Cambodia's Kandal Province Faces Health Concerns After Lithium Battery Waste Fire

A large-scale fire at the XINSHENG SHENG METAL MATERIALS INDUSTRIAL PARKS CO.,Ltd, a metal recycling facility in Kampong Speu province, Cambodia, has raised concerns about potential health impacts on residents, according to the Ministry of Environment. A team of experts from the ministry has inspected the site and believes the fire was caused by improper management of lithium battery waste, leading to adverse effects on the environment and wildlife. The fire, which broke out on July 29, continued to emit heavy smoke and explosions from battery waste as of the evening of July 30, making it difficult for the expert team to access the site. Residential homes are located approximately 50 meters from the fire site, and a chicken farm with around 20,000 chickens is situated about 10 meters away. Over 2,000 chickens have reportedly died since the incident. Initial investigations by the Ministry of Environment have confirmed high levels of air pollution around the fire site. The expert team is currently continuing to collect and analyze air pollutant samples from the surrounding areas. Immediate health protection measures have been issued to residents, advising them to avoid non-essential travel, wear appropriate masks when outdoors, and protect water sources and food from contamination. Particular attention is being paid to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory illnesses, with calls for immediate medical attention if any suspicious symptoms arise. This facility had received a permit from the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation on December 22, 2025, and began trial operations in early 2026. Its primary business involved collecting and recycling waste batteries and lithium battery residues to extract metals. However, it was found that the factory was operating without an environmental impact assessment report and without the necessary permits for collecting, storing, dismantling, and recycling battery waste. This constitutes a violation of Articles 668, 243, 271, and 272 of the Law on Environment and Natural Resources. The Ministry of Environment plans to order the company to relocate, pay fines, and compensate for environmental damage.