Phnom Penh, April 11, 2024 – In a strategic move to mitigate the effects of climate change, the Ministry of Environment has declared forest conservation and reforestation as top priorities of the Cambodian government’s environmental agenda.

The declaration was made by Chuop Paris, Deputy Minister of Environment, during an interview on April 9 following his participation in a climate change seminar for local and international journalists in Siem Reap Province.

With an ambitious goal to maintain Cambodia's forest cover at 60% by 2050, the government has initiated a slew of measures to encourage tree planting and preserve existing woodlands, he explained.

Achieving these objectives requires robust, enduring efforts, coupled with strategic environmental management to provide alternative livelihoods for communities reliant on forests. This shift is essential not only to mitigate the impacts of climate change but also to supply sustainable technical solutions and infrastructure for adapting traditional livelihoods without compromising environmental integrity, Paris stated.

The alternatives presented to communities include animal husbandry and ecotourism, which are being pursued as viable, sustainable options.

Despite not being one of the major global contributors to climate change, Cambodia finds itself among the countries most vulnerable to its effects. As such, forest preservation and enhancement efforts remain a cornerstone of the Royal Government’s environmental policy, underscoring the country's commitment to tackling global climate challenges.