the Ministry of Environment has collaborated closely with the CCAC to implement the Clean Air Plan and measures to combat air pollution.

The Super Pollutant Accelerator Programme in Cambodia is a milestone result stemming from Cambodia's efforts and the support of the international community, which led to its official approval at the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) on Climate Change in Belém, Brazil, in 2025.

Cambodia has become one of the first countries to receive financial support of approximately US$4 million from the CCAC to implement this accelerator program over a three-year period (2026–2028).

Cambodia will now continue to build institutional capacity regarding vehicle emission standards, as well as monitor and manage emissions in the energy, agriculture, and waste management sectors to ensure sustainable development.

By Phal Sophanith