Ministry of Environment

The Ministry of Environment of Cambodia is the government body tasked with developing and implementing national policies related to environmental protection and natural resource management. It oversees the conservation of biodiversity, the management of protected areas, and the regulation of activities that may impact ecosystems, such as mining, agriculture, and industrial development. The ministry is responsible for monitoring air and water quality, managing waste and pollution control measures, and promoting sustainable use of natural resources. It also coordinates Cambodia’s response to climate change challenges, including adaptation strategies and mitigation efforts aligned with international agreements. In addition, the ministry works to raise public awareness about environmental issues and supports education and research initiatives that inform policy decisions.

Operating under the Royal Government of Cambodia, the ministry reports to the Prime Minister and is part of the Council of Ministers structure, with a minister appointed to lead its activities. Its jurisdiction extends across the entire country, allowing it to enforce environmental laws and regulations in all provinces and municipalities. The ministry’s distinguishing attribute is its role as the primary regulatory authority for environmental governance, positioning it at the intersection of policy, law enforcement, and sustainable development. It collaborates with other governmental agencies, international donors, and non‑governmental organizations to implement projects and fulfill Cambodia’s environmental commitments. As a subsidiary of the national executive branch, the ministry’s organizational structure includes various departments focused on specific areas such as forestry, fisheries, environmental impact assessment, and climate change.