The Ministry of Environment along with several provincial departments launched an educational campaign to commemorate National Environment Day and World Environment Day.
The campaign utilised short videos to foster an appreciation for the environment and biodiversity among government officials, local communities and children.
The observance, held on June 5, coincided with the 74th International Children’s Day, with the World Day Against Child Labour on June 12 and Cambodian Children’s Day 2023 were added to the event.
The ministry introduced several programmes for the Choam Thlok protected community in Kampong Thom province, aiming to impart environmental knowledge to educators, parents, and pupils.
It was organised in collaboration with Kampong Thom Provincial Department of Environment, the Regional Community Forestry Training Center for Asia and the Pacific Cambodia (RECOFTC), and the Heinrich Böll Cambodia Foundation, with Environment Ministry undersecretary of State Prum Sophy in attendance.
“Our objective is to instil a sense of responsibility in children towards environmental conservation. They are the future custodians of our natural resources. This programme also encourages children to appreciate the environment and its immense value,” said the environment ministry.
Kampot provincial department of environment also celebrated National and World Environment Day with the theme “Ecological Restoration”. Over 400 attendees graced the event, including provincial officials, military personnel, youths, educators, students, fishermen’s associations, and representatives from private companies and NGOs.
“These observances aim to instil environmental consciousness among the public, students, armed forces and government officials. It encourages preservation of the environment, beautification of towns, schools, and hospitals, thereby enhancing public well-being,” said the provincial environment department director Eng Polo.
“Natural resources are critical to maintaining air quality and climate equilibrium. Hence, it is imperative we all contribute, both directly and indirectly,” he added.
Kun Sophea, deputy governor of Kampong Cham province, emphasised the importance of this year’s theme in spreading awareness about ecological restoration and addressing issues like climate change, food security, water supply and biodiversity.
“Earth’s ecosystems are under threat due to over-exploitation and climate change. We must unite to conserve and restore ecosystems, economise energy, use water efficiently, and avoid food wastage,” he said.
Every year, on June 5, Cambodia celebrates National and World Environment Day to heighten public awareness of environmental issues and motivate individuals and communities to champion the environment collectively and sustainably.
