Cambodia is facing a number of environmental challenges, and due to its rapid economic growth over the past decade, the Kingdom is facing increased deforestation, air pollution, and water scarcity, in addition to the global environmental issues of climate change.
These environmental challenges are having a serious impact on the health and well-being of those living in Cambodia.
There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainability in Cambodia and the government is trying to tackle these environmental challenges, while non-governmental organisations work to promote sustainable development.
At all levels of industry, there are attempts to promote sustainable business practices that contribute to a positive environmental footprint
What are the environmental challenges in Cambodia and what pathways to sustainability are there? Using findings from the latest Consumer Report Cambodia 2023, a joint effort with the local agency Standard Insights that gathered data from over 1,000 respondents, we gained a deeper understanding of their views towards sustainability.
We also examine the roles of the government, businesses, and individuals in fostering and promoting sustainability in Cambodia.
Cambodia is located in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) of Southeast Asia which is known for its ample natural beauty and rich biodiversity. There are very significant environmental challenges that threaten Cambodia's precious ecosystems and the diverse flora, fauna, and people that rely on them.
Cambodia has been grappling with extensive deforestation stemming from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and rapid urbanisation. These factors have had a significant impact on the natural ecosystems, resulting in the loss of biodiversity, increased carbon emissions, as well as the displacement of wildlife (in some cases advancing the extinction of rare species) due to the destruction of vital habitats such as wetlands, forests, and mangroves.
Deforestation also extends to impacting indigenous communities, jeopardising their cultural survival and livelihoods. In 2022, Cambodia lost approximately 100,000 hectares of natural forest and the resulting release of 58.4 million metric tons of CO₂.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to combat illegal logging, protect the forests, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the rights and well-being of indigenous communities, while also mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
Water pollution in Cambodia affects both inland and coastal areas, and the main causes are agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and inadequate sewage treatment. These lead to the contamination of natural water sources and pose a threat to aquatic life and impact local communities' livelihoods.
Vital ecosystems found along Cambodia’s once pristine coastline, such as mangrove forests, are constantly under threat from sediment runoff caused by deforestation, which includes hazardous pesticides and fertilisers.
One example is poorly regulated shrimp farms which lead to mangrove clearance and the release of excess nutrients - this disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem and promotes the overgrowth of algae. These combined factors pose significant challenges to the sustainability and well-being of Cambodia's coastal regions and natural water supplies.
The surge in solid waste, particularly plastic waste, is another area of concern in Cambodia. Driven by rapid population growth and economic development, the urban areas and cities such as the capital of Phnom Penh face an uptick in the daily generation of more than 3,500 tons of municipal waste, while about 80% of this is being collected and disposed of at open dump sites near the city.
Urban and rural areas which lack proper and efficient waste collection services lead to the open burning of waste, while the remaining waste finds its way onto streets and local waterways, carrying plastic debris into natural water supply and rivers.
The consequences of plastic waste pollution are drastic - both environmentally and economically. Major urban and economic hubs (Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville for example) suffer from being exposed to increased flooding risks as waterways become blocked by plastic waste, the clogging of sewage and drainage systems.
The burning of plastics releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and poses significant public health risks and needs to be addressed to mitigate the detrimental impacts of plastic waste on the Kingdom’s environment, economy, and public health and development.
According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Cambodia's energy sources consist of fuel wood and other biomass contributing approximately 44.4% to the total primary energy supply. Oil and petroleum products account for approximately 38.5%, while coal makes up around 10.7%. Hydropower, a renewable energy source, only represents 3.6% of the energy supply, and electricity imports contribute approximately 2.8%.
In terms of total energy consumption, Cambodia has undergone significant growth due to increased access to energy and the demands of its economic development and diversification. The average annual increase was 6.9% between 2010 and 2015
In 2015, the energy consumption breakdown in Cambodia was: petroleum products (50.5%) constituted the largest share, biomass 36.0%, electricity 13.1%, and coal represented a modest 0.4% of the total.
This data provides an overview of the energy landscape of Cambodia, with biomass and petroleum products playing substantial roles in powering the country.
However, it is worth noting the growing importance of renewable sources like hydropower and the need for effective management and sustainable development of Cambodia's energy sector in the future.
