Collaborative Efforts Unleashed: 30 Protected Area Management Projects Unveiled in 7 Provinces

• Sommana Yan
• 14 May 2023
• Local News
• 1531 Views

In a momentous display of collaboration, the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Rural Development have joined forces to initiate the Cambodia Sustainable Landscape and Ecotourism Sustainability Project (CSLEP) across 30 protected areas spanning seven provinces. The remarkable initiative was highlighted during the “Ensuring Safety, Environment, and Society” training course held on 11 May 2023.

CSLEP, a visionary project backed by the Cambodian government and funded by the World Bank, represents a concerted effort by the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Rural Development to enhance the management of protected areas, unlock the potential for eco-tourism development, and elevate the value chain of non-timber forest products in the captivating landscapes of the Cardamom and Tonle Sap regions.

A notable aspect of the project lies in its unwavering support for 30 protected area communities situated within the target provinces of Koh Kong, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, Battambang, Kampong Thom, and Siem Reap. Through this transformative endeavor, these protected areas are poised to witness the development of infrastructure that prioritizes safety, environmental sustainability, and social well-being.

Moreover, the project’s implementation entails a comprehensive analysis and assessment of the potential adverse impact on stakeholders, local communities, and indigenous women. This encompasses a thorough examination of potential repercussions such as discrimination and the effects on livelihoods, land ownership, natural resources, biodiversity, and the overall welfare of the affected areas.

In a testament to Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, the government recently drafted the Environmental and Natural Resources Code, encompassing 12 chapters and a staggering 865 articles. This significant milestone was achieved during the plenary session of the Council of Ministers on 28 April 2023. (Read more)

As the CSLEP endeavors unfold, a wave of optimism permeates the nation, as the delicate balance between conservation and economic progress is artfully nurtured. This monumental initiative paves the way for a brighter future, where protected areas flourish, eco-tourism thrives, and the natural wonders of Cambodia continue to captivate the world.

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