Sihanoukville Province Promotes Household Waste and Plastic Separation to Improve Residents' Livelihoods

Sihanoukville Province in southwestern Cambodia is strengthening its initiatives to promote the separation of household and plastic waste, aiming to improve residents' livelihoods and beautify the local environment. On September 17, 2026, Governor Mang Sineth led a meeting concerning the separation of household and plastic waste in densely populated areas of Sihanoukville city. Key discussions included encouraging separation in households and communities, promoting the collection of plastic waste, and plans for installing trash bins in public spaces along the coast. The provincial administration emphasized the need to take the lead in waste separation at all locations, including homes, restaurants, hotels, and markets, to change residents' habits. Specifically, a partnership has been established with Everwave company for plastic waste, which will purchase water bottles at 500 riels per kilogram and general plastics at 300 riels per kilogram. Furthermore, beer and beverage manufacturers are being urged to take responsibility for collecting their empty bottles. "Waste management is everyone's responsibility, essential for making our region beautiful, clean, and comfortable. By separating household and plastic waste, management becomes easier, and we can reduce plastic waste within the city, which can lead to expansion into other districts," stated the Governor. The province plans to conduct extensive public awareness campaigns to deepen understanding of separation methods and ensure proper waste management and separation at homes, restaurants, hotels, and cafes. Governor Mang Sineth instructed relevant departments to develop an implementation plan for proper waste management and separation, particularly for plastic and household waste, after providing sufficient awareness periods for residents. The separation of plastic waste is also expected to reduce the volume of waste transported to landfills. Source: AKP Khmer