Cambodia launches Environmental Diplomacy Strategy for 2026–2030

PHNOM PENH, July 8, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has launched its Environmental Diplomacy Strategy (CEDS) for 2026–2030, a national framework aimed at strengthening international cooperation and tackling global climate challenges.

The strategy was unveiled on July 6 at the Ministry of Environment in Phnom Penh under the chairmanship of Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth.

The ceremony was attended by lawmakers, senior government officials, representatives of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), international organisations, development partners and other guests.

Sophalleth said the initiative comes at a critical time as the world faces increasingly complex environmental threats that demand closer cooperation, stronger trust among nations and collective action.

He described environmental diplomacy as a vital bridge between economic growth and ecological protection.

The CEDS sets out priorities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through forest conservation, clean energy transition, climate‑smart agriculture and green investment, while also strengthening resilience through infrastructure development, community preparedness, institutional reforms, public‑private partnerships and climate finance mobilisation.

It also calls for intensified biodiversity protection and forest restoration, including stronger law enforcement in protected areas, expanded cooperation with stakeholders and reforestation programmes that support sustainable livelihoods.

In addition, the strategy seeks to curb pollution and safeguard air, land and water resources by tightening regulations, raising public awareness, promoting clean energy and environmentally friendly transport,

and improving wastewater treatment, agricultural runoff management and waste disposal systems, including recycling and waste‑to‑energy solutions.

Officials said the new framework will advance Cambodia’s sustainable development goals while reinforcing its role in international environmental diplomacy.