The skyscrapers of Phnom Penh can be seen in the distance, towering above lush green fields, in May last year. Hong Menea
The Ministry of Environment calls on capital and provincial governors to implement government directives for reducing air pollution, noting a decline in air quality during the dry season from December to April.
It noted that monitoring results in the past years revealed a significant increase in inert particles (PM10 and PM2.5), surpassing standard levels, posing risks to both human health and the environment.
The ministry said the main sources and activities that increase the concentration of inert particles include emissions from industrial vehicles, forest fires, burning grass, agricultural waste, burning of solid waste in open spaces, fires at landfills and burning of plastic waste, as well as dust from construction sites.
The environment ministry urged the governors to educate people against burning forests, grasslands, plastic, agricultural waste and other refuse in open spaces.
“We must curb forest fires, burning grass and rice stalks, dispose of agricultural waste responsibly, avoid dumping and burning plastic waste, manage landfills efficiently and implement measures to control dust at construction sites and during transportation of construction materials,” the ministry said.
The ministry also suggests regular cleaning of streets and public places.
Recent monitoring reveals no significant decline in Cambodia’s air quality over the past week. PM2.5 concentration is 18.03-21.43 µg/m³, below the ministry’s 50 µg/m³ 24-hour average standard.
“Avoid burning plastic, as research indicates toxic fumes can cause respiratory issues, including cancer, posing threats to human, animal and plant health through the release of harmful environmental pollutants,” it advised.
Men Kong, spokesperson for the Stung Treng Provincial Administration, said on January 10 that the ministry’s request and guidance represent a commendable approach for provincial administrations to monitor climate change and air quality in the evolving climate context within Cambodia.
“We consistently share information with the public through the provincial Department of Environment and the National Committee for Disaster Management. Regular air quality monitoring occurs using specialised equipment strategically placed in key locations,” he said.
Kong said the provincial administration and the environment department intend to share guidelines from national institutions with the public. The administration is committed to the widespread promotion of public health information among civil servants, communities and families.
Neang Vannak, spokesperson for the Mondulkiri Provincial Administration, said the provincial leadership’s plan and vision give due consideration to climate change in Cambodia. The administration has been actively educating and disseminating information to the people to prevent fires.
“The province has urged provincial police and district inspectors to be prepared with fire extinguishers. We’re advising people to prevent wildfires, considering the abundant forests in our province,” he said.
He added that the administration directed the provincial Department of Public Works and Transport to clear vegetation along key roads, mitigating fire hazards and ensuring safe travel for the public.
