Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth visited the Tatai Krom protected area in Koh Kong province on September 3. ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY
During a visit to the Tatai Krom protected area on September 3, Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth urged community residents to plant trees, restore forests, and increase their participation in forest protection efforts.
The aim is to increase forest cover and eventually trade carbon offset credits to generate community income.
Sophalleth underscored the importance of planting trees for both environmental sustainability and community livelihoods.
“Revenue generated from selling carbon credits will contribute to infrastructure development and provide additional income opportunities from tourism,” he said, via social media.
Tep Mala, head of the Tatai Krom community in Koh Kong province, highlighted that community involvement in natural resource conservation has led to a decrease in deforestation.
“This area attracts numerous domestic and international visitors who come to enjoy our natural resources, including waterfalls, canal-side landscapes, ancient villages, and eco-tourism activities that generate income for the community,” he said.
With regard to tree planting efforts, King Norodom Sihamoni recently called on all Cambodians to protect the Kingdom’s forests and wildlife, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
The King also emphasised the significant role of forests in preventing natural disasters. He issued the call during a Royal Arbor Day Ceremony held in Kraing Leav commune’s O’Kakhop village in Kampong Chhang province’s Samaki Meanchey district on July 9.
Tree planting to generate income from carbon credit sales aligns with the environment ministry’s efforts to adhere to the first phase of the government’s ‘Pentagonal Strategy’ for achieving an average annual economic growth rate of around seven per cent with resilience to crises.
According to the ministry, the Tatai Krom community was officially recognised this year on July 19. The community comprises 177 families, who reside in Anlong Vak and Koh Andet villages of Koh Kong district’s Tatai Krom commune.
The community covers a total area of 97.3ha which boasts natural assets such as forests, mangroves, waterfalls, canal-side landscapes, ancient villages, and ocean fishing opportunities. These attractions draw a significant number of visitors.
