Joining the global campaign to plant trees for a sustainable environment and combat the threatening climate change, some 10,000 trees will be planted in Siem Reap starting August 3.

The campaign is being launched at a time when Cambodia and the rest of the world are grappling with the risks of climate change – from rising oceans to high temperatures – which is impacting crops, wildlife, human beings and frequent outbreak of diseases.

The tree planting campaign themed “We jointly heal wounds of the earth” was initiated by social activist Tan Kimsour and supported by Siem Reap Tourism Club (STC). The pre-launch of the campaign was held on July 10 in Siem Reap.

“The tree planting campaign is an inspiration to protect our planet because this planet belongs to all of us, so we have an obligation to take care and protect it,” said Kimsour.

A total of 100,000 trees will be planted, namely luxury wood such as Phchek, Beng, Neang Nuon, Kra Nhoung and it will be done in stages over the next five years.

The initial planting will take place at Prey Totueng Tngai, Boeung Mealea village, Boeung Mealea commune, Svay Leu district, Siem Reap province.

Philip Kao, president of STC said the campaign is vital for the country and all stakeholders need to collaborate to make it a successful initiative to protect the environment.

“Government through its ministries and departments has planted trees in each province. So, in this event we want to emphasise that tree planting involves both the government and the private sector, which aims to have more trees [planted] in our country,” added Philip

He urged the government to encourage local authorities to plant more trees and at the same time clamp down on illegal deforestation.

In addition, Philip said tree planting campaign should be part of primary school curriculum to promote awareness of the environment and the risks of climate change.

“Thus, in order to support the ecosystem, there is a great need for people to be involved [in this project], and it is necessary. If there is more participation, it [campaign] will be more effective,” he added.

Trees play a vital role in the ecosystem. Trees helps draw carbon dioxide from the air and emit oxygen, reduce climate change effects and curb heating, say experts.

Borei Pat, area manager of Booking.com, said people are aware that forest reserves all over the world are depleting and it is time for every citizen to seriously take note of the suffering environment.

“We have two clear objectives – first, we plant trees as a legacy for this generation and the next generation. Second, we want to inspire people to be aware of tree planting,” he said

Under the campaign, trees will be planted at public places such as pagodas and schools.

“We want to plant trees at every pagoda and every school all over the country to inspire people to love trees and inform the public on the benefits of trees to human beings."

“So far, we have received a lot of support from the local authorities, [government] departments and the Ministry of Environment,” added Borei.