Department shaping eco-friendly future
THE Ministry of Environment’s General Department of Environmental Protection is charting its course for 2024. Plans include fortifying waste management, modernising environmental quality management for land, air, noise, and construction-related vibration in addition to advancing waste management policies.
The direction for 2024 was set during a December 13 conference, reviewing environmental progress made in 2023. Chaired by ministry secretaries of state Tea Chub and Sabo Ojano, the event included participants from various units, both national and international.
Danh Serey, director general of the general department, noted the conference’s purpose: sharing 2023 accomplishments, addressing challenges and outlining plans for 2024. This aligns with the Pentagonal StrategyPhase I within the Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 framework, as announced by the ministry on December 13.
He said that the department is focused on three strategic goals—promoting public health, conserving biodiversity and preventing pollution.
This involves strengthening waste management systems, modernising environmental quality management and advocating for urban solid waste management policies.
Chub commended the department’s efforts while maintaining a special focus on advancing public health.
“We’ve been working hard to tackle challenges in environmental protection,
natural resource management, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. It’s all about benefiting both the present and future generations while actively contributing to global solutions for the wellbeing of the world and humanity,” he said.
He also mentioned that within the ministry’s priority tasks, environmental protection always takes a crucial spot, receiving significant attention.
Heng Kimhong, programme and advocacy manager at the Cambodian Youth Network (CYN), stated that in Cambodia, addressing the context of trash and waste remains a priority, and finding effective solutions is paramount.
“We need to view waste management as a shared concern. Everyone, from citizens to governments, should collaborate. By implementing policies and legal measures, including penalties, we can work together to prevent open littering,” he said.
Kimhong raised concerns, particularly regarding the release of chemical, industrial and biological wastes. He stressed the need for effective protection mechanisms, with a special call for involvement from local authorities. On the topic of water quality, he urged the government to manage the wastewater system properly, recognising its impact on people’s wellbeing.
During the workshop, participants discussed gathering inputs and solutions to shape the direction of environmental protection. This information will be essential for reviewing the results of the ministry’s work and implementing future plans at the next meeting scheduled for December 20–21.