Cambodia Promotes Youth-Led Awareness Campaigns for Forest Protection

The Governor of Banteay Meanchey Province, Um Ratry, has urged youth to play a leading role in awareness campaigns about the importance of forest protection. This initiative is based on the recognition that deforestation leads to significant disasters for the planet, including climate change, global warming, droughts, forest fires, loss of biodiversity, and severe storms and floods that cause damage to property and life. This call to action was made during the celebration of the 9th World Forestry Day on July 30, 2026. At the event, 300 ornamental trees were planted along National Road No. 5, and an additional 1,000 saplings were distributed to government ministries, departments, districts, and citizens. Governor Um Ratry emphasized that while forest loss brings immense disasters, abundant forests help avoid these calamities and improve the environment. He further stated that planting trees can also contribute to economic development, suggesting the cultivation of valuable local tree species and fast-growing varieties on degraded land or for commercial purposes. He appealed to all citizens, including monks, government agencies, armed forces, local authorities, and the general public, to actively participate in reforestation efforts. This includes planting trees in temples, public spaces, office compounds, hospitals, schools, along public roads, or even establishing tree farms for business. According to Mrs. On Sitha, Acting Director of the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, the provincial celebration of World Forestry Day in Kbal Spean village, Preah Ponlea commune, Seriphos City, saw 1,000 ornamental trees (Kngok) planted on both sides of National Road No. 5. Additionally, 1,000 saplings were prepared for distribution to the public, including species like Beng, Thnung, Krong, Tual, Kokir, Phiak, and Trabek Prey. Mrs. Sitha also reported that from the beginning of 2026 until July, the Banteay Meanchey Forestry Administration had nurtured 20,200 saplings. These included Thnung (5,800), Krong (3,700), Tual (5,000), Kokir (1,500), Trabek Prey (1,500), and Jar (2,700). A total of 20,132 saplings were provided to monks, various organizations, and citizens. In collaboration with forest community committees, 12,800 trees were planted, including Trabek Prey, Kngok, and Pring Khai. This initiative aligns with the Cambodian government's broader environmental protection agenda, aiming to foster a national movement for sustainable development and enhance environmental awareness, particularly among the youth. In the context of Cambodia's relations with China, balancing economic development with environmental conservation remains a key challenge, and such domestic efforts to raise environmental consciousness could influence international perceptions.