Cambodia Unveils Strategic Plan to Combat Greenhouse Gas Emissions

• Sommana Yan
• 26 May 2025
• Local News
• 1241 Views

In a significant step toward addressing climate change, Cambodia has officially launched an ambitious strategic plan aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from 2024 to 2033. The initiative was unveiled during a ceremony presided over by HE Eang Sophallet, the Minister of Environment, and was attended by prominent figures, including HE Igor Driesmans, the Special Envoy of the European Union to Cambodia, and Ms. Alissar Chaker, the Representative of the United Nations Development Program in Cambodia.

At the ceremony, HE Sum Thy, Director General of the General Department of Policy and Strategy within the Ministry of Environment, emphasised the multifaceted nature of the strategic plan. He highlighted it’s focus on not only curtailing greenhouse gas emissions but also enhancing resilience to climate change and promoting good governance alongside digital transformation for sustainable development.

Ms. Alissar Chaker reinforced the significance of the plan, describing it as more than just a policy document. She noted that it serves as a comprehensive roadmap to realise Cambodia’s vision of achieving carbon neutrality and climate resilience through sustainable development practices.

During the event, HE Igor Driesmans reaffirmed the European Union’s unwavering commitment to supporting Cambodia’s transition towards a greener economy. He highlighted efforts to mobilise European companies and investors to participate in green finance through innovative financial instruments such as blended finance and risk-sharing mechanisms. Driesmans stressed that these initiatives are crucial for implementing sustainable renewable energy projects, advancing smart climate-resilient agriculture, and developing infrastructure that is both highly resilient and environmentally friendly.

Minister Eang Sophallet took the opportunity to identify the primary sectors contributing to greenhouse gas emissions that urgently require targeted action. These sectors include energy production, industrial processes, agricultural and forestry land use, and waste management. He stressed that while the Ministry of Environment plays a pivotal role, the successful implementation of the strategy hinges on the collaborative efforts of all sectors throughout the nation.

In conclusion, the launch of this strategic plan marks a pivotal moment in Cambodia’s journey toward sustainable development and environmental stewardship. With collective action and commitment, the nation aims to turn this strategy into tangible results that benefit both the environment and the economy.

• Energy and Environment