Aligned with the Paris Agreement, Cambodia unveiled its Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality (LTS4CN) in February 2022. This strategic roadmap outlines priority actions which target a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
The LTS4CN demonstrates Cambodia's commitment to global climate goals and serves as a visionary policy tool to guide decisions without replacing existing national and sectoral strategies and provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable development involving all relevant stakeholders.
Corporations operating in Cambodia have a crucial role to play in driving environmental sustainability.
By adopting sustainable practices, which include reducing energy consumption, implementing effective waste management systems, and minimising ecological footprints, commercial enterprises can make a significant positive impact on Cambodia’s future. Embracing corporate social responsibility not only benefits the environment but also enhances brand reputation and fosters long-term profitability.
The recent report suggested that a majority of 61.7% of respondents believe that companies should take a proactive and transparent approach to addressing global environmental challenges.
This indicates that Cambodian consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of corporate responsibility for environmental sustainability and expect companies to take a leading position in adopting sustainable practices.
Dimitri Nauwelaerts, Country Representative & Regional Commercial Manager of ADD (Asia Data Destruction) said of the growing interest and awareness of environmental issues in Cambodia, “Even though it might only be a small percentage, many foreign-owned companies are investing in better sustainable manufacturing processes. These include factories using renewable energy, and innovative waste management systems like waste-to-energy.”
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Consumer awareness and behaviour play a vital role in achieving environmental sustainability. If individuals make informed choices and support environmentally friendly products and services, they actively contribute to reducing environmental degradation.
Educating the public about the importance of sustainable consumption and encouraging responsible consumer behaviour is crucial for a fundamental change.
A majority of Cambodians (59.6%) also expressed in the report that they believe that their own efforts to sustain the environment will have a significant impact on whether or not the planet gets better, or becomes worse.
When asked about sustainability-driven measures, more than half responded that they have avoided food wastage (56.4%), while 32.8% preferred to walk, bike, or use public transportation when commuting. Even 23.7% of Cambodians have separated and sorted garbage which is impressive when the local refuse services don't distinguish between plastics, glass and general waste.
Cambodians’ sentiments on sustainability-driven actions that they have been involved in over the past 12 months, showed that 42.3% had bought products or services based on the sole purpose of supporting eco-friendly and ethical practices. Remarkably, nearly one quarter (24.9%) have boycotted or stopped buying from non-environmentally friendly or non-ethical brands.
Cambodia is at an environmental crossroads. While the country and its people face significant challenges (deforestation, water and coastal pollution, and plastic waste), there has been evidence that there is a move towards sustainability.
The Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, growing consumer awareness, sustainable practices, investment in renewable energy, and the promotion of responsible consumer behaviour suggest Cambodia can preserve its vital ecosystems, and biodiversity, and embark on a greener and more resilient future for its people and the planet.
Cambodia is facing a number of environmental challenges, and due to its rapid economic growth over the past decade, the Kingdom is facing increased deforestation, air pollution, and water scarcity, in addition to the global environmental issues of climate change.
These environmental challenges are having a serious impact on the health and well-being of those living in Cambodia.
There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainability in Cambodia and the government is trying to tackle these environmental challenges, while non-governmental organisations work to promote sustainable development.
At all levels of industry, there are attempts to promote sustainable business practices that contribute to a positive environmental footprint
What are the environmental challenges in Cambodia and what pathways to sustainability are there? Using findings from the latest Consumer Report Cambodia 2023, a joint effort with the local agency Standard Insights that gathered data from over 1,000 respondents, we gained a deeper understanding of their views towards sustainability.
We also examine the roles of the government, businesses, and individuals in fostering and promoting sustainability in Cambodia.
Cambodia is located in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) of Southeast Asia which is known for its ample natural beauty and rich biodiversity. There are very significant environmental challenges that threaten Cambodia's precious ecosystems and the diverse flora, fauna, and people that rely on them.
Cambodia has been grappling with extensive deforestation stemming from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and rapid urbanisation. These factors have had a significant impact on the natural ecosystems, resulting in the loss of biodiversity, increased carbon emissions, as well as the displacement of wildlife (in some cases advancing the extinction of rare species) due to the destruction of vital habitats such as wetlands, forests, and mangroves.
Deforestation also extends to impacting indigenous communities, jeopardising their cultural survival and livelihoods. In 2022, Cambodia lost approximately 100,000 hectares of natural forest and the resulting release of 58.4 million metric tons of CO₂.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to combat illegal logging, protect the forests, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the rights and well-being of indigenous communities, while also mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
Water pollution in Cambodia affects both inland and coastal areas, and the main causes are agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and inadequate sewage treatment. These lead to the contamination of natural water sources and pose a threat to aquatic life and impact local communities' livelihoods.
