Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028

Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 Address: Morodok Techo Building, Lot 503, Khan Chamkamorn, Phnom Penh PREFACE Beneath the umbrella of peace, national unity, and territorial integrity, cultivated through strong determination, patriotism, sincere dedication, and various sacrifices, and guided by the wise leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, the Royal Government of Cambodia has effectively carried out the Triangle Strategy and Rectangular Strategies in four phases. This dedicated effort has yielded significant accomplishments across political, social, and economic sectors, contributing to Cambodia's proud development. Overall, the Triangle Strategy and Rectangular Strategies have played an excellent role in Cambodia's socio-economic development policy agenda, which provides a common strategic framework for building a strong and independent state institution. At the same time, the system of governance has been continuously modernized to be more comprehensive, more efficient and for the rapid social and economic development that is recognized both regionally and globally. This is particularly noteworthy for Cambodia's rapid transformation towards a low-middle-income status, marked by robust economic growth, rapid poverty reduction, and successful integration on both regional and global fronts. In the past 30 years since the establishment of the Institurion for the Environment in 1993, the environmental sector has received the full support from the Royal Government of Cambodia, the close cooperation of relevant ministries and institutions, the active participation of development partners, and Cambodians regarding the management of the environment and natural resources. In addition, the role of leaders and civil servants at all levels of the Ministry of Environment in implementing policies, strategies, legal documents, reforms, and modernization has resulted in the institution achieving satisfactory results. Building upon the accomplishments of the last 25 years within the context of the Triangle Strategy and the Rectangular Strategies, the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly, led by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, introduce Phase 1 of the "Pentagonal Strategy." This new phase focuses on economic growth, job creation, equity, efficiency, and sustainability to fulfill the aspirations of the people and work towards realizing Cambodia's Vision for 2050. The Pentagonal Strategy is a 25-year strategy that has been considered and set out in five stages to guide the implementation of the political program of the Royal Government of each legislature of the National Assembly. In line with the objectives of "Pentagonal Strategy" Phase 1 and in accordance with existing national policies, strategies, and relevant international authorization frameworks, the Ministry of Environment has crafted the "Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028." This strategy serves as a roadmap, outlining priority actions to ensure environmental sustainability, integrity, climate change resilience, and the promotion of a green economy. The ultimate goal is to realize the Pentagonal strategy's aspiration of transforming into a carbon-neutral country with 60 percent of forest cover by 2050. The circular strategy on environment 2023-2028 is designed to turn the potential of the environmental sector into real benefits for the Cambodian nation and its people of all generations. The circular strategy is designed as a circle, with a CORE strategy in the center and three strategies on the outside. The central strategy revolves around three key angles: enhancing policy, establishing digital administration, and broadening extension. These three elements serve as the driving force propelling the other three strategies forward with vigor. The first of the three outside strategies include: being CLEAN, which has three angles: controlling pollution, modernizing pollution measurement system, and improving environmental impact assessment. The second strategy: going GREEN has three angles: intensifying tree planting movement, ensuring sustainable management of protected areas, and enhancing local communities’ livelihood. Lastly, the third strategy: being SUSTAINABLE has another three angles: applying compliance, expanding cooperation and strengthening coordination. On behalf of the Ministry of Environment, I would like to exprees my high respects to Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia for guiding the formulation and allowing the Cirlular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 to be launched through Letter No 1170 dated 6 th November 2023 of the Councile of Ministers. I have full confidence that the departmets under the Ministry of Environment will join forces and collaborate closely with relevant ministries, institutions, local authorities, development partners, and the private sector. Together, we will effectively implement the Circular Strategy on Environment (2023-2028) by realizing our strategy into action plans. This collective effort is aimed at benefiting all generations of Cambodians and elevating Cambodia's reputation on the global arena. Phnom Penh, 15 th November 2023 MINISTER Dr. EANG Sophalleth TABLE OF CONTENT Page 1. Introduction 1 2. Vision 2 3. Mission 2 4. Strategic Goal 3 4.1. Core Strategy 3 Angle 1: Enhancing Policy 3 Angle 2: Establishing Digital Administration 6 Angle 3: Broadening Extension 8 4.2 Strategy 1 (Clean) 11 Angle 1: Controlling Pollution 11 Angle 2: Modernizing Pollution Measurement System 15 Angle 3: Improving Environmental Impact Assessment 17 4.3 Strategy 2 (Green) 19 Angle 1: Intensifing Tree Planting Movement. 19 Angle 2: Improving Protected Areas Management 20 Angle 3: Enhancing Local Communities’ Livelihood 22 4.4 Strategy 3 (Sustainable) 25 Angle 1: Applying Compliance 25 Angle 2: Expanding Cooperation 28 Angle 3: Strengthening Coordination 31 5. Implementation Mechanism 32 5.1. Inter-Ministerial Mechanism 33 5.2. Ministry Mechanism 34 5.3. Sub-National Mechanism 35 6. Conclusion 36 1 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 1. Introduction The environment is one of the four foundational elements (environment, economy, society, and culture) of sustainable development. Over the past two decades, well before the Covid 19 pandamic, Cambodia has not only achieved high an average economic growth of around 7% but also has maintained economic stability, through transformation and diversification of the national economy. In addition to a high economic growth, the Ministry of Environment has also been able to fulfil its roles and responsibilities in four key areas: (1) building a modern administration; (2) conserving biodiversity and managing natural resources; (3) developing local communities; and (4) promoting sustainable livelihood. The Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 was developed in accordance with the Pentagon Strategy (Phase 1) 2023-2028 of the Royal Government of Cambodia, the 7 th Legislature of the National Assembly, which outline the mission and commitment of the RGC in the field of environment. To meet the aspirations of the economy towards sustainable development goals. As the management of the environment and natural resources continues to improve, especially in the areas of land, water, minerals, and forestry, efforts to implement priority programmes are necessary in the context of change in climate. It is also important to address the emerging challenges of climate change. In fact, in the sixth term of the RGC, the Government has made deep reforms in the field of environment and natural resources. These reforms include revising the leadership and management structure of the Ministry of Environment, establishing the National Council for Sustainable Development and setting key legal instruments. Notably, the Code on Environment and Natural Resources and the Long-term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality aim at ensuring environmental quality, ecological balance, natural resource management, social welfare, and sustainable living for the benefit of the people. 