The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has joined forces with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to foster sustainable tourism practices in the Kingdom, aiming to elevate the nation as a premier global tourism locale. This partnership focuses on the dual goals of conserving natural assets and enhancing the adoption of renewable energy sources.
This collaboration was initiated when Sok Soken, the Minister of Tourism, welcomed Bella Roscher, the Head of Global Network Development at WWF, and Richard Scotney, the Global Energy Efficiency Lead, for a constructive dialogue in Phnom Penh. The discussion revolved around strategies for nurturing tourism that is both resilient and conducive to the preservation of nature.
In the conversation, Soken unveiled the government’s ambitious plan to position the Kingdom as a leading destination for quality tourism on the global stage. This vision is grounded in the principles of sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices that emphasize the safeguarding of natural resources and minimizing energy consumption through the promotion of ecotourism and renewable energy usage.
Soken highlighted the necessity of collective efforts from various sectors to realize this vision. He pointed out that such collaborative endeavors could be facilitated through a framework of institutional and private partnerships, particularly in conjunction with the newly established Cambodia Tourism Marketing and Promotion Board (CTB), which has received endorsement from the Royal Government.
Bella Roscher shared insights into WWF’s contributions, particularly through the ‘Reconstruction of Environmentally and Climate-friendly Tourism’ project initiated in 2022 with support from the Swiss Development Agency. This project is dedicated to enhancing ecotourism and supporting tourism communities within the upper Mekong region, covering areas such as Kratie, Stung Treng, and Mondulkiri provinces.
Richard Scotney, in a discussion with Khmer Times, shed light on WWF’s endeavors in conducting feasibility studies for over ten hospitality establishments throughout the Kingdom. These studies have demonstrated the financial and environmental benefits of integrating solar energy solutions, promoting sustainable practices among hotels and restaurants.
Furthermore, the Cambodia Energy Efficiency Competition has seen participation from more than twelve hospitality businesses, all vying to reduce their operational costs and carbon footprint through energy-efficient practices.
Scotney also highlighted the installation of solar energy systems at various community-based ecotourism sites within the Mekong Flooded Forest. This initiative not only fosters local community revenue generation and wildlife protection but also enhances customer service while reducing reliance on diesel fuel, marking a significant step towards sustainable tourism development.
Source: Khmer Times
