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| Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia |
The initiative, led by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is focused on protecting the nation’s iconic waterways and encouraging tourism operators, businesses, and local communities to adopt environmentally responsible practices.
As Cambodia continues to attract travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences and natural beauty, the campaign represents a significant step toward ensuring the country’s rivers remain vibrant for generations to come.
Cambodia Launches Nationwide River Clean-Up Campaign
The new River Clean-up Campaign carries the theme “Promoting Sustainable River Tourism and Plastic Waste Reduction across Cambodia’s Waterways.” It aims to reduce plastic pollution in river tourism areas while encouraging sustainable tourism practices across the nation.
Cambodia’s rivers are deeply connected to the country’s tourism identity, cultural heritage, and local livelihoods. The Mekong, Bassac, and Tonle Sap rivers are among the country’s most visited waterways, drawing tourists with river cruises, floating communities, traditional fishing villages, and vibrant waterfront dining.
However, increasing tourism activity has also created environmental challenges, particularly the growing use of single-use plastics in hospitality, food and beverage services, recreation, and river transport operations.
More than 60 tourist boats currently operate in Phnom Penh alone, highlighting the urgent need for stronger waste management systems and environmentally friendly tourism practices.
The Growing Challenge of Plastic Pollution
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| photo: kiripost |
Tourism Minister Huot Hak described tourism as “green gold” for Cambodia, emphasising its importance as a major contributor to economic growth, employment, and national development. At the same time, he acknowledged that plastic pollution threatens the sustainability of Cambodia’s tourism future.
Littering habits, limited waste facilities on tourism boats, and inadequate disposal systems have contributed to pollution across many waterways. Without intervention, these issues could damage the natural beauty that attracts both international and domestic visitors.
The 4Rs Approach to Sustainable Tourism
At the centre of Cambodia’s new strategy is the “4Rs” approach:
- Refuse
- Reduce
- Reuse
- Recycle
The campaign encourages tourism businesses and travellers alike to refuse unnecessary single-use plastics, reduce waste generation, reuse materials whenever possible, and recycle responsibly.
Hotels, restaurants, tour operators, cruise companies, and riverside attractions are being encouraged to adopt sustainable practices that minimise environmental impact while improving the visitor experience.
The campaign slogan, “Rivers for Tourism, Tourism for People, People for Plastic-free Rivers,” reinforces the close connection between environmental protection and sustainable economic opportunity.
UNDP and Private Sector Partnerships Driving Change
The campaign also demonstrates the growing importance of partnerships between governments, international organisations, and private businesses in advancing sustainable tourism goals.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Shakeel Ahmad highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing plastic pollution. With support from The Coca-Cola Foundation, the initiative aims to transform sustainable principles into practical action across Cambodia’s tourism sector.
Private sector involvement is expected to play a major role in expanding plastic reduction efforts and supporting long-term environmental improvements. Tourism businesses are increasingly recognising that eco-conscious travel is not only beneficial for the planet but also highly attractive to modern travellers seeking responsible tourism experiences.
Why Cambodia’s Rivers Matter to Tourism
Cambodia’s waterways are far more than scenic attractions. They are economic lifelines for local communities and key components of the nation’s tourism economy.
River cruises along the Mekong River offer visitors unforgettable journeys through rural Cambodia, while Tonle Sap Lake remains one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating ecological and cultural destinations. Waterfront tourism in Phnom Penh has also become increasingly popular, with sunset cruises, floating restaurants, and riverside entertainment contributing to the capital’s growing appeal.
Protecting these waterways is essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for preserving the authenticity and beauty that make Cambodia unique.
A Greener Future for Cambodian Tourism
Cambodia’s River Clean-up Campaign signals an important shift toward more sustainable tourism development across the country. By reducing plastic pollution and encouraging environmentally responsible tourism practices, Cambodia is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable river tourism within Southeast Asia.
For travellers, the initiative promises cleaner waterways, healthier ecosystems, and more meaningful tourism experiences. For local communities, it offers the opportunity to protect valuable natural resources while continuing to benefit from tourism-driven economic growth.
As global travellers increasingly prioritise sustainability when choosing destinations, Cambodia’s commitment to cleaner rivers and responsible tourism may become one of its strongest attractions in the years ahead.
For more information visit:
Ministry of Tourism Cambodia
United Nations Development Programme Cambodia
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