Green Sprouts exhibition gives away 920,000 tree seedlings

by Sokhean
July 15, 2024

Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth holds a press conference with reporters at the Green Sprout exhibition on July 12. KT/Chor Sokunthea photo

The Ministry of Environment concluded its three day Green Sprouts exhibition, where 920,000 seedlings were distributed to the public.

The event, which also featured the 4th National Orchid Forum, aimed to promote tree planting and raise awareness about environmental conservation.

The exhibition showcased a variety of Khmer products and displayed numerous seedlings and saplings for public distribution.

The primary goal was to highlight the importance of Cambodia’s indigenous plant species and encourage public participation in natural resource conservation and biodiversity.

During the closing ceremony on Friday, Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth emphasised the critical link between deforestation and climate change and noted the growing public awareness of environmental issues.

“Before, people did not know that deforestation causes climate changes,” he said.

Sophalleth added that Cambodia currently boasts over 41% forest cover and expressed hope that the Green Sprouts campaign would help the nation to achieve 60% forest cover.

He said this goal aligns with Cambodia’s Green Strategy and its Circular Strategy on the Environment, which is part of the Pentagonal Strategy–Phase I (2023-2028) initiated under Prime Minister Hun Manet’s leadership.

The minister also referenced Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, which facilitates the sale of carbon credits in vulnerable markets. He added that US and Japanese companies are already purchasing carbon credits from Cambodia, demonstrating international support for the country’s environmental efforts.

“What we are doing is meaningful,” Sophalleth said, calling for public support for these initiatives.

At a press conference following the event, Sophalleth noted that 920,000 seedlings were distributed during the exhibition.

He also expressed his satisfaction with the success of this first exhibition and announced plans to continue the event in Phnom Penh next year and his desire to see the event organised in provincial capitals as well in order to inspire broader participation in tree planting.

Sophalleth said that the Ministry of Environment aims to prepare at least five million seedlings for distribution next year, with plans to establish nurseries capable of producing 10 million indigenous seedlings annually.

He emphasised the importance of matching tree species to local land conditions to ensure successful growth.

Sophalleth expressed his happiness with the results of this inaugural seedling distribution, noting that it cultivated a love for trees among Cambodians of all ages. From July 10-12, nearly a million seedlings, including rosewood, fruit trees, flooded forest species and mangrove trees, were distributed for free in Phnom Penh for planting throughout Cambodia.

The event concluded with the minister expressing a renewed commitment to forest conservation and sustainable development in order to foster a greener future for Cambodia.

Rin Sopheak, a resident of Phnom Penh who attended the last day of the Green Sprouts exhibition to collect seedlings, expressed his support for the event and its aim to encourage people to plant trees.

“As a resident, I am happy to support this event and will bring the rosewood seedling to plant at my residence,” he said, urging others to plant seedlings as well. “Tree planting will contribute to reducing climate change. I call on all people across the country to think about a green environment. If you cannot contribute to tree planting, then at least don’t cut down trees, please.”

Sophalleth also said that the new government has initiated the first phase of the Pentagonal Strategy. Under this strategy, Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed the Ministry of Environment to focus on three pillars of the Circular Strategy on Environment: Clean, green and sustainable.

Sophalleth explained that greenery acts as a natural air purifier, essential for sustaining healthy lives.

“Without fresh air to breathe, our health is not good. Additionally, trees are a future source of income for Cambodia,” he said. “Planting trees now is an investment for the next generation, benefiting both the economy and our welfare. We are preparing homes and treasures for our descendants.”

The minister called on all stakeholders to participate in the Ministry of Environment’s campaign for green cleanliness and sustainability through the Green Sprouts exhibition and other initiatives.

He emphasised the goal of achieving a clean, green and sustainable environment that is worthy of a civilised country and renowned worldwide.