RCCU, German Technology Transforms River Cleanup in Phnom Penh: 800 Tons of Waste Collected Within a Year

• 23 October 2023
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River Clean Clean Up (RCCU) initiative in Phnom Penh has employed cutting-edge German technology to extract a remarkable 800 tons of garbage from the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonle Sap rivers. This monumental achievement is complemented by the deployment of specialized boats equipped with advanced data collection capabilities, featuring drones and smart cameras empowered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Mr. Nou Sovann, the Executive Director of the Sea Cleanup Organization, revealed these astounding developments during the EU-ASEAN Green Diplomatic Week on 22 October. Presenting a vision of further expansion, he disclosed that RCCU now operates two additional river garbage boats. Their daily missions extend along Cambodia’s coastline as part of a robust effort to combat the escalating problem of waterborne pollution.

The maiden German waste collection vessel, enhanced with state-of-the-art technology, embarked on its environmental cleanup mission along Phnom Penh’s riverbanks in March 2022. Capable of removing approximately 20 tons of waste daily, this pioneering vessel symbolizes the progress and impact of collaborative, technology-driven conservation endeavors.

The European Union’s commitment to environmental responsibility was underscored during this event by HE Igor DRIESMANS, Ambassador of the European Union to Cambodia. His statement reaffirmed the EU’s dedication to assisting the Cambodian government in reducing plastic waste. The issue of plastic pollution, a global concern, necessitates persistent efforts over time.

Research indicates that more than 3.7 million tons of plastic waste are discharged into the sea from the Mekong River annually. The repercussions are profound, affecting not only the delicate ecosystem but also the health and well-being of communities reliant on the Mekong River for sustenance and livelihoods.

• Energy and Environment