2 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 To achieve sustainability both in the field of environment and development, the Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 is designed to guide and prioritize environmental protection, natural resources conservation and sustainable development through three angles: "clean", "green" and "sustainable" towards a carbon neutral economy by 20250. This strategy will be used as a roadmap for targeted implementation of development activities to meet the needs of the public and transform the potential of the environmental sector into the benefits of all generations of Cambodians, as well as to participate in responding to global climate change. 2. Vision Ensure environmental sustainability and environmental perfection responding to climate change and promoting green development. 3. Mission − Promote green investment through infrastructure construction, clean energy systems, smart production, green transportation, solid waste management, plastics and hazardous waste, wastewater treatment, air quality management, protected area management, green space expansion and supporting local community economy; − Strengthen the legal framework and policies related to the environment, land, air, biodiversity, natural disasters, climate change and green diplomacy; and − Continue to develop institutions, build officials’ capacity and knowledge on science, technology, and innovation as well as research on the environment, green development, water security, biodiversity, and climate change. 4. Strategic Goal Attain Clean, Green and Sustainable goals in transforming the potential of the environmental sector into the benefits of all generations of Cambodians and to enhance Cambodia's prestige on the international arena. 3 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 The Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 is designed as a Circle with the core strategy focusing on three angles: enhancing policy, establishing a digital administration and broadening extension, which are the driving forces to move the three other strategies towards achieving "carbon neutrality" by 2050. The first of the other three other strategies begins with (Clean) including three angles: controlling pollution, modernizing pollution measurement system and improving environmental impact assessment. The second strategy (Green) also has three angles: intensifying tree planting movement, improving protected areas management, and enhancing local communities’ livelihood. The third strategy (Sustainable) additionally has three angles: applying compliance, expanding cooperation and strengthening coordination. 4.1. Core Strategy Angle 1: Enhancing Policy Priority 1: Enhancing the preparation, implementation, and assessment of the implementation of policies, strategies and action plans − Develop the circular strategy on environment 2023-2028 within the first 100 days of the Royal Government of Cambodia of 7th mandate of the national assembly; − Strengthen the functional capacity of the National Council for Sustainable Development, Technical Working Group on Climate Change, Technical Working Group on Biodiversity, National Taskforce and Technical Working Groups on REDD + and other working groups in line with the priorities of the Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1; − Organize and strengthen the capacity of the National Council for Sustainable Development to be accredited entity of the Green Climate Fund, the Adaptation Fund and other environmental funds; 4 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Develop a strategy to mobilize green financing to support the development of programs and projects related to the environment, climate change, biodiversity and sustainable development; − Explore the best practices from other countries as a model in the development of policies, strategies, action plans, guidelines and certificates related to the environment and sustainable development; − Conduct innovative research on science and technology in the field of environment and sustainable development as an environmental policy option; − Develop strategies for the phase 2 of plastic bag reduction campaigns and other environmental-related strategies; − Develop and coordinate the implementation of policies, strategies and action plans in collaboration with line ministries and institutions, local authorities, development partners and key stakeholders, including (1) Circular Strategy on Environment; (2) Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality; (3) Green Diplomatic Strategy; (4) Sustainable Urban Development Strategic Plan; (5) National Policy on Green Development; and (6) Nationally Determined Contribution and others; − Initiate and coordinate the implementation of guidelines and technical reports on environment in collaboration with line ministries and institutions, local authorities, development partners and key stakeholders; − Monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies, strategies, action plans and guidelines, and relevant technical reports; − Disseminate and share policies, strategies, action plans, guidelines, decisions and technical reports on environment; − Strengthen the capacity of officials of the Ministry of Environment, line ministries and institutions and local 5 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 authorities through curriculums, fora, workshops, training, and events related to climate change, biodiversity, green economy and green technology in country and abroad. Priority 2: Participating in the preparation, implementation and evaluation of the implementation of relevant laws and regulations − Update and implement the Royal Decree on the organization and function of the National Council for Sustainable Development and its related law and regulations; − Update the inter-ministerial working groups, various working groups within the Ministry of Environment and other working groups in line with the priorities of the Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1; − Establish the Sustainable Development Committee at the Provincial level and coordinate the work of the National Council for Sustainable Development; − Explore the nature of international obligations, national sustainable development goals, guidelines and relevant international regulatory framework to expand the resource mobility including technical and financial resources for the national interest; − Organize fora, meetings, consultations and relevant events with support from legal advisors to prepare draft law and regulations on environment; and − Coordinate the mechanism of the National Council for Sustainable Development and other working groups within the framework of organizing, implementing, and evaluating the implementation of laws and regulations. Priority 3: Strengthening the coordination mechanisms with line ministries and institutions, development partners and private sector − Organize meetings of the National Council for Sustainable Development to review the progress and provide guidance 6 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 for performance improvement related to sustainable development; − Organize meetings, consultations and events related to the Technical Working Group on Climate Change, the Technical Working Group on Biodiversity, REDD+ Technical Working Group, Technical Working Group on Energy Sustainability, Sustainable City, Green Building, Sustainable Use and Production and other relevant working groups; − Organize fora, seminars, training, and events to expand the capacity of officials to build relationships and expand cooperation between the working groups with line ministries and institutions, and local authorities; and − Coordinate, monitor and recommend the work progress to the National Council for Sustainable Development and the Provincial Sustainable Development Committees. Angle 2: Establishing Digital Administration Priority 1: Developing Digital Infrastructure and Equip Modern Equipment, Devices and Materials − Install modern information technology (IT) system for effective management and distribution of offcial documents within the ministry for the duration of first 100 day’s of the new Government of the Seventh Legislature of National Assembly; − Develop a new system of generation, archiving and management of database to enhance effectiveness in office management; − Provide modern facilities such as computers, table and chairs, cabinets, etc. for ministry eployees in response to the technical demands, expanded scope of works, and digital administration management; 7 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Provide better transportation facilities such as vehicles and motorcycles employees to effectively fulfil administrative activities; and − Manage and maintain the IT systems, office facilities and equipment, transportation facilities, and physical insfrastructure of the ministry; Priority 2: Building officials’ capacities of both national and sub national levels − Assess and evaluate the need for capacity building both national and sub-national levels; − Organize fora, workshops, training courses and relevant events in order to strengthen the capacity of employees at the national and sub-national levels in areas of administrative management, natural resources management, and environmental protection; − Allow officials to participate various in country national and overseas events such as study tour, forum, workshop, meeting, training course and other events; and − Award officials of relevant institutions under the ministry for good performance through presenting medals, increasing salaries and promoting positions. Priority 3: Constructing additional office-building for officals to accommodate their workspaces and put ‘Ekpheap Cheat Techo Building’ in function − Compete the construction of Ekpheap Cheat Techo Building based on the construction plan in order to increase the working space; − Construct new office space at the ministry compound to increase the working space for officials to ensure comfortable working environment; and − Manage and maintain office facilities and buildings of the ministry. 8 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 Angle 3: Broadening Extension Priority 1: Extending environmental knowledge and information through all forms of media − Organize a campaign to reduce the use of plastic under the theme "Today I do not use plastic bags" in schools, factories, enterprises and the private sector during the first 100 days of the Royal Government of the 7th legislature of the National Assembly; − Mobilize public organizations and philanthropists to participate in various campaigns and movements related to the environment and sustainable development; − Produce promotional materials including newspapers, magazines, posters, exhibition materials and other promotional materials; − Disseminate activities, progress and achievements through social media, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, Telegram and through the airwaves, radio, television, webinar, international and nation events, and press conferences; − Disseminate information to the public on new experience, knowledge, and innovative technologies from other countries in the region and the knowldge gained through participation in international conferences and in global forums and events; − Collaborate and engage with public and social media such as newspapers, magazines, television, and online news forums to expand the scope of environmental information dissemination to the public; − Mobilize experts to contribute articles, opinion pieces and interviews to educate the public about environmental issues and remedial measures; 9 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Strengthen the capacity of civil servants at both national and sub-national levels to respond in a timely manner against inaccurate information; − Organize programs to raise awareness and participation in environmental protection through environmental campaigns, including the organization of environmental days, study tours, camps and environmental forums; − Share information and knowledge to the public about technology, science and innovation, and ancestral knowledge that support environmental protection, preserve natural resources, conserve biodiversity, and improve the well-being and livelihoods of local communities in responding to climate change and sustainable development; and − Train additional professional officers in producing high quality promotional or communication materials (such as video documentary) on environmental topics with quality and attractiveness. Priority 2 : Ungrading the Environmental Database Management Center − Assess, research, and collect data on forest cover, carbon storage, biodiversity, ecosystems, flood forecasting, drought, forest fire in protected areas, etc.; − Strengthen and regularly update the measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification system on forest cover, forest land use, land use change, and carbon storage under appropriate technical conditions (Measurement, Monitoring, Reporting and Verification); − Prepare legal documents, technical guidelines, data quality standards for the management of geographic information systems relation to environment and protected area management; 1 0 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Equipped with the necessary infrastructure for the Geographic Information Management Center (GIS), including hardware such as servers, workstations, storage devices, networks and software such as Web platform, GIS and Remote Sensing applications and tools; − Conduct research and development on new systems of information technology in collaboration with development partners and national and international educational institutions to increase the capacity on the use of tools and technologies related to new skills and improved estimation; − Organize training courses on related subjects for officers in charge, officials of relevant units and sub-national officials; − Prepare and publish State of the Environment Report on a regular basis. Priority 3: Encouraging environmentally friendly schools, environmentally friendly monasteries, legal entities, and individuals who actively participate in environmentally friendly activities. − Organize environmentally friendly campaigns such as reduction of plastic use campaigns, supply of drinking water equipment, supply of disposable waste, compost and recycle bins, etc. − Update procedures, guidelines, criteria, and indicators for evaluating environmentally friendly performance qualifications according to specific sectors and activities; − Publish and disseminate guidelines for environmentally friendly schools and environmentally friendly monasteries; − Develop procedures, guidelines, criteria, and indicators for evaluating the quality of environmentally friendly execution according to each specific field-site and specific activity; 1 1 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Disseminate the "Safe Village and Commune-Sangkat" competition movement on the 6 th criterion in all forms; − Provide incentives and rewards to schools, monasteries, villages, communes, legal entities and individuals who are actively participated in environmental friendly activities; − Organize competitions for schools and monasteries for environmentally friendly legal entities and individuals who participate in environmentally friendly activities; − Organize the "Safe Village, Commune-Sangkat" competition movement, within the framework of the 6 th criterion; − Organize a competition program to find the achievements and innovations of the social attitude change communication campaign; − Strengthen the officials’ capacity of Provincial Department of Environment to disseminate, educate and evaluate environmental friendly activities; − Examine, study, and consult in the preparation and establishment of funds to support the implementation of environmental friendliness and initiatives focusing on research and development of green technologies, efforts to conserve and improve environmental conditions. 4.2. Strategy 1 (Clean) Angle 1: Controlling Pollution Priority 1: Improving the implementation and monitoring of solid waste, liquid, and hazardous waste management systems − Develop sub-decree on the management of single-use plastic products and plastic waste, sub-decree on the management of hazardous wastes, declaration on lead in paints, declaration on the types of electrical and electronic equipment, declaration on the report on the release and transfer of pollutants into the environment, and other relevant legal instruments; 1 2 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Update and develop guidelines and legal instruments related to solid and liquid wastes management, such electrical and electronic wastes management, pharmaceutical waste management, battery waste disposal and management, household hazardous waste management, etc.; − Design and implement a plastic waste clean-up campaign after the first phase of the reduction of plastic use campaign accomplished; − Foster the implementation of the 4R Principle "Refuse, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle" to promote solid waste management, particularly plastic waste, as well as supporting a circular economy; − Foster and support on the strengthening and the expansion of municipal solid waste management services and the establishment of the new management system based on the prevailing situations; − Foster solid waste segregation and the final disposal through developing landfills; − Promote the treatment of wastewater and sewage in production sites, businesses, services and in the capital city, town, district through the construction and equipment installation of wastewater treatment systems; − Disseminate legal instruments related to the management of solid, liquid, plastic and hazardous wastes to the public, particularly to the owners of pollution sources; − Strengthen the implementation of legal instruments related to the management of solid, liquid, plastic and hazardous wastes; − Strengthen the capacity of officials of the Ministry and the Provincial Department of Environment on the management of solid, liquid, plastic and hazardous wastes; 1 3 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Encourage the processing of agricultural products and plants into packaging materials to alternate of using plastic; − Strengthen the capacity of officials of the Ministry of Environment, Municipal or Provincial Department of Environment on the management and disposal of solid, liquid, plastic and hazardous wastes; and − Coordinate, cooperate and mobilize support to encourage environmentally friendly schools, pagodas and other religious institutions, legal entities and individuals who have participated in the environmentally friendly activities. Priority 2: Modernizing environmental quality management (land, air, water, noise and vibration) in accordance with the legal documents and requirements − Study and determine environmental quality management strategies (land, air, water, noise and vibration) in accordance with the requirements to improve environmental quality; − Prepare a sub-decree on the control of air pollution and noise and vibration, a proclamation on the control of toxic substances from vehicles, technical guidelines on the control of air pollution from boilers and generators and other relevant legal documents; − Update the inter-ministerial technical working group to strengthen the implementation of national and international conventions, protocols and agreements related to environmental protection; − Establish mobile water quality testing stations to monitor, analyze and evaluate water quality for emergency response to water pollution cases in public water areas and increase public water quality monitoring sites, expand automated water quality monitoring stations and establish digital data management systems to report regularly on public water quality; 1 4 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Establish a mechanism to monitor and assess the level of heavy metal contamination in the soil at the disposal sites of solid and industrial wastes and at the sites of gold and metal mining to identify and manage the hotspots aimed at improving the quality of the environment and public health; − Develop technical guidelines and provide technical equipment to support the assessment and reduction of noise and vibration in industrial areas, construction sites, quarries, mining sites, etc.; and − Improve air quality protection, reduce noise and vibration noise through the establishment of air quality monitoring data management centers, increase air quality monitoring stations in all major cities across the country. Priority 3: Promoting the implementation of waste management policy linked to the implementation of decentralization and deconcentrating policy and Safe Village, Commune-Sangkat policy − Promote education, dissemination, and training to the Department of Environment and Sub-National Administration related to solid waste management strategies; − Cooperate to monitor and evaluate the implementation of urban solid waste management policy 2020-2030; − Investigate and collect data on the types and levels of hazards and effects of hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, medical wastes and radioactive wastes disposed into the environment; − Disseminate hazard levels and effects of hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, medical wastes and radioactive wastes; and 1 5 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Update the Pollution and Toxic Data Management System for monitoring and sharing information on waste and hazardous. Angle 2: Modernizing Pollution Measurement System Priority 1: Equiping with modern technology and facilities to analyze environmental quality, acidity, radiation, chemical, biological hazards, hematology and bacteriology − Design and implement operational procedures for the safe analysis and diagnosis of spacimen or samples in the laboratory; − Establish laboratory infrastructure with high-quality equipment and management systems that ensures international standards to ensure quality testing in a safe operating environment; − Equip technical equipment for the analysis of key parameters on environmental samples such as physical, chemical, biological, genetic, and radiological parameters; − Establish and strengthen of the management of laboratory waste in compliance with established safety and security protocols; − Inventory, maintain, repair and calibrate laboratory equipment on a regular basis for quality assurance so that high operating environment is maintained and accurate measurements are ensured; − Encourage professional officers in the Ministry of Environment to cooperate in researching and implementing projects through laboratory facilities and services; and − Welcoming students and researchers to participate in training and exchange their experiences to compile data and strengthen capacity in the field of environmental sciences. 1 6 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 Priority 2: Establishing Pollution Analytical Systems to ensure quality and safety analysis results − Prepare procedures for the management of samples and experimental reactors in a technical manner; − Prepare a laboratory quality manual and fully implement the laboratory quality assurance system; − Strengthen internal control of the laboratory both before, during and after the test; − Participate in the network of laboratory quality assessment from external institutions to improve the quality of the Ministry's laboratory; − Compile operational procedures, analysis methods and quality control for all tests to use as a basis for implementation; − Study and compile new methods and technologies in environmental sample analysis to enhance the quality of the laboratory; − Manage reactor materials , and ensure adequate supply in order to properly follow operating procedures; and − Strengthen the capacity of professional officers on a regular basis in line with the progress of science and technology in testing, analysis, and divide the roles, duties and responsibilities of laboratory staff in accordance with professionalism, ethics and willingness to complete the work. Priority 3: Strengthening service quality and staff capacity to meet customer needs − Investigate and set up a laboratory in compliance with the national and international standards using modernized management system; − Develop and deploy a database management system that includes sample analysis requests, publishing bulletins, 1 7 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 report analysis results, and a payment service that is fast, transparent, accountable, and efficient; − Collaborate with international pollution analysis institutions to evaluate the internationally recognized quality of national analysis; − Promote marketing by demonstrating the technical capacity of public services to customers and stakeholders; − Increase the type of public service (by expanding the type of test and additional parameters) to meet the needs of the public; and − Survey clients on lab services to identify gaps for regular improvement. Angle 3: Improving Environmental Impact Assessment Priority 1: Developing policies, strategies and relevant legal documents − Develop an Inter-ministerial Prakas with representation from the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Ministry of Economy and Finance on strategic environmental policy on the working conditions model for the metal exploration project. The Prakas will cover aspects on post-business site management guidelines and policies, strategy and other relevant legal measures; − Evaluate and upgrade the Department of Environmental Impact Assessment to become the General Department of Environmental Impact Assessment; and − Establish and manage a new system for the collection of environmental forecasting funds and environmental and social funds through banking and digital systems. Priority 2: Studying and evaluating public investment projects and private investment projects to prepare environmental impact assessment reports and environmental protection contracts 1 8 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Examine, study, analyze and advise on the first and full environmental and social impact assessment report and environmental contract; − Classify projects and working conditions to determine the level of assessment, such as initial environmental and social impact assessments, comprehensive environmental and social impact assessments, and environmental protection contracts; − Inspect the actual location for the project to be evaluated for initial environmental and social impact Assessment; − Collaborate with relevant ministries-institutions and development partners to facilitate the implementation of environmental and social impact assessment procedures; and − Organize training courses, disseminate legal standards and procedures on the preparation of reports on environmental and social impact assessments, and increase the efficiency of review and evaluation of relevant development projects. Priority 3: Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of various public and private investment projects to ensure compliance with environmental principles − Organize a working group to monitor and evaluate the implementation of various public and private investment projects; − Collaborate with relevant departments under the Ministry of Environment to regularly monitor the implementation of environmental management plans based on environmental impact assessment reports and environmental protection contracts; and − Promote the collection of environmental and social funds through banking system and digital system. . 1 9 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 4.3. Strategy 2 (Green) Angle 1: Intensifying Tree Planting Movement Priority 1: Distributing at least 1 million of saplings per year to the public − Establish tree nurseries at all Provincial Department of Environment centres to distribute seedlings and saplings among the public for free; − Develop technical guidelines on the establishment of nurseries, planting and management; − Distribute at least 1 million saplings per year to the public for free for tree planting; − Observe the 9th July as "Annual Tree Planting Day" through mass participation of the public; − Organize a tree planting day to distribute the saplings of wild and fruit trees to the public for free; and − Establish a digital data management system to track the growth of publicly planted trees. Priority 2: Expanding tree planting in degraded forest areas within the Protected Areas − Develop a reforestation management plan in the deforested areas within the Protected Areas to reach 60% forest cover by 2050; − Expand the establishment of nurseries in all Provincial Departments of Environment centres to implement reforestation in deforested zones of Protected Areas; − Organize tree plantation and forest restoration activities in Protected Areas on the National and World Environment Day, which takes place every year under the high presidency of the King of the Kingdom of Cambodia or the Royal Representative throughout the country, for example, pagodas, schools, factories, enterprises, towns, etc.; and 2 0 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Maintain and monitor reforestation in degraded forest areas within the Protected Areas to ensure optimal growth rate. Priority 3: Promoting tree planting in Communities of Protected Areas − Develop tree planting plans in Community Protected Areas to expand forest cover towards the goal of carbon neutral communities; − Expand the establishment of nurseries in the Community Protected Areas for planting trees in the areas managed by local communities; − Organize tree planting activities in Community Protected Areas and plant fruit trees in community villages; − Maintain and monitor tree planting in Community Protected Areas to ensure successful establishment of plantations; and − Attract investment in the cultivation, production, and processing of forest and non-timber forest products, to increase green cover as well as increase income of the local communities. Angle 2: Improving Protected Areas Management Priority 1: Strengthening the management of Protected Areas, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, landscape protection areas, multi-use areas, Ramsar sites, natural heritage sites and marine national parks − Prepare and revise legal documents for supporting and managing Protected Areas in accordance with the Code of Environment and Natural Resources; − Continue boundary demarcation, pole installation, state land registration, zoning and developing management plan for all Protected Areas; 2 1 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Classify forests within Protected Areas and conduct watershed studies to update information on forest cover, inventory wetlands, mangroves, and other ecosystems; − Strengthen law enforcement for the conservation of forests, wildlife and aquatic animals in Protected Areas in accordance with the four principles: (1) implementing full law enforcement, (2) strengthening cooperation with local authorities, (3) expanding close cooperation with the Committee for the Prevention of Natural Resource Crimes and (4) promoting plantation and/or reforestation; − Expand education on the potential of natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystem services in Protected Areas to the public through the organization of forums and exhibitions, such as conservation day, bird exhibition, Protected Area exhibition, Protected Area Day, Wetlands Day, environment day, etc.; and − Modernize and digitalize Protected Area management units and build infrastructures to support Protected Area management and law enforcement. Priority 2: Enhancing biodiversity conservation − Study and research on the species of flora and fauna that are present in the Protected Areas to develop plan and take actions for management and conservation; − Develop classifications and lists of vulnerable and endangered biodiversity to create protection and conservation plans, as well as the registration of intellectual property for biodiversity between countries and new discoveries; − Protect and restore habitats for wildlife in Protected Areas for harmonization between wildlife and humans, aiming to strengthen biodiversity conservation, and promote ecotourism; 2 2 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Preserve and restore damaged ecosystems to enhance ecosystem services, maintain food chain balance and community well-being; and − Prepare and take measures to avoid and/or remove solid waste, especially plastics, which affect ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental quality, especially in the Tonle Sap Lake and other water sources. Priority 3: Strengthening mechanisms to monitor changes in forest cover − Build a Server Database and a Protected Area Server Database; − Build the capacity of technical officers to compile, analyze and manage digital data and verify data in the field; and − Strengthen the use of monitoring management systems to report changes in forest cover in Protected Areas. Angle 3: Enhancing Local Communities’ Livelihood Priority 1: Promoting food security, nutrition and community cleanness through climate change adaptation measures and clean energy use − Disseminate climate change and climate crisis to the community to understand and have adaptive measures in cultivation and animal husbandry; − Promote waste management and reduce the use of plastic bags to make the community aware and have measures to keep environment clean; − Promote the implementation of agroforestry and climate resilient or climate-smart farming technologies to create green jobs and additional income for communities; − Promote the sustainable use of renewable energy in response to global climate change; 2 3 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Expand water sources and improve water quality for irrigation and daily use for communities; and − Promote nutrition and hygiene measures to communities, especially vulnerable groups, through education, outreach and implementation support. Priority 2: Improving local communities’ livelihood by increasing the income from ecotourism and cultural services and appropriate employment options − Strengthen the environment conducive to ecotourism through the preparation of legal documents, infrastructure and ecotourism fitness, as well as cooperation with relevant institutions and the private sector; − Strengthen the capacity to study and research on ecotourism development on the potential of ecotourism site and the formulation of tourism development plan; − Strengthen and expand the dissemination of ecotourism development, focusing on the quality of ecotourism products and services, including sanitation measures, waste management, especially plastic waste, and the use of clean energy in ecotourism areas; − Create and develop mutually complementary ecotourism and cultural tourism corridors; − Diversify occupations to improve the livelihoods of communities living in and around the protected areas to reduce dependence on natural resources; and − Increase and strengthen mechanisms to facilitate the development of ecotourism from all stakeholders, financing mechanisms to support community development and biodiversity conservation, mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation of ecotourism development and other necessary mechanisms. 2 4 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 Priority 3: Strengthening the conservation and management of natural and cultural resources by expanding forest cover and promoting the value of natural heritage, culture and traditions. − Prepare and revise legal documents for the support and management of communities protected area, natural and cultural heritage in protected areas in accordance with the Code of Environment and Natural Resources; − Strengthen and expand studies and researches on archeological sites and fossil stations both inside and outside protected areas; − Strengthen the capacity of sub-national officials and community committees on agroforestry practices, sustainable forest harvesting and processing, and community-based management of protected areas; − Strengthen the operation and management of the community network of protected areas and the network of women in protected areas; − Strengthen and expand cooperation with relevant ministries, institutions, local authorities and development partners on dissemination, establishment, management, conservation and development of natural heritage sites and natural resources; − Expand forest cover and restore forest cover to ensure sustainability and promote economic benefits and value of non-timber forest products; − Reduce forest vulnerability and increase forest resilience to climate change; and − Promote the preservation of the traditions and customs of local communities, especially indigenous peoples in protected areas. 2 5 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 4.4. Strategy 3 (Sustainable) Angle 1: Applying Compliance Priority 1: Complying with the political program of the Royal Government, the 7 th legislature of the National Assembly for the construction and defence of the motherland 2023-2028 − The first strategic goal is to protect peace, protect independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and protect all achievements of the society to ensure stability; − Second Strategic Goal: Build the Kingdom of Cambodia into a free, progressive and strong multi-party democracy based on the rule of law, sustainable and equitable economic growth, prosperous people, living in harmony and dignity, and the respect for human rights; − The third strategic goal is to build a social protection system that is environmentally efficient and financially sustainable, which ensures the provision of protection to people in response to economic risks, public health risks and other vulnerabilities arising from Changes in working and living conditions; − Strategic Goal 4: Promote the implementation of "Cambodia Mine-Free by 2025” and reduce UXO to a maximum; and − Strategic Goal 5: Continue to implement an independent foreign policy based on the law, build good friendship and cooperation between the Kingdom of Cambodia with all countries in the world and international organizations, and actively participate in the cause of peace and stability. Regional and global security and prosperity. Priority 2: Complying with the Pentagon Strategy Phase 1 Pentagon 2: ▪ Angle 1: Development of key sectors and new sources of economic growth; 2 6 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 ▪ Angle 2: Promoting connectivity and optimization of the logistics and logistics sectors, the energy sector, the water sector and the digital sector; ▪ Angle 4: Strengthening the efficiency and attractiveness of special economic zones, including industrial parks, agro-industrial parks and local free trade zones; and ▪ Angle 5: Innovation of financing mechanisms and financial products to support investment. Pentagon 4: ▪ Angle 2: Sustainable management of natural resources, cultural heritage and tourism, the strategic goal of which is to focus on conservation for development, to enhance the contribution of this work to the development of agriculture, industry and tourism, strengthening the management of mineral resources. Ensuring the sustainability of forest resources, fisheries, and soil quality, as well as protecting the development and full utilization of sustainable cultural and tourism heritage; ▪ Angle 4: Strengthening the management and modernization of urbanization, the strategic goal of which is to expand cities and develop new cities in the capitals and provinces, establish public parks and green parks, and strengthen management and implementation. Modernization of urbanization to ensure safety, aesthetics, good environment and well being for living and efficiency in socio-economic development; and ▪ Angle 5: Ensuring environmental sustainability and climate change preparedness, as well as promoting a green economy, the strategic goal is to minimize pollution and environmental impacts; Strengthening water management and strengthening resilience to climate change; And Contribute to Reducing the Impact 2 7 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 of Global Climate Change to Ensure Sustainable Development. Pentagon 5: ▪ Angle 1: Building a Digital Government and a Digital Citizen by Focusing on Leading the Digital Revolution, with the Royal Government as a Model and Leading in Capturing Digital Technology through the Digitalization of Public Works to Strengthen Public Efficiency Work and efficiency of providing public services to the people and the private sector and strengthening data-based governance; ▪ Angle 3: Building and developing digital infrastructure, focusing on building and expanding digital infrastructure, including digital connectivity and telecommunications infrastructure and data centers or data centers to enhance the quality and efficiency of digital connectivity. And telecommunication services; and ▪ Angle 4: Building Digital Trust by Focusing on Building Digital Trust through Organizing Digital Security Infrastructure and Mechanisms and Raising Awareness on Digital Security to Promote the Use of Digital Technology Comprehensively. Priority 3: Complying with relevant policies, strategies and relevant national legal norms and conventions, protocols and international agreements − Lead, coordinate and continue to implement laws and principles of national law, "White" environment and sustainable and environment and natural resources; − Lead, coordinate and implement relevant international conventions, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the United Nations Convention on Biodiversity, the Paris Agreement on 2 8 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 Climate Change, international conventions, protocols and other relevant international agreements; − Suggest national positions and strategies for entry into the implementation of international conventions, protocols and relevant international agreements aimed at strengthening ownership in the implementation of environmental strategy; − Capacity building of state institutions, including the Secretariat of the National Council for Sustainable Development, to become "Accredited Entity" from the Green Climate Fund, the Climate Change Adaptation Fund and other funds; and − Coordinate, cooperate and mobilize support to implement work in accordance with relevant national policies, strategies, and legal documents, as well as conventions, protocols and international agreements. Angle 2: Expanding Cooperation Priority 1: Strengthening and expanding cooperation with relevant ministries and institutions and local authorities − Lead the coordination, implementation, and evaluation of the implementation of policies, regulations, strategic plans, action plans, programs and projects related to the environment and sustainable development; − Lead and coordinate green economy, climate change, biodiversity conservation and biosafety; − Suggest national positions and strategies for participating in agreements, meetings and international negotiations related to the environment and sustainable development; − Disseminate and share good experiences and important achievements that the Ministry has achieved to the relevant ministries and institutions and local authorities to understand and follow; 2 9 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Promote the integration of the environment and sustainable development into policies, regulations, strategic plans, action plans, programs, and related projects; − Strengthen and expand the implementation of the policy "Safe villages, communes and Sangkat’s" with sub-national administrations; and − Collaborate and mobilize support to enhance cooperation with relevant ministries and institutions and local authorities to achieve the success of the Clean and Green Strategy. Priority 2: Enhancing cooperation with relevant development partners − Lead the negotiation and coordination of the implementation of policies, regulations, strategic plans, action plans, programs and projects related to the environment and sustainable development; − Leading the negotiation and coordination of technical work related to the green economy, climate change, biodiversity conservation and biosafety; − Lead, coordinate and participate in forums, seminars, training courses and related events within the framework of the United Nations; − Disseminate and share good experiences and key achievements of the Ministry to the development partners to understand, follow and continue to support the prestige of the Ministry in the international community; − Integrate environmental work and sustainable development into policies, regulations, strategic plans, action plans, programs and related projects; 3 0 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Sharpening programs and projects in the field of environment and sustainable development to meet the priorities of the Ministry; and − Collaborate and mobilize support to enhance cooperation with development partners to achieve the success of the clean and green strategy towards carbon neutral development. Priority 3: Promoting the participation of public and private sectors in environmental friendly activities − Inspire the public to understand the negative effects of environmental destruction in order to participate in environmentally friendly activities; − Disseminate and educate the public about the benefits of environmental protection and sustainable development; − Expand the public movement to participate more actively in the work of the environment and sustainable development; − Establish good habits for the public to accept and participate in the implementation of the strategies of clean and green issued by the Ministry of Environment; − Encourage the private sector to participate in activities with the Ministry by providing thank you cards, commendation cards and invitations to participate in various environmental events; − Build the capacity of the private sector, especially private financial institutions, to become "Accredited Entities" to obtain low-interest loans from the Green Climate Fund, Climate Change Adaptation Fund and other environmental funds; and − Collaborate and mobilize supports to enhance the participation of the private and public sectors to achieve the success of the Clean and Green Strategies. 3 1 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 Angle 3: Strengthening Coordination Priority 1: Enhancing the performance of relevant working groups − Update the inter-ministerial working group, technical working group and key staff related to environmental work and sustainable development; − Coordinate management and technical work with relevant ministries, institutions, local authorities and development partners to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the implementation of the goals of the environmental strategies; − Organize meetings, trainings, workshops and events to update work, expand friendships and strengthen the capacity of relevant working groups; − Monitor the performance of the relevant working groups and make recommendations to guide the implementation of the work to be more effective; and − Coordinate and mobilize support to improve the performance of relevant working groups in the field of environment and sustainable development. Priority 2: Facilitating the preparation of related programs and projects. − Establish a program and project management committee to guide the implementation of projects to complement each other and in line with the priorities of the Ministry, which has three levels: Secretary of State level plays role as a leader , Undersecretary of State level as a facilitator and below Director General level as a manager; − Update existing programs and projects related to environment to review and recommed for further implementation; 3 2 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Learn from examples of best practices from other countries and the specific situation of Cambodia to better design and manage programs and projects; and − Coordinate and mobilize support to accelerate the design and implementation of relevant programs and projects in the field of environment and sustainable development. Priority 3: Strengthening the monitoring and evaluation of related programs and projects − Strengthen the management unit of each program and project to increase the efficiency of implementation in accordance with the priority direction of the Ministry; − Regularly update the results of the implementation of programs and projects in the field of environment and sustainable development; − Monitor, evaluate and recommend the implementation of programs and projects more effectively; and − Coordinate and mobilize support to strengthen monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of relevant programs and projects in the field of environment and sustainable development. 5. Implementation Mechanism The Environmental Chakra Strategy (2023-2028) is designed to orient and indicate the priorities of the Ministry of Environment in promoting environmental protection, natural resource management and sustainable development, with three other core strategies: "Clean", "green" and "sustainable" to implement and turn the potential of the environmental sector into real benefits, serve the Cambodian people of all generations and to participate in responding to global climate change. Since the environment is one of the pillars, including the economy, society, and culture, which must be balanced in supporting each other for the sustainable development of the nation, the environmental strategy must strengthen and expand the capacity 3 3 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 of the mechanism. It is necessary to have strong compliance with the cooperation and coordination among all stakeholders to fulfill their roles and responsibilities more effectively and efficiently. These mechanisms include inter-ministerial mechanisms, ministry mechanisms, technical working group mechanisms, and sub national mechanisms. 5.1. Inter-Ministerial Mechanism The National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD) was established by Royal Decree No. NS/RKOT/0515/403 dated 9 May 2015 to promote sustainable development to ensure a balance between economy, social, cultural and environmental pillars in the Kingdom of Cambodia. The composition of NCSD consists of the Prime Minister is the Honorary Chairman, the Minister of Environment is the Chair, and 35 related ministries and institutins are members. As an inter-ministerial mechanism, it has the mission of formulating and evaluating policies, strategies, resources mobilization, capacity building, and strengthening cooperation related to sustainable development that covers natural resources management. NCSD has its core roles and responsibility as follow: − Prepare, guide, coordinate the implementation and evaluation of policies, legal documents, strategic plans, action plans, programs and projects related to sustainable development; − Mobilize support and resources for the implementation of policies, regulations, strategic plans, action plans, programs and projects; − Promote research, education, training, technology transfer and outreach; − Build and expand cooperation with development partners, civil society organizations, private sector, educational institutions and other stakeholders; and − Lead, manage and coordinate green economy, climate change, biodiversity conservation and biosafety. 3 4 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 In addition to NCSD, the inter-ministerial mechanism still has a number of technical working groups, which are composed of specialized units of relevant ministries and institutions and development partners to facilitate the planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of the work of specialized units and relevant ministries and institutions. In the field of environment and sustainable development. The technical team has the following roles and responsibilities: − Coordinat and technical with specialized units, relevant ministries and institutions and development partners to jointly achieve common goals in the field of environment and sustainable development. − Facilitat organization of meetings, trainings, workshops and events to update work, expand friendships and strengthen the capacity of relevant working groups − Facilitat monitoring the performance of team members to provide recommendations for orientation and strengthen the implementation of ongoing work. 5.2. Ministry Mechanism Pursuant to Sub-Decree No. 234 dated 17 th November 2021, the Ministry of Environment has the mission of leading and managing environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, appropriate and sustainable use of natural resources, and sustainable living for long-term benefits of every person and every generation. The Ministry has five divisions: the General Directorate of Administration and Finance, the General Directorate of Environmental Protection, the General Directorate of Protected Areas, the General Directorate of Local Communities, the General Directorate of Policy and Strategy, and the General Directorate of Environmental Knowledge and Information. The Ministry of Environment, a staff of the Royal Government of Cambodia, has roles and responsibilities related to inter-ministerial mechanisms, including: − Develop policy perspectives, policies and strategic plans and set priorities in the field of environment and 3 5 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 sustainable development in collaboration with relevant ministries and institutions, local authorities and development partners − Develop and implement legal documents related to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, appropriate and sustainable use of natural resources, and sustainable livelihoods. − Coordinate with relevant ministries and institutions in implementing policies, strategies, plans and programs related to the environment − Manage and coordinate all activities related to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, management of protected areas, local community development with relevant ministries and institutions, development partners and the private sector. 5.3. Sub-national Mechanisms According to the roles and responsibilities of the sub-national administration within the framework of accountability, the provincial administration has the role of supporting the implementation of policies, strategies, programs and projects related to natural resources in the province where the provincial Department of Environment is in charge of management. And the administration and staff of the Ministry of Environment on technical matters. The district-khan administration and the commune-sangkat administration have the role of cooperating with the provincial environment department in implementing policies, legal documents, strategic plans, action plans, guidelines, programs and related projects effectively. Based on the Prakas on the organization and functioning of the Department of Environment, the department has the following roles and responsibilities related to sub-national mechanisms: 3 6 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 − Lead the implementation of policies, strategic plans and legal documents related to the environment; − Lead the management and prevention of natural resource crime, biodiversity conservation and local community development; − Encourage local communities by supporting local economic infrastructure, promoting environmental education and joint forest patrols to create green jobs and additional income for communities; and − Strengthen and expand cooperation with local authorities, development partners, civil society organizations, the private sector, local people, and other stakeholders. 6. Conclusion The Win-Win policy of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen have brought Cambodia peace, national unity and territorial integrity over the past 25 years. This has created the opportunity for the Royal Government of Cambodia to implement the Triangle Strategy and the Rectangular Strategy in four stages successfully and effectively with many achievements in all fields, both political, social and economic, which has earned Cambodia honour, prestige and recognition on the international platform. Based on the aforesaid achievements of the Royal Government of Cambodia, the environmental sector has continued to be a priority in the political program of the Royal Government, the 7 th legislature of the National Assembly for the construction and defence of the motherland 2023-2028 and the first phase of the Pentagonal Strategy for the protection of growth. Equity, efficiency, and sustainability to build the foundation to achieve the vision of Cambodia 2050 under the leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. In this context, the Ministry of Environment, as a government body of the Royal Government of Cambodia, has prepared the Circular Strategy on Environment for 2023-2028 to be used as a roadmap in environmental sector for the next five years. 37 | C i r c u l a r S t r a t e g y o n E n v i r o n m e n t 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 2 8 The circular strategy 2023-2028 is designed to guide the implementation of environmental tasks with a core strategy that consists of three angles: building digital administration, expanding dissemination and strengthening policies. This core strategy serves as the driving force for the other three strategies, which include: Strategy 1: Clean, Strategy 2: Green, and Strategy 3: Sustainable. The Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 will boost Cambodia's environmental sector over the next five years to ensure environmental sustainability and environmental perfection in response to climate change and promote a more efficient green economy with the great benefits for all generations of Cambodians while enhancing the prestige of Cambodia in the international arena. Note Note Note Note