The installation of an automated waste monitoring system at Phoenix Industrial Company in Battambang province on August 30. Environment Ministry
The Ministry of Environment is currently installing automatic monitoring devices to track liquid waste discharges from factories, following requests from over 100 enterprises and factories.
The initiative marks a step towards modernising remote environmental pollution control, according to the Ministry of Environment.
Ministry spokesperson Khvay Atiya highlighted that the installation of these devices aims to prevent leaks or illegal discharges of toxic waste into natural water sources. The ministry is urging all factories operating in Cambodia to install these systems in compliance with environmental codes and legal standards. Factories that fail to comply will face legal consequences, he added.
"So far, 111 factories have requested the ministry to install these automated monitoring devices. We have gradually begun implementing them throughout the special economic zone [SEZ] in Svay Rieng province and at a pharmaceutical packaging factory in Battambang province," Atiya said.
He emphasised that these systems are essential tools that facilitate the timely monitoring and enforcement of pollution control. Once installed, there is no need for specialists to conduct on-site inspections, as all data is automatically transmitted to the ministry's data management system, he said. If any technical problems occur, the device sends an immediate alert to the ministry, he added.
Atiya stressed that once these automated systems are fully installed in all designated factories, it will be next to impossible for them to illegally discharge toxic substances or wastewater into rivers and streams.
He added that in the coming weeks, the team will continue installing the devices in other factories, in a collaborative effort between the enterprises and the ministry.
Environment minister Eang Sophalleth noted that the monitoring equipment not only provides environmental benefits but also enhances public health.
"These devices are not costly, but the price of pollution is much higher as it directly affects public health, especially for residents living near these factories. Additionally, it impacts the health of workers employed there," he said.
"If we can ensure good health for workers and maintain a clean environment, we will achieve sustainable development and attract better investments. This way, we all win, leading Cambodia toward a cleaner, more hygienic and sustainable future," he added.
However, the ministry spokesperson could not specify the exact number of factories or the cost of the devices.
According to Atiya, the modernisation of monitoring at factory sites, which are sources of high-risk waste discharge (liquid and fumes), is intended to strengthen law enforcement. Additionally, it reduces the need for on-site inspections by specialists.
He said that requiring these systems at all pollution sources enables precise measurement of pollutant quantities and levels, with data sent directly to the ministry via an online system.
Atiya highlighted that the effort significantly improves the efficiency of managing liquid waste and air pollutants, eliminating illegal discharges and reducing pollution levels beyond standard limits.
He said it also provides accurate and timely data, enabling prompt action to prevent environmental impact. In the past, most pollution cases were reported through media, social networks or public complaints, he added.
The Phnom Penh municipal environment department is also promoting the use of these devices in factories, particularly larger ones that discharge high volumes of liquid waste.
“This is a directive from the ministry that must be implemented; it is not just an advisory. We have been advocating for this for four or five years already. To ensure the safety and quality of water for the benefit of the public, we must push for this implementation," said municipal environment department director Keat Rangsey.
According to the ministry, the Phoenix Industrial Company in Battambang – which was previously fined by the ministry for discharging hazardous liquid waste – installed the devices on August 30.
The installation of automated monitoring systems at the pharmaceutical packaging factory is a strict measure aimed at preventing and eliminating concerns about leaks or illegal discharges of toxic wastewater. The systems are linked to a data management network and are intended to protect the Sangke River, a vital water source connected to Tonle Sap Lake, as per the ministry.
