New Environmental Code Launched to Bolster Conservation and Sustainable Development

Summary:
The Ministry of Environment officially launched the "Code of Environment and Natural Resources" to enhance environmental protection and sustainable development after six years of drafting and legislative approval. The launch event, presided over by Minister Eang Sophalleth, was attended by various officials, diplomats, and civil society representatives. The Code, which came into force last year, integrates and harmonizes environmental regulations, aligning them with governmental roles and responsibilities.
The Minister highlighted the first phase of the Pentagonal Strategy, focusing on environmental management reforms and setting five key targets: reducing pollution, managing protected areas, promoting environmental education, modernizing practices, and advancing green diplomacy. The Circular Strategy on Environment (2023-2028) was also launched, aiming for "clean," "green," and "sustainable" goals, targeting carbon neutrality by 2050.
Several environmental initiatives were discussed, including campaigns to reduce plastic usage, promote garbage collection, plant trees annually, and raise climate awareness. These efforts aim to address complex environmental issues through enhanced technical and institutional capacity, cooperation, and resource mobilization.