Phnom Penh, March 12, 2024: Cambodia has announced its dedication to an ambitious greening project, promising the planting of over a million trees each year to reach a target of 60 percent forest coverage by the mid-21st century.
This commitment was revealed by Dr. Eang Sophalleth, the Cambodian Minister of Environment, during his speech at the World Forum on Buildings and Climate Change in France. The forum, a collaborative effort by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the French Ministry of Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion, took place last week and focused on sustainable practices and strategies to combat climate change.
In his address, Dr. Sophalleth highlighted Cambodia's strategic development plan designed to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. He underscored the nation's dedication to bolstering its renewable energy usage to 70 percent by 2030, in line with commitments made following COP28 and through the ASEAN Green Deal Initiative for the Future. This initiative aims to foster a resilient and sustainable environment across the ASEAN region.
At the core of Cambodia's environmental strategy is the Environmental Chakra Strategy 2023-2028, which pivots on three foundational pillars: 'Clean, Green, and Sustainable.' The strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to environmental management, focusing on cleanliness, greenery, and sustainability across various sectors, including housing, industry, and construction, coupled with efficient waste management practices.
Moreover, Dr. Sophalleth stressed the importance of public awareness and engagement in these environmental efforts. The government has launched a wide-reaching campaign to educate citizens on the environmental impacts of construction and promote sustainable practices. This includes encouraging energy efficiency, reducing plastic use, and adopting green building standards to mitigate the construction sector's environmental footprint.
Cambodia's move towards environmental stewardship reflects a growing awareness of the critical need for sustainable development and climate change mitigation efforts worldwide. With these initiatives, the country sets an example for others in the region, aiming not only to preserve its natural beauty but also to contribute significantly to the global fight against climate change.