Vital ecosystems found along Cambodia’s once pristine coastline, such as mangrove forests, are constantly under threat from sediment runoff caused by deforestation, which includes hazardous pesticides and fertilisers.
One example is poorly regulated shrimp farms which lead to mangrove clearance and the release of excess nutrients - this disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem and promotes the overgrowth of algae. These combined factors pose significant challenges to the sustainability and well-being of Cambodia's coastal regions and natural water supplies.
The surge in solid waste, particularly plastic waste, is another area of concern in Cambodia. Driven by rapid population growth and economic development, the urban areas and cities such as the capital of Phnom Penh face an uptick in the daily generation of more than 3,500 tons of municipal waste, while about 80% of this is being collected and disposed of at open dump sites near the city.
Urban and rural areas which lack proper and efficient waste collection services lead to the open burning of waste, while the remaining waste finds its way onto streets and local waterways, carrying plastic debris into natural water supply and rivers.
The consequences of plastic waste pollution are drastic - both environmentally and economically. Major urban and economic hubs (Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville for example) suffer from being exposed to increased flooding risks as waterways become blocked by plastic waste, the clogging of sewage and drainage systems.
The burning of plastics releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and poses significant public health risks and needs to be addressed to mitigate the detrimental impacts of plastic waste on the Kingdom’s environment, economy, and public health and development.
According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Cambodia's energy sources consist of fuel wood and other biomass contributing approximately 44.4% to the total primary energy supply. Oil and petroleum products account for approximately 38.5%, while coal makes up around 10.7%. Hydropower, a renewable energy source, only represents 3.6% of the energy supply, and electricity imports contribute approximately 2.8%.
In terms of total energy consumption, Cambodia has undergone significant growth due to increased access to energy and the demands of its economic development and diversification. The average annual increase was 6.9% between 2010 and 2015
In 2015, the energy consumption breakdown in Cambodia was: petroleum products (50.5%) constituted the largest share, biomass 36.0%, electricity 13.1%, and coal represented a modest 0.4% of the total.
This data provides an overview of the energy landscape of Cambodia, with biomass and petroleum products playing substantial roles in powering the country.
However, it is worth noting the growing importance of renewable sources like hydropower and the need for effective management and sustainable development of Cambodia's energy sector in the future.
Aligned with the Paris Agreement, Cambodia unveiled its Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality (LTS4CN) in February 2022. This strategic roadmap outlines priority actions which target a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
The LTS4CN demonstrates Cambodia's commitment to global climate goals and serves as a visionary policy tool to guide decisions without replacing existing national and sectoral strategies and provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable development involving all relevant stakeholders.
Corporations operating in Cambodia have a crucial role to play in driving environmental sustainability.
By adopting sustainable practices, which include reducing energy consumption, implementing effective waste management systems, and minimising ecological footprints, commercial enterprises can make a significant positive impact on Cambodia’s future. Embracing corporate social responsibility not only benefits the environment but also enhances brand reputation and fosters long-term profitability.
The recent report suggested that a majority of 61.7% of respondents believe that companies should take a proactive and transparent approach to addressing global environmental challenges.
This indicates that Cambodian consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of corporate responsibility for environmental sustainability and expect companies to take a leading position in adopting sustainable practices.
Dimitri Nauwelaerts, Country Representative & Regional Commercial Manager of ADD (Asia Data Destruction) said of the growing interest and awareness of environmental issues in Cambodia, “Even though it might only be a small percentage, many foreign-owned companies are investing in better sustainable manufacturing processes. These include factories using renewable energy, and innovative waste management systems like waste-to-energy.”
Consumer awareness and behaviour play a vital role in achieving environmental sustainability. If individuals make informed choices and support environmentally friendly products and services, they actively contribute to reducing environmental degradation.
Educating the public about the importance of sustainable consumption and encouraging responsible consumer behaviour is crucial for a fundamental change.
A majority of Cambodians (59.6%) also expressed in the report that they believe that their own efforts to sustain the environment will have a significant impact on whether or not the planet gets better, or becomes worse.
