Cambodia is set to join the global community in commemorating World Environment Day, under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” as part of a worldwide effort to combat one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the modern era.
King Norodom Sihamoni is scheduled to preside over the event on June 5, at the Win-Win Memorial on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, said Ministry of Environment spokesman Khvay Atitya.
World Environment Day, established by the United Nations in 1972 following the landmark UN Conference on the Human Environment, has evolved into the largest global platform for environmental outreach.
First celebrated in 1973, the global event engages over 150 countries annually and is coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Each year, UNEP selects a theme and rotating host country to highlight urgent environmental issues and promote innovative and actionable solutions.
The 2025 observance places a spotlight on plastic pollution—a growing global crisis. Plastic production has surged in recent decades due to its low cost, durability, and versatility. However, these same qualities have contributed to its widespread presence as a persistent pollutant in natural ecosystems.
Over 400 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated worldwide every year, with an estimated 75 to 199 million tonnes entering the oceans. This influx has severely disrupted marine ecosystems and posed grave risks to sea life and seabirds.
Plastic degrades into microplastics and nanoplastics, which have been detected in air, water, and food, raising significant public health concerns. The economic impact is also considerable, affecting tourism, fisheries, and healthcare systems across the globe.
Southeast Asia has been identified as a significant contributor to marine plastic pollution. Rapid economic growth, urbanisation, increased reliance on single-use plastics, and underdeveloped waste management infrastructure have all played a role in exacerbating the issue. Major regional rivers, such as the Mekong, serve as key conduits for plastic waste flowing into the ocean.
Coastal areas and islands in the region are increasingly facing the burden of plastic accumulation, which not only mars natural beauty but also threatens the sustainability of tourism-dependent economies.
The 2025 campaign calls for a collective commitment to reducing plastic consumption, improving waste management systems, and adopting sustainable alternatives to protect both human and environmental health.
Speaking at an interview, Atitya said the theme of this year’s Environment Day is consistent with the Ministry’s ongoing campaign, “Today, I Do Not Use Plastic Bags”, which has the participation of 11 million people, especially students.
He added that another campaign, “Cambodia Clean! Khmer Can Do”, draws 20,000 people each month to join clean-up activities at schools, villages, and roads.
“The Cambodian government is committed to fighting plastic waste pollution through a number of environmental initiatives,” he said. “It is also implementing measures to prevent water and air pollution.”
Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth said the government designated June 5 as “National Environment Day” through a sub-decree issued in 1996, aligning it with World Environment Day.
The annual event aims to raise public awareness of the sustainable management and responsible use of natural resources.
