Ministry of Environment Launches Campaign to Reduce Plastic Bag Use in Tbong Khmum Schools
The Ministry of Environment in Cambodia has initiated a campaign aimed at curbing the excessive use of plastic bags in schools across Tbong Khmum province’s O’Reang-ou district. This significant step towards environmental conservation was officially launched on September 1 under the guidance of the newly appointed Minister of Environment, Eang Sophalleth. Sophalleth has called upon students throughout the country to actively participate in this campaign, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.
The campaign was initially implemented in 44 schools within the O’Reang-ou district, benefitting over 18,000 students. To encourage and acknowledge exemplary efforts, Minister Sophalleth commended Hun Sen Tuol Sophy Secondary School for their commitment to completely eliminate the use of plastic bags. In a social media post on September 2, he shared a heartfelt video featuring students pledging their dedication to the cause and declaring their decision to cease using plastic bags altogether.
Environmental activist Hour Chhai Ngorn, founder of ‘Creal Cambodia,’ expressed immense support for the campaign, deeming it a brilliant initiative. Ngorn suggested that in order to reinforce the campaign’s message, relevant organizations should provide additional information and create explanatory videos to enable students to comprehend the true impact of plastic waste. By educating the students about the negative consequences of plastic usage, their commitment to the cause will be further strengthened.
Hong Vannak, an economist at the Royal Academy of Cambodia’s Institute of International Relations, underlined the detrimental effects of plastic waste on public health and water resources. He stressed the urgent need for collective action by both Cambodia and the international community to tackle this pressing issue. Improper waste management not only jeopardizes the well-being of individuals and the environment but also endangers biodiversity, the economy, and the nation as a whole.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Cambodia produces nearly 4 million tonnes of waste each year, equivalent to over 30,000 tonnes of waste generated daily throughout the country. In Phnom Penh alone, more than 3,500 tonnes of waste are produced daily, with nearly 20% of it being plastic waste.
In efforts to reduce plastic usage, the ministry has offered valuable advice to the public. They recommend switching from disposable straws to more sustainable alternatives made from paper, metal, or wood. Additionally, they encourage the use of reusable water bottles, toiletry bottles, cups, glasses, and plates. The ministry also suggests the adoption of biodegradable packaging for takeaway food.
Furthermore, the ministry proposes potential economic strategies, such as implementing higher charges for plastic packaging and providing discounts to individuals who bring their own reusable cups or containers.
The Ministry of Environment’s campaign to reduce plastic bag usage in schools is a significant stride towards promoting a cleaner and greener environment. With the enthusiastic participation of students and support from various organizations, Cambodia aims to combat the challenge of plastic waste and safeguard the well-being of future generations.