When asked about sustainability-driven measures, more than half responded that they have avoided food wastage (56.4%), while 32.8% preferred to walk, bike, or use public transportation when commuting. Even 23.7% of Cambodians have separated and sorted garbage which is impressive when the local refuse services don't distinguish between plastics, glass and general waste.
Cambodians’ sentiments on sustainability-driven actions that they have been involved in over the past 12 months, showed that 42.3% had bought products or services based on the sole purpose of supporting eco-friendly and ethical practices. Remarkably, nearly one quarter (24.9%) have boycotted or stopped buying from non-environmentally friendly or non-ethical brands.
Cambodia is at an environmental crossroads. While the country and its people face significant challenges (deforestation, water and coastal pollution, and plastic waste), there has been evidence that there is a move towards sustainability.
The Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, growing consumer awareness, sustainable practices, investment in renewable energy, and the promotion of responsible consumer behaviour suggest Cambodia can preserve its vital ecosystems, and biodiversity, and embark on a greener and more resilient future for its people and the planet.
.png)
Cambodia is facing a number of environmental challenges, and due to its rapid economic growth over the past decade, the Kingdom is facing increased deforestation, air pollution, and water scarcity, in addition to the global environmental issues of climate change.
These environmental challenges are having a serious impact on the health and well-being of those living in Cambodia.
There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainability in Cambodia and the government is trying to tackle these environmental challenges, while non-governmental organisations work to promote sustainable development.
At all levels of industry, there are attempts to promote sustainable business practices that contribute to a positive environmental footprint
What are the environmental challenges in Cambodia and what pathways to sustainability are there? Using findings from the latest Consumer Report Cambodia 2023, a joint effort with the local agency Standard Insights that gathered data from over 1,000 respondents, we gained a deeper understanding of their views towards sustainability.
We also examine the roles of the government, businesses, and individuals in fostering and promoting sustainability in Cambodia.
Cambodia is located in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) of Southeast Asia which is known for its ample natural beauty and rich biodiversity. There are very significant environmental challenges that threaten Cambodia's precious ecosystems and the diverse flora, fauna, and people that rely on them.
Cambodia has been grappling with extensive deforestation stemming from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and rapid urbanisation. These factors have had a significant impact on the natural ecosystems, resulting in the loss of biodiversity, increased carbon emissions, as well as the displacement of wildlife (in some cases advancing the extinction of rare species) due to the destruction of vital habitats such as wetlands, forests, and mangroves.
Deforestation also extends to impacting indigenous communities, jeopardising their cultural survival and livelihoods. In 2022, Cambodia lost approximately 100,000 hectares of natural forest and the resulting release of 58.4 million metric tons of CO₂.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to combat illegal logging, protect the forests, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the rights and well-being of indigenous communities, while also mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
Water pollution in Cambodia affects both inland and coastal areas, and the main causes are agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and inadequate sewage treatment. These lead to the contamination of natural water sources and pose a threat to aquatic life and impact local communities' livelihoods.
Vital ecosystems found along Cambodia’s once pristine coastline, such as mangrove forests, are constantly under threat from sediment runoff caused by deforestation, which includes hazardous pesticides and fertilisers.
One example is poorly regulated shrimp farms which lead to mangrove clearance and the release of excess nutrients - this disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem and promotes the overgrowth of algae. These combined factors pose significant challenges to the sustainability and well-being of Cambodia's coastal regions and natural water supplies.
The surge in solid waste, particularly plastic waste, is another area of concern in Cambodia. Driven by rapid population growth and economic development, the urban areas and cities such as the capital of Phnom Penh face an uptick in the daily generation of more than 3,500 tons of municipal waste, while about 80% of this is being collected and disposed of at open dump sites near the city.
Urban and rural areas which lack proper and efficient waste collection services lead to the open burning of waste, while the remaining waste finds its way onto streets and local waterways, carrying plastic debris into natural water supply and rivers.
The consequences of plastic waste pollution are drastic - both environmentally and economically. Major urban and economic hubs (Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville for example) suffer from being exposed to increased flooding risks as waterways become blocked by plastic waste, the clogging of sewage and drainage systems.
The burning of plastics releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and poses significant public health risks and needs to be addressed to mitigate the detrimental impacts of plastic waste on the Kingdom’s environment, economy, and public health and development.
According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Cambodia's energy sources consist of fuel wood and other biomass contributing approximately 44.4% to the total primary energy supply. Oil and petroleum products account for approximately 38.5%, while coal makes up around 10.7%. Hydropower, a renewable energy source, only represents 3.6% of the energy supply, and electricity imports contribute approximately 2.8%.
