Czech Republic Commits to Combat Plastic Pollution

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): While meeting with Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Cambodia Martin Vavra stressed the global urgency of addressing the use of plastic bags and the need to reduce its usage.

Ambassador Vavra highlighted the pervasive threat that plastic waste poses to the well-being of both humans and animals, as well as its adverse impact on the preservation of natural resources and water sources.

This declaration took place during a courtesy meeting with Sophalleth at the Ministry office on Monday.

Ambassador Vavra also conveyed his warm regards to Sophalleth and informed him of their mutual vision for fostering cooperative initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and advancing water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in the Kingdom.

For his part, Sophalleth pledged full support for the initiative, aligning it with the strategic framework of the Cambodian government, according to the Ministry.

The Ministry’s comprehensive strategy places a significant emphasis on eliminating the use of plastic bags, with a particular emphasis on involving approximately 1.5 million students.

Sophalleth emphasised the need not only for adequate waste disposal facilities but also for a concerted effort to minimise waste generation.

The environmental mission’s second priority centres on restoration and reforestation initiatives.

This will encompass the annual distribution of one million saplings to the public while strongly opposing any illegal activities that threaten Cambodia’s forests, in full alignment with established legal guidelines.

The third priority in this sustainable endeavour involves the establishment of strategic alliances with global stakeholders. These alliances aim to champion cleanliness, green initiatives, and sustainability in response to the pressing challenges posed by regional and global climate concerns.

The Czech Republic’s commitment to the Kingdom in addressing these critical environmental concerns is indeed a significant step toward a cleaner, greener, and healthier future for all.

Additionally, in a separate meeting with Kristian Teleki, Executive Director of the Fauna & Flora – Cambodia Programme at the Ministry office on Monday, Sophalleth called for cooperation from development partners to enhance community well-being.

Sophalleth has warmly welcomed and expressed gratitude to collaborating organisations committed to improving the well-being of local communities for the cause of sustainable development.

For his part, Teleki expressed his appreciation for the sustained partnership with the Ministry, highlighting the joint commitment to reducing marine plastic and enhancing the blue carbon generated from sea glasses and mangroves, the management of protected areas and conducting species surveys.

The collaborative projects are focused on improving the well-being of local communities, implementing the REDD+ project, and carrying out transboundary biodiversity conservation efforts within the vast domain of Virachey National Park.

In line with the government’s Pentagonal Strategy’s first phase, Sophalleth has established three core objectives, each dedicated to empowering and enhancing the welfare of the Cambodian people.

Furthermore, Sophalleth underscores the vital role of law enforcement in the responsible management of natural resources and the prevention of deforestation, firmly rejecting any unlawful practices.

Notably, out of the three key priorities, the first one begins with launching a widespread campaign to reduce plastic bag usage, actively involving the approximately 1.5 million students.

The second priority focuses on a reforestation initiative, distributing one million saplings to the public annually, and bolstering efforts to combat forest-related crimes in accordance with established legal principles.

The third priority aims to forge strategic alliances with international partners to promote a clean, green, and sustainable approach, in response to the urgent challenges posed by regional and global climate change.

Courtesy: www.khmertimeskh.com