Cambodia and Laos Unite to Tackle Mekong River Plastic Pollution

• 17 September 2024
• Local News
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Cambodia and Laos have formalised their joint efforts to address plastic pollution in the Mekong River, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the 6th GMS Environment Ministers’ Meeting (EMM-6), held from 10 to 13 September 2024 in Phnom Penh.

The agreement signifies a shared commitment to reducing plastic waste and protecting the Mekong’s ecosystems, aligning with Cambodia’s broader environmental chakra strategy focused on sustainability, green practices, and cleanliness, stated Dr Eang Sophalleth, Cambodia’s Minister of Environment.

The MoU, signed by the environmental ministries of both nations, focuses on mitigating the impact of cross-border resource destruction and curbing plastic waste pollution in the Mekong River. According to a recent study conducted by the Mekong River Commission (MRC), the river is contaminated with an estimated 17 to 101 tonnes of plastic waste per day, placing it among the top 10 most polluted rivers globally.

This growing environmental challenge has spurred regional collaboration between the member countries—Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam—to implement sustainable mechanisms that control and clear plastic toxins, which endanger ecosystems and human health alike.

Ports and harbours along the Mekong River are increasingly strained by excessive solid waste, primarily from plastic bottles and bags, which comprise 70 to 90 percent of the waste found. This pollution disrupts both marine and local environments and exacerbates the region’s waste management issues.

As of 2020, the four countries produced an estimated 8 million tonnes of plastic waste collectively, highlighting the urgent need for effective waste management solutions and regional cooperation.

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