Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth launched the “Clean Cambodia” campaign on February 20, building on the success of the “Today I Do Not Use Plastic” initiative, demonstrating the ministry’s commitment to maintaining Cambodia’s cleanliness.
Sophalleth stated the initial effort engaged approximately five million individuals, including students, teachers, garment workers, members of the Cambodian Red Cross (CRC), local authorities, leaders from various ministries and institutions and local residents, as reported by the ministry.
“We would like to request people across the country, especially the youth and students, to take 10 to 15 minutes to collect rubbish and clean up their houses and schools to maintain a clean Cambodia. Please do not litter,” he urged.
He noted that as the first phase of the campaign had gained such widespread support, the ministry now plans to distribute dustbins to schools and educate students on separating recyclables.
“The campaign aims to instil in our youth and the populace the habit of separating rubbish and reducing litter,” the minister explained.
While inspecting the river cleanup effort in front of the Royal Palace, Sophalleth mentioned that on March 1, the new campaign would be initiated, starting with the Tonle Sap River, which is heavily littered.
He emphasised that the drive’s primary goal aims to prevent plastic from entering the river to ensure the survival of fish.
“We don’t want to lose fish populations due to the pollution caused by garbage and plastics. When plastic enters the river, it causes environmental damage. Fish feed on the plastic and when people consume these fish, it adversely affects their health,” he stated.
“We must prevent trash from entering the [river] from canals and creeks, ensuring it does not become a dumpsite for rubbish or plastic,” he added.
Sophalleth noted that the ministry would continue working with partners to develop additional aquatic cleanup machines, hoping to keep the river clean, attract tourists and preserve natural resources for future generations.
Chum Huot, president of the Lover Environment and Society Association, said that the ministry’s launch of another programme motivates people to clean the environment and their homes in communes and raises awareness about proper packaging and disposal of waste.
He noted that the effort aims to maintain cleanliness in public spaces and homes, fostering a love for the environment and promoting greener surroundings across the country.
“It is indeed a commendable effort that effectively implements rubbish management policies in urban areas. The campaign is set to improve our environment in the future by reducing plastic usage and enhancing public knowledge on waste management,” he added.