Cambodia’s Sub-National Administrations Boost Environmental Management, Minister Says

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 28, 2025) — Sub-national administrations across Cambodia are intensifying efforts to address environmental challenges and improve natural resource management, in line with the government’s decentralization and deconcentration policies, Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth said Monday.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a reflection workshop held at the Ministry of Environment headquarters, Sophalleth said local authorities play a vital role in implementing environmental campaigns and advancing the ministry’s strategic goals.

“The participation of sub-national administrations in addressing environmental issues at the local level, particularly their engagement in promoting the Ministry of Environment’s campaigns, clearly demonstrates the implementation of decentralization and deconcentration,” Sophalleth said.

He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to enhancing the effectiveness and accountability of local administrations in fulfilling their environmental responsibilities.

Sophalleth called for stronger cooperation to implement the Environmental Sector Strategic Plan for Cleanliness, which includes pollution prevention, green coverage expansion, promotion of a green economy, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

He also highlighted the success of the “Clean Movement,” which has engaged more than 13 million citizens in reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability.

During the event, Sophalleth unveiled an action plan to transform Koh Sralau in Koh Kong Province into a carbon-neutral island by 2026, with initiatives including solar lighting, waste management, and mangrove restoration.