PHNOM PENH – Cambodian Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth recently signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with Japan’s Environment Minister Ishihara Hirotaka. This agreement, finalized on February 16 in Tokyo, targets key environmental issues.
The MoC has four main priorities:
Climate Mitigation and Adaptation: Cambodia aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2035. Efforts will focus on the energy, industry, agriculture, forestry, and waste management sectors.
Circular Economy: The plan addresses plastic waste management and seeks to promote resource efficiency for a sustainable future.
Pollution Prevention: Cambodia plans to modernize its monitoring systems to ensure cleaner air, land, and water, crucial for public health.
Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting natural ecosystems is essential for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
During his visit to Japan, Sophalleth also signed another MoC with the Japan Federation of Shiho-Shoshi Lawyers’ Associations. This agreement aims to enhance environmental law enforcement and governance in Cambodia.
Sophalleth outlined three key goals of the new agreements: improving the enforcement of environmental laws, increasing transparency in permitting processes, and building stronger institutions for managing natural resources. He emphasized that transparent laws are critical for sustainable development and long-term success.
Ozawa Yoshinori, the federation’s president, echoed this sentiment, promising to support environmental forecasting efforts in Cambodia.
Recent studies highlight the urgency of climate action globally. A report from the UN shows that if we don’t act now, the effects of climate change could become irreversible by 2030. By aligning with international partners like Japan, Cambodia is taking a proactive step toward addressing these pressing challenges.
This collaborative approach is particularly relevant today as countries strive to meet the goals set by the Paris Agreement. With 196 countries committing to limit global warming, Cambodia’s bold targets are a critical contribution to global efforts.
For more information on environmental policies and agreements, you can refer to the United Nations Climate Change website.
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