In terms of total energy consumption, Cambodia has undergone significant growth due to increased access to energy and the demands of its economic development and diversification. The average annual increase was 6.9% between 2010 and 2015
In 2015, the energy consumption breakdown in Cambodia was: petroleum products (50.5%) constituted the largest share, biomass 36.0%, electricity 13.1%, and coal represented a modest 0.4% of the total.
This data provides an overview of the energy landscape of Cambodia, with biomass and petroleum products playing substantial roles in powering the country.
However, it is worth noting the growing importance of renewable sources like hydropower and the need for effective management and sustainable development of Cambodia's energy sector in the future.
Aligned with the Paris Agreement, Cambodia unveiled its Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality (LTS4CN) in February 2022. This strategic roadmap outlines priority actions which target a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
The LTS4CN demonstrates Cambodia's commitment to global climate goals and serves as a visionary policy tool to guide decisions without replacing existing national and sectoral strategies and provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable development involving all relevant stakeholders.
Corporations operating in Cambodia have a crucial role to play in driving environmental sustainability.
By adopting sustainable practices, which include reducing energy consumption, implementing effective waste management systems, and minimising ecological footprints, commercial enterprises can make a significant positive impact on Cambodia’s future. Embracing corporate social responsibility not only benefits the environment but also enhances brand reputation and fosters long-term profitability.
The recent report suggested that a majority of 61.7% of respondents believe that companies should take a proactive and transparent approach to addressing global environmental challenges.
This indicates that Cambodian consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of corporate responsibility for environmental sustainability and expect companies to take a leading position in adopting sustainable practices.
Dimitri Nauwelaerts, Country Representative & Regional Commercial Manager of ADD (Asia Data Destruction) said of the growing interest and awareness of environmental issues in Cambodia, “Even though it might only be a small percentage, many foreign-owned companies are investing in better sustainable manufacturing processes. These include factories using renewable energy, and innovative waste management systems like waste-to-energy.”
Consumer awareness and behaviour play a vital role in achieving environmental sustainability. If individuals make informed choices and support environmentally friendly products and services, they actively contribute to reducing environmental degradation.
Educating the public about the importance of sustainable consumption and encouraging responsible consumer behaviour is crucial for a fundamental change.
A majority of Cambodians (59.6%) also expressed in the report that they believe that their own efforts to sustain the environment will have a significant impact on whether or not the planet gets better, or becomes worse.
When asked about sustainability-driven measures, more than half responded that they have avoided food wastage (56.4%), while 32.8% preferred to walk, bike, or use public transportation when commuting. Even 23.7% of Cambodians have separated and sorted garbage which is impressive when the local refuse services don't distinguish between plastics, glass and general waste.
Cambodians’ sentiments on sustainability-driven actions that they have been involved in over the past 12 months, showed that 42.3% had bought products or services based on the sole purpose of supporting eco-friendly and ethical practices. Remarkably, nearly one quarter (24.9%) have boycotted or stopped buying from non-environmentally friendly or non-ethical brands.
Cambodia is at an environmental crossroads. While the country and its people face significant challenges (deforestation, water and coastal pollution, and plastic waste), there has been evidence that there is a move towards sustainability.
The Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, growing consumer awareness, sustainable practices, investment in renewable energy, and the promotion of responsible consumer behaviour suggest Cambodia can preserve its vital ecosystems, and biodiversity, and embark on a greener and more resilient future for its people and the planet.
Cambodia is facing a number of environmental challenges, and due to its rapid economic growth over the past decade, the Kingdom is facing increased deforestation, air pollution, and water scarcity, in addition to the global environmental issues of climate change.
These environmental challenges are having a serious impact on the health and well-being of those living in Cambodia.
There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainability in Cambodia and the government is trying to tackle these environmental challenges, while non-governmental organisations work to promote sustainable development.
At all levels of industry, there are attempts to promote sustainable business practices that contribute to a positive environmental footprint
What are the environmental challenges in Cambodia and what pathways to sustainability are there? Using findings from the latest Consumer Report Cambodia 2023, a joint effort with the local agency Standard Insights that gathered data from over 1,000 respondents, we gained a deeper understanding of their views towards sustainability.
We also examine the roles of the government, businesses, and individuals in fostering and promoting sustainability in Cambodia.
