Chinese Firm Eyes Cambodian Waste-to-Energy Potential

• 14 January 2025
• Local News
• 901 Views

Thien Y Environmental Energy Joint Stock Company, a leading Chinese recycling firm, announced its intention to invest in a waste-to-energy plant in a move set to transform waste management in Cambodia. This initiative aims to convert the kingdom’s abundant waste into electricity, creating a sustainable energy source while addressing the pressing issue of waste disposal.

The ambitious proposal was discussed during a meeting with HE Sabo Ozano, the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Environment. The discussions occurred while the ministry’s delegation visited Vietnam from 10-12 January 2025, exploring innovative waste management practices.

Pan Yaoda, CEO of Thien Y, shared insights on the company’s advanced technologies in waste recycling, which have already been successfully implemented in China and Vietnam. “We are eager to bring these skills to Cambodia, turning waste into a valuable resource,” Pan stated.

HE Sabo Ozano enthusiastically supported the investment, emphasizing its dual benefits: promoting environmental sustainability and bolstering the national economy. The Secretary of State urged the company to develop a comprehensive project plan to maximize the positive impacts on local communities.

This initiative comes at a crucial time for Cambodia, which generates over 4 million tons of waste annually. On average, the nation produces more than 10,000 tons of waste daily, with a staggering 4,000 tons coming from the capital, Phnom Penh, alone. Alarmingly, 60% of this waste is food-related, while about 20% comprises plastic. Currently, only 64% of the waste is sent to landfills, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions.

With its plans to harness waste for energy, Thien Y Environmental Energy could be a game changer in Cambodia’s waste management landscape, paving the way for cleaner cities and a more sustainable future. As negotiations progress, the potential for collaboration between the government and the company could redefine how Cambodia approaches its waste challenges.

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