In a significant annual event dedicated to environmental preservation, King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia led the 29th Arbor Day celebrations at the Banteay Angkor Forest Extension and Restoration Station located in Khnar village, Leay Bour Commune, Tram Kak district, within Takeo province. The event, which took place on the morning of July 9th, saw a notable gathering, including key figures such as the Cambodian Senate President and Chairman of the Supreme Privy Council of the King, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Cambodian President of the National Assembly Khuon Sudary, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, along with members of the Supreme Privy Council of the King, members of the Senate, National Assembly, Royal Government, leaders of Takeo provincial government officials, and local residents of Takeo.
The tradition of observing Arbor Day in Cambodia, which commenced in 1952, aims to foster a beneficial environment and climate, crucial for both the planet and humanity. This year’s event marked a continuation of the proactive steps towards environmental conservation, taking place in a venue close to the Arbor Day site nurtured by King Sihamoni since 2008.
The day’s activities revolved around the planting of 3,000 saplings across a 3-hectare site, symbolizing the commitment of Cambodia towards green growth and ecological preservation. Additionally, the Forestry Administration of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries reported the successful planting of 16,500 seedlings across 10 hectares of land at the Sokrom Forest Extension and Restoration Station in Samrong commune, Phnom Kravanh district, Pursat province, further exemplifying the nationwide dedication to arboriculture.
Throughout the current year, the Arbor Day initiative has led to the creation of 475 hectares of day parks across 14 capitals and provinces. This endeavor highlights the collective effort to encourage across-the-board participation in forest and tree planting activities, resulting in over 80,000 hectares of plantations and the development of numerous green spaces within schools, pagodas, resorts, and private properties.
Furthermore, the Forestry Administration’s commitment to expanding Cambodia’s green footprint is evident in its achievement of planting over 20.50 million seedlings financed through the national budget by 2024. This initiative showcases a capacity to plant 500,000 seedlings annually, not including the countless other saplings planted by individuals across the nation for fruit production or other agricultural pursuits.
This celebration not only underscores the importance of trees and forests in combating climate change but also brings to light Cambodia’s dedication to fostering a sustainable environment for future generations. Through such collective and governmental efforts, Cambodia is steadfastly contributing to global environmental preservation goals.
Source: Fresh News