Cambodia is located in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) of Southeast Asia which is known for its ample natural beauty and rich biodiversity. There are very significant environmental challenges that threaten Cambodia's precious ecosystems and the diverse flora, fauna, and people that rely on them.
Cambodia has been grappling with extensive deforestation stemming from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and rapid urbanisation. These factors have had a significant impact on the natural ecosystems, resulting in the loss of biodiversity, increased carbon emissions, as well as the displacement of wildlife (in some cases advancing the extinction of rare species) due to the destruction of vital habitats such as wetlands, forests, and mangroves.
Deforestation also extends to impacting indigenous communities, jeopardising their cultural survival and livelihoods. In 2022, Cambodia lost approximately 100,000 hectares of natural forest and the resulting release of 58.4 million metric tons of CO₂.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to combat illegal logging, protect the forests, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the rights and well-being of indigenous communities, while also mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
Water pollution in Cambodia affects both inland and coastal areas, and the main causes are agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and inadequate sewage treatment. These lead to the contamination of natural water sources and pose a threat to aquatic life and impact local communities' livelihoods.
Vital ecosystems found along Cambodia’s once pristine coastline, such as mangrove forests, are constantly under threat from sediment runoff caused by deforestation, which includes hazardous pesticides and fertilisers.
One example is poorly regulated shrimp farms which lead to mangrove clearance and the release of excess nutrients - this disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem and promotes the overgrowth of algae. These combined factors pose significant challenges to the sustainability and well-being of Cambodia's coastal regions and natural water supplies.
The surge in solid waste, particularly plastic waste, is another area of concern in Cambodia. Driven by rapid population growth and economic development, the urban areas and cities such as the capital of Phnom Penh face an uptick in the daily generation of more than 3,500 tons of municipal waste, while about 80% of this is being collected and disposed of at open dump sites near the city.
Urban and rural areas which lack proper and efficient waste collection services lead to the open burning of waste, while the remaining waste finds its way onto streets and local waterways, carrying plastic debris into natural water supply and rivers.
The consequences of plastic waste pollution are drastic - both environmentally and economically. Major urban and economic hubs (Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville for example) suffer from being exposed to increased flooding risks as waterways become blocked by plastic waste, the clogging of sewage and drainage systems.
The burning of plastics releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and poses significant public health risks and needs to be addressed to mitigate the detrimental impacts of plastic waste on the Kingdom’s environment, economy, and public health and development.
According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Cambodia's energy sources consist of fuel wood and other biomass contributing approximately 44.4% to the total primary energy supply. Oil and petroleum products account for approximately 38.5%, while coal makes up around 10.7%. Hydropower, a renewable energy source, only represents 3.6% of the energy supply, and electricity imports contribute approximately 2.8%.
In terms of total energy consumption, Cambodia has undergone significant growth due to increased access to energy and the demands of its economic development and diversification. The average annual increase was 6.9% between 2010 and 2015
In 2015, the energy consumption breakdown in Cambodia was: petroleum products (50.5%) constituted the largest share, biomass 36.0%, electricity 13.1%, and coal represented a modest 0.4% of the total.
This data provides an overview of the energy landscape of Cambodia, with biomass and petroleum products playing substantial roles in powering the country.
However, it is worth noting the growing importance of renewable sources like hydropower and the need for effective management and sustainable development of Cambodia's energy sector in the future.
Aligned with the Paris Agreement, Cambodia unveiled its Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality (LTS4CN) in February 2022. This strategic roadmap outlines priority actions which target a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
The LTS4CN demonstrates Cambodia's commitment to global climate goals and serves as a visionary policy tool to guide decisions without replacing existing national and sectoral strategies and provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable development involving all relevant stakeholders.
Corporations operating in Cambodia have a crucial role to play in driving environmental sustainability.
By adopting sustainable practices, which include reducing energy consumption, implementing effective waste management systems, and minimising ecological footprints, commercial enterprises can make a significant positive impact on Cambodia’s future. Embracing corporate social responsibility not only benefits the environment but also enhances brand reputation and fosters long-term profitability.
The recent report suggested that a majority of 61.7% of respondents believe that companies should take a proactive and transparent approach to addressing global environmental challenges.
This indicates that Cambodian consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of corporate responsibility for environmental sustainability and expect companies to take a leading position in adopting sustainable practices.
