H.E. Dr. Chuop Paris, Secretary of State, Ministry of Environment

Representatives from the government, development partners, private sector and civil society,

Good morning, Chom Reap Sour.

It is my pleasure to welcome you at the validation workshop for the “Reduced Waste and Chemicals of Concerns Through Promoting Circularity in Electric and Electronic Management in Cambodia” project under the Global Environment Facility’s Global Electronics Management (GEM) Programme.

Cambodia’s rapid economic and population growth in the past two decades has led to a significant increase in the consumption of electric and electronic equipment, leading to a surge in e-waste generation, placing the country third in e-waste growth in East and Southeast Asia.  

The improper management and handling of e-waste poses numerous environmental and health challenges. At present, e-waste management is largely carried out by the informal sector with lack of safety and safeguarding measures with improper disposal leading to hazardous practices such as acid-leaching and open burning. This approach leads to higher emissions of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including unintentionally produced POPs (UPOPs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), as well as mercury and other toