Cambodia launches ASEAN’s first carbon‑neutral island in Koh Kong

Cambodia has taken a bold step in the fight against climate change, unveiling the region’s first carbon‑neutral community on Koh Sralao, a small island in Koh Kong province.

The announcement, made by Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth on Thursday, marks a milestone in the country’s ambition to achieve nationwide carbon neutrality by 2050. Koh Sralao, home to around 300 households, will serve as a showcase for sustainable living and eco‑tourism in Southeast Asia.

The project centres on restoring mangrove and tropical forests, building climate‑resilient infrastructure and promoting renewable energy. Solar power will be rolled out for homes and transport, while waste management schemes aim to end uncontrolled burning. Plans also include eco‑friendly tourism facilities and smart agriculture to balance livelihoods with conservation.

The launch coincided with the Mangrove Peace Festival, organised with local authorities and the NGO Mother Nature. More than 3,000 mangrove trees were planted during the event, highlighting the community’s role in protecting fragile coastal ecosystems.

Residents received solar lighting kits, rubbish bins and a collection vehicle, gifts from Prime Minister Hun Manet and his wife Pech Chanmony.

Officials stressed that Koh Sralao’s transformation reflects Cambodia’s wider roadmap — the first in ASEAN to set clear emission reduction targets and monitoring timelines. The strategy rests on cutting greenhouse gases across all sectors, defining measurable goals, expanding implementation and ensuring regular oversight.

By involving local people directly, the government hopes to embed conservation into daily life and create a model that can be replicated elsewhere. Koh Kong’s pioneering project positions Cambodia as a regional leader in sustainable development, offering a glimpse of how small communities can drive big changes.

-2026-03-29