Dimitri Nauwelaerts, Country Representative & Regional Commercial Manager of ADD (Asia Data Destruction) said of the growing interest and awareness of environmental issues in Cambodia, “Even though it might only be a small percentage, many foreign-owned companies are investing in better sustainable manufacturing processes. These include factories using renewable energy, and innovative waste management systems like waste-to-energy.”
Consumer awareness and behaviour play a vital role in achieving environmental sustainability. If individuals make informed choices and support environmentally friendly products and services, they actively contribute to reducing environmental degradation.
Educating the public about the importance of sustainable consumption and encouraging responsible consumer behaviour is crucial for a fundamental change.
A majority of Cambodians (59.6%) also expressed in the report that they believe that their own efforts to sustain the environment will have a significant impact on whether or not the planet gets better, or becomes worse.
When asked about sustainability-driven measures, more than half responded that they have avoided food wastage (56.4%), while 32.8% preferred to walk, bike, or use public transportation when commuting. Even 23.7% of Cambodians have separated and sorted garbage which is impressive when the local refuse services don't distinguish between plastics, glass and general waste.
Cambodians’ sentiments on sustainability-driven actions that they have been involved in over the past 12 months, showed that 42.3% had bought products or services based on the sole purpose of supporting eco-friendly and ethical practices. Remarkably, nearly one quarter (24.9%) have boycotted or stopped buying from non-environmentally friendly or non-ethical brands.
Cambodia is at an environmental crossroads. While the country and its people face significant challenges (deforestation, water and coastal pollution, and plastic waste), there has been evidence that there is a move towards sustainability.
The Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, growing consumer awareness, sustainable practices, investment in renewable energy, and the promotion of responsible consumer behaviour suggest Cambodia can preserve its vital ecosystems, and biodiversity, and embark on a greener and more resilient future for its people and the planet.
Cambodia is facing a number of environmental challenges, and due to its rapid economic growth over the past decade, the Kingdom is facing increased deforestation, air pollution, and water scarcity, in addition to the global environmental issues of climate change.
These environmental challenges are having a serious impact on the health and well-being of those living in Cambodia.
There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainability in Cambodia and the government is trying to tackle these environmental challenges, while non-governmental organisations work to promote sustainable development.
At all levels of industry, there are attempts to promote sustainable business practices that contribute to a positive environmental footprint
What are the environmental challenges in Cambodia and what pathways to sustainability are there? Using findings from the latest Consumer Report Cambodia 2023, a joint effort with the local agency Standard Insights that gathered data from over 1,000 respondents, we gained a deeper understanding of their views towards sustainability.
We also examine the roles of the government, businesses, and individuals in fostering and promoting sustainability in Cambodia.
Cambodia is located in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) of Southeast Asia which is known for its ample natural beauty and rich biodiversity. There are very significant environmental challenges that threaten Cambodia's precious ecosystems and the diverse flora, fauna, and people that rely on them.
Cambodia has been grappling with extensive deforestation stemming from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and rapid urbanisation. These factors have had a significant impact on the natural ecosystems, resulting in the loss of biodiversity, increased carbon emissions, as well as the displacement of wildlife (in some cases advancing the extinction of rare species) due to the destruction of vital habitats such as wetlands, forests, and mangroves.
Deforestation also extends to impacting indigenous communities, jeopardising their cultural survival and livelihoods. In 2022, Cambodia lost approximately 100,000 hectares of natural forest and the resulting release of 58.4 million metric tons of CO₂.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to combat illegal logging, protect the forests, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the rights and well-being of indigenous communities, while also mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
Water pollution in Cambodia affects both inland and coastal areas, and the main causes are agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and inadequate sewage treatment. These lead to the contamination of natural water sources and pose a threat to aquatic life and impact local communities' livelihoods.
Vital ecosystems found along Cambodia’s once pristine coastline, such as mangrove forests, are constantly under threat from sediment runoff caused by deforestation, which includes hazardous pesticides and fertilisers.
One example is poorly regulated shrimp farms which lead to mangrove clearance and the release of excess nutrients - this disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem and promotes the overgrowth of algae. These combined factors pose significant challenges to the sustainability and well-being of Cambodia's coastal regions and natural water supplies.
The surge in solid waste, particularly plastic waste, is another area of concern in Cambodia. Driven by rapid population growth and economic development, the urban areas and cities such as the capital of Phnom Penh face an uptick in the daily generation of more than 3,500 tons of municipal waste, while about 80% of this is being collected and disposed of at open dump sites near the city.
