Phnom Penh, July 11, 2024 – Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many, Minister of Public Works, announced the Ministry of Environment's initiative to distribute free saplings to the public as part of a strategic effort to achieve 60% forest cover in Cambodia by 2050.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the "Green Sprouts" exhibition and the 4th National Folk Forum at the Ministry of Environment on July 10, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many emphasized the importance of this initiative. The event was attended by Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment; Sok Soken, Minister of Tourism; Hem Vandy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation; and other key officials, ambassadors, development partners, and members of the public.

Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many highlighted that the distribution of seedlings aligns with the "Green Strategy 2023-2028" under the first phase of the Pentagon Strategy led by Prime Minister Hun Manet. This strategy aims to promote environmental protection, natural resource conservation, and sustainable development to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Dr. Eang Sophalleth noted that the exhibition is a significant event in the Ministry of Environment’s history and supports the campaign "Plant at least 1 million trees per year." This campaign mandates that each of the 25 provincial environment departments plant 100,000 saplings annually, distributing them for free to the public to enhance green cover across Cambodia.

The "Green Sprouts" exhibition, held from July 10 to 12, 2024, in front of the Techo Heritage Building, and from July 10 to 16, 2024, at provincial environment departments, aims to promote tree planting awareness and involve various stakeholders in biodiversity conservation.

Under the Ministry of Environment's initiative, the "Sok An Phnom Kulen Hair Research and Conservation Center" has been established with four main objectives: scientific research, conservation, education and training, and providing a natural viewing and recreational area.

The public is encouraged to visit and collect free saplings at the Ministry of Environment, contributing to environmental conservation and fostering sustainable practices. The event reflects the commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia and the Ministry of Environment to implement international environmental conventions and foster community involvement in environmental stewardship.