UNICEF Backs Cambodia's Green Agenda as Plastic Imports Fall 85%

PHNOM PENH — Oct. 6, 2026: UNICEF has reaffirmed its support for Cambodia's environmental strategy, as the Kingdom reported an 85 percent drop in plastic imports over the past year.

Ms. Maha Damaj, UNICEF's new Representative in Cambodia, said the organisation will continue backing the Ministry of Environment's Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028, supporting cleanliness, green growth, sustainability and climate response.

She spoke during a meeting with Environment Minister H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth on Oct. 6, 2026, at the Ministry.

Photo: Ministry of Environment
The Minister credited the Ministry's "Today, I Don't Use Plastic Bags" campaign, which drew around 15 million participants including students, with commitments to avoid plastic bags at least once a week. He said waste bins are being supplied to schools to build proper waste management habits among children and youth.

Beyond waste, Eang Sophalleth outlined cooperation on protected area law enforcement, forest protection, community livelihoods and reforestation, aimed at expanding green cover and reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. He said the Ministry is preparing for the El Niño phenomenon and will press for equitable climate finance for least developed countries at COP31 in Türkiye.

Source: Ministry of Environment


Reported by The Khmer Daily Network