Urban and rural areas which lack proper and efficient waste collection services lead to the open burning of waste, while the remaining waste finds its way onto streets and local waterways, carrying plastic debris into natural water supply and rivers.
The consequences of plastic waste pollution are drastic - both environmentally and economically. Major urban and economic hubs (Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville for example) suffer from being exposed to increased flooding risks as waterways become blocked by plastic waste, the clogging of sewage and drainage systems.
The burning of plastics releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and poses significant public health risks and needs to be addressed to mitigate the detrimental impacts of plastic waste on the Kingdom’s environment, economy, and public health and development.
According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Cambodia's energy sources consist of fuel wood and other biomass contributing approximately 44.4% to the total primary energy supply. Oil and petroleum products account for approximately 38.5%, while coal makes up around 10.7%. Hydropower, a renewable energy source, only represents 3.6% of the energy supply, and electricity imports contribute approximately 2.8%.
In terms of total energy consumption, Cambodia has undergone significant growth due to increased access to energy and the demands of its economic development and diversification. The average annual increase was 6.9% between 2010 and 2015
In 2015, the energy consumption breakdown in Cambodia was: petroleum products (50.5%) constituted the largest share, biomass 36.0%, electricity 13.1%, and coal represented a modest 0.4% of the total.
This data provides an overview of the energy landscape of Cambodia, with biomass and petroleum products playing substantial roles in powering the country.
However, it is worth noting the growing importance of renewable sources like hydropower and the need for effective management and sustainable development of Cambodia's energy sector in the future.
Aligned with the Paris Agreement, Cambodia unveiled its Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality (LTS4CN) in February 2022. This strategic roadmap outlines priority actions which target a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
The LTS4CN demonstrates Cambodia's commitment to global climate goals and serves as a visionary policy tool to guide decisions without replacing existing national and sectoral strategies and provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable development involving all relevant stakeholders.
Corporations operating in Cambodia have a crucial role to play in driving environmental sustainability.
By adopting sustainable practices, which include reducing energy consumption, implementing effective waste management systems, and minimising ecological footprints, commercial enterprises can make a significant positive impact on Cambodia’s future. Embracing corporate social responsibility not only benefits the environment but also enhances brand reputation and fosters long-term profitability.
The recent report suggested that a majority of 61.7% of respondents believe that companies should take a proactive and transparent approach to addressing global environmental challenges.
This indicates that Cambodian consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of corporate responsibility for environmental sustainability and expect companies to take a leading position in adopting sustainable practices.
Dimitri Nauwelaerts, Country Representative & Regional Commercial Manager of ADD (Asia Data Destruction) said of the growing interest and awareness of environmental issues in Cambodia, “Even though it might only be a small percentage, many foreign-owned companies are investing in better sustainable manufacturing processes. These include factories using renewable energy, and innovative waste management systems like waste-to-energy.”
Consumer awareness and behaviour play a vital role in achieving environmental sustainability. If individuals make informed choices and support environmentally friendly products and services, they actively contribute to reducing environmental degradation.
Educating the public about the importance of sustainable consumption and encouraging responsible consumer behaviour is crucial for a fundamental change.
A majority of Cambodians (59.6%) also expressed in the report that they believe that their own efforts to sustain the environment will have a significant impact on whether or not the planet gets better, or becomes worse.
When asked about sustainability-driven measures, more than half responded that they have avoided food wastage (56.4%), while 32.8% preferred to walk, bike, or use public transportation when commuting. Even 23.7% of Cambodians have separated and sorted garbage which is impressive when the local refuse services don't distinguish between plastics, glass and general waste.
Cambodians’ sentiments on sustainability-driven actions that they have been involved in over the past 12 months, showed that 42.3% had bought products or services based on the sole purpose of supporting eco-friendly and ethical practices. Remarkably, nearly one quarter (24.9%) have boycotted or stopped buying from non-environmentally friendly or non-ethical brands.
Cambodia is at an environmental crossroads. While the country and its people face significant challenges (deforestation, water and coastal pollution, and plastic waste), there has been evidence that there is a move towards sustainability.
The Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, growing consumer awareness, sustainable practices, investment in renewable energy, and the promotion of responsible consumer behaviour suggest Cambodia can preserve its vital ecosystems, and biodiversity, and embark on a greener and more resilient future for its people and the planet.
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