World Bank Commits $60 Million to Enhance Solid Waste and Plastics Management in Cambodia

• 11 May 2023
• Local News
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The World Bank Board of Executive Directors has granted approval for a significant $60 million credit from the International Development Association to support Cambodia in improving its solid waste and plastic management systems. This vital project will also receive co-financing of $3 million from the PROBLUE Trust Fund.

In an official press release issued on 11th May, the World Bank highlighted the pressing need for improved waste management in Cambodia due to the country’s economic growth, urbanization, and flourishing tourism industry. Over the years, the surge in solid waste and plastic usage has resulted in low collection rates, insufficient treatment and disposal methods, widespread dumping of waste and plastics in the environment and waterways, rampant street littering, and the hazardous practice of burning waste. Additionally, inadequate regulatory frameworks, policies, and conducive conditions have hindered effective waste management efforts.

The Cambodia Solid Waste and Plastic Management Improvement Project aims to strengthen institutional capacity for solid waste and plastic management at the national and sub-national levels. It will also focus on enhancing the performance of the private sector engaged in waste services and implementing improved waste fee systems to support environmentally, financially, and socially sustainable waste operations.

By incorporating qualifying criteria for municipalities’ participation and ensuring their readiness to sustain investments, the project’s design guarantees effective and impactful implementation.

“Improved solid waste and plastic management is critical for Cambodia’s economic and social development, including its tourism sector,” said Maryam Salim, World Bank Country Manager for Cambodia.

Maryam Salim, World Bank Country Manager for Cambodia, emphasized the crucial role of improved solid waste and plastic management in Cambodia’s economic and social development, particularly within the tourism sector.

Salim stressed that “the project would address marine plastic pollution at a national level and promote access to regular waste collection for households. With increased landfill, recycling, and composting capacity, the project will yield positive outcomes for public health, the environment, and tourism.”

Samdech Sar Kheng, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing solid waste and plastic management. Referring to the Municipal Solid Waste Management Policy 2020-2030, he emphasized the importance of supporting the implementation of Sub-decree No. 113 to enhance waste services’ effectiveness, transparency, and accountability.

“Supporting implementation of Sub-decree No. 113 on solid waste management to enhance the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of waste services and management, and protect public health, environmental and landscape aesthetics in Cambodia is an important priority,” he said.

The Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, along with relevant sub-national administrations, will collaborate to implement this significant project.

• Investment and Funding
• Energy and Environment