Minister of Environment, H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, is calling upon environmental and social enthusiasts to actively engage in promoting a green culture that aims to uplift communities from poverty, according to the ministry’s news release.
In a recent announcement, H.E. Eang Sophalleth highlighted the significance of the Green Destination goal as an additional economic avenue for Cambodia’s communities.
This announcement coincided with a courtesy call from the Association of Environmental and Social Lovers, seeking recommendations from H.E. Minister to contribute to environmental initiatives. The Green Destination goals, derived from the environmental Chakra strategy, are pivotal in improving community well-being and combating poverty.
The strategy outlines key steps, including the establishment of four international-scale nurseries in Kampong Speu, Koh Kong/Preah Sihanouk, Thbong Khmum, and Siem Reap provinces, with the capacity to plant a minimum of 1 million trees. These trees serve various purposes: s
eedlings for distribution to the public and students, seedlings for direct planting, and seedlings intended to grow into large trees for sale to companies or institutions in need of ornamental wood for Boreys or public spaces.
In addition to the nursery initiative, the Ministry of Environment plans to create recreational areas and tents in these regions, providing opportunities for the local population to earn income by collecting service fees from tourists. Emphasising the principles of cleanliness and affordability for tourists, this initiative aligns with the clean, green, and sustainable culture promoted by the environmental Chakra strategy, actively working towards Cambodia’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral country by 2050.
In alignment with these efforts, Mr. Chum Huot, President of the Association of Environmental and Social Lovers, has pledged collaboration with the Ministry of Environment. Their joint focus includes campaigns to reduce plastic bags and promote tree planting, prioritising conserva
tion over logging. Additionally, they support the Ministry’s four measures to prevent natural resource crimes, contributing to the ambitious target of increasing Cambodia’s forest cover by 60 percent by 2050.
Source: Agence Kampuchea Presse