A Closer Look at Siem Reap’s Eight Protected Areas Covering Over 280k Hectares

• Sommana Yan
• 23 April 2024
• Local News
• 2388 Views

In an ambitious move towards environmental conservation, Siem Reap province has officially declared eight natural reserves, spanning approximately 280,000 hectares, under stringent state protection. This significant development, disclosed by the Ministry of Information on 18 April 2024, underscores Cambodia’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage.

These sanctuaries, meticulously managed and safeguarded against private encroachments, serve a dual purpose. They are not only vital for the conservation and management of forests and wildlife but also play a crucial role in promoting eco-tourism and maintaining the green landscape’s sustainability.

The designated protected areas include notable sites such as the Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary, Boeung Per Wildlife Sanctuary, Phnom Tnaot Phnom Pok Wildlife Sanctuary, and five others, each contributing uniquely to the biodiversity and ecological balance of the region.

Remarkably, Cambodia’s conservation efforts extend beyond Siem Reap, with a total of 57 protected areas and three mixed conservation corridors across the country, covering over 7.2 million hectares. This expansive network, which encompasses more than 41% of the nation’s total area, highlights Cambodia’s proactive approach to environmental preservation since 2020.

In tandem with these conservation measures, the Ministry of Environment is spearheading initiatives to establish green recreation corridors in Preah Suramrit Kosomak National Park “Kirirom” in Kampong Speu province and Preah Jayavarman-Norodom “Phnom Kulen” National Park in Siem Reap. These projects aim not just at enhancing community livelihoods but also at alleviating pressure on natural resources, thereby fostering a harmonious balance between human activity and nature conservation. (Read more)

• land development and policy