Cambodia Observes World Ozone Day, Reiterates Commitment to Climate Action

Cambodia observed World Ozone Day on September 4, 2026, in Siem Reap province, under the theme "The Montreal Protocol: Global Action for a Cooler Planet." The event aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of the ozone layer for life on Earth and to encourage stronger participation in its protection and in mitigating global warming. The observance was attended by monks, government officials from provincial departments, students, scouts, and numerous youth from the Cambodian Red Cross. H.E. Sabo Ozano, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Environment, stated that this year's theme celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and reflects the significance of global efforts in protecting the ozone layer and addressing climate change. He emphasized the importance of science-based policies, cooperation, innovation, and partnerships among nations. He further highlighted that ozone layer protection and climate change mitigation are closely interconnected. While hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) do not deplete the ozone layer, they possess a high global warming potential. Reducing the use of HFCs, improving energy efficiency, and adopting sustainable cooling solutions can significantly contribute to curbing the rise in global temperatures. The commemoration also served to inform the public about the vital role of the ozone layer for life on the planet and to foster greater commitment to its preservation and to reducing global warming. This endeavor is crucial for safeguarding the environment, biodiversity, public health, food security, and sustainable development. Since 1995, the Ozone Secretariat of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has designated September 16 annually as World Ozone Day to commemorate the establishment of the Montreal Protocol and to celebrate the progress achieved in protecting the ozone layer and combating global warming. These agreements are considered exemplary models of scientists, diplomats, and politicians working together to resolve global environmental challenges. As a party to the Montreal Protocol, Cambodia has actively participated in phasing out chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) entirely by 2010. The country is also implementing its Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) management plan for the phase-out of HCFCs and its Kigali Amendment implementation plan to reduce HFCs, in line with its obligations under the protocol. Recently, the Kingdom of Cambodia adopted the "Environment and Natural Resources Code" and the "Environmental Sector Strategy 2023-2028," which outlines three key strategies: cleanliness, greenness, and sustainability. Among these, air cleanliness has been identified as a significant priority alongside other important objectives. Source: AKP Khmer