The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), in collaboration with the Royal University of Agriculture (RUA), observed World Environment Day on June 5, with the aim of engaging with future environmental practitioners and policymakers and inspiring them to take active roles in land restoration and environmental sustainability.

The event was held at the RAU in Phnom Penh, under the slogan “#GenerationRestoration: Our Land, Our Future”.

It brought together students, faculty members, representatives from government institutions, development agencies, environmental and youth organisations, with a focus on environmental advocacy, said an FAO in Cambodia press release, obtained by The Post on June 6. 

“The event featured a dynamic panel discussion titled “Our Land, Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration”, with representatives from the government, development sector, academia and youth-based organisations sharing strategies and insights into land restoration and resilience building,” it added.

The panel discussion also centred on the role of the media and social media influencers in engaging with youth on critical environmental issues, including this year’s theme of “Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience”.

“Today’s youth are the stewards of tomorrow’s environment. Their engagement is crucial for sustainable land management and resilience against climate challenges. 

"We must empower young people to take action and lead the way in environmental restoration efforts. Their innovative ideas and energy are vital for creating a sustainable future,” Seng Vang, director of the Departmentof Agricultural Land Resources at the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries, was quoted as saying in the press release. 

Venerable Kou Sopheap from Kol Torteung Pagoda also joined the event, with the goal of inspiring the youth to work towards a better environment, added the release. 

RUA students presented innovative ideas on land restoration and sustainable agriculture, showcasing the potential of Cambodia’s youth to drive environmental change, it explained.

Every year on June 5, the world observes World Environment Day, a day used to raise awareness of urgent environmental issues and inspire action. 

This year’s theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” highlighted the urgent need to restore degraded land, combat desertification, and enhance drought resilience for a sustainable future.