Cambodia has positioned itself as a global frontrunner in the implementation of REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) projects, with at least ten active or upcoming initiatives across the country. These efforts are set to receive a significant boost, as Cambodia prepares to secure $40 million in funding from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to support its national REDD+ program.
What is REDD+?
REDD+ stands for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, and the “+” includes the role of conservation, sustainable forest management, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries.
The initiative is part of international efforts under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to mitigate climate change. REDD+ provides financial incentives to developing countries to preserve their forests rather than converting them for agriculture, logging, or other uses.
By protecting forests, REDD+ helps reduce carbon emissions, conserves biodiversity, and supports the livelihoods of local communities who depend on forest ecosystems. It also creates a mechanism for selling carbon credits, which can be purchased by governments or corporations seeking to offset their own emissions.
Cambodia’s Progress and Recognition in REDD+ Implementation
During a courtesy meeting on March 26 with Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth, Salimata D. Follea, the World Bank’s representative in Cambodia, reaffirmed the country’s international standing in REDD+ project implementation. A statement from the Ministry of Environment, released on March 27, highlighted her recognition of Cambodia as a global leader in this area.
Minister Sophalleth expressed pride in the achievements of Cambodia’s REDD+ projects and the support they have garnered from the international community. He noted that these initiatives have attracted major global corporations to purchase carbon credits from Cambodia. The revenue generated from these sales is being reinvested into forest conservation efforts and improving the livelihoods of local communities.
The carbon credits produced by these projects are also contributing toward Cambodia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), supporting the country’s long-term goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The minister attributed Cambodia’s high ranking to the government’s strong environmental policies, active natural resource management, and inclusive collaboration with institutions and local authorities—especially the active engagement of local communities in REDD+ activities.
$40 Million in New Funding Announced
Cambodia is set to receive $40 million in new funding from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), a significant development announced during the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The funds are expected to enhance the scope and impact of the country’s national REDD+ program and support ongoing and future projects.
Key REDD+ Projects Across Cambodia
Cambodia’s REDD+ projects include well-known initiatives such as Keo Seima, the Southern Cardamom Mountains, Tumring, the Lumphat Wildlife Sanctuary REDD+ Project, the Central Cardamom Mountains, Phnom Tnout, the Northern Plains Landscape, Siem Pang, Prey Lang, and Phnom Samkos. While some projects are fully operational, many are still undergoing study and evaluation.
One of the more recent projects, the Lumphat Wildlife Sanctuary REDD+ Project, was launched in late 2023 and spans over 130,000 hectares. Administered by the Ministry of Environment in partnership with Natural Life Cambodia (NLC), the project is currently undergoing a final independent audit by SCS Global Services. According to NLC director Bou Vorsak, once the audit is completed, the report will be submitted to Verra, an internationally recognised body responsible for validating and issuing carbon credits. If successful, the first issuance of carbon credits is expected by 2026.
Looking Ahead
The Ministry of Environment acknowledged the valuable technical assistance it has received from international organisations in advancing REDD+ efforts. Looking ahead, the ministry aims to build greater capacity among both government officials and local communities to manage projects independently. It also plans to become an Accredited Entity to access GCF funding directly.
The World Bank and Cambodia’s environment ministry have a history of collaboration on initiatives focused on sustainable development, natural resource conservation, and solid waste management to improve local livelihoods.
