Cambodia, World Bank Strengthen Environmental Cooperation

PHNOM PENH, March 9, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment and the World Bank have reaffirmed their partnership to promote sustainable practices and improve community livelihoods, officials said Sunday.

Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth told World Bank regional manager Christophe Crepin that community ownership in protecting natural resources remains central to the ministry’s green development strategy.

Talks covered ongoing projects including the Cambodia Sustainable Landscape and Ecotourism Project, the Cambodia Green Development Project, and SCALE, which targets emission reductions.

Sophalleth noted Prime Minister Hun Manet’s plans to integrate ecotourism and community livelihoods into protected areas, with sites such as Khnong Phsar, Teuk Pus and Koh Sralau under development.

Officials highlighted nationwide campaigns such as “Today I Will Not Use Plastic Bags” and “Clean Cambodia, Khmer Can Do It,” which have engaged millions.

The World Bank pledged continued support for landscape protection, ecotourism and waste management, saying joint efforts will advance Cambodia’s environmental goals and contribute to the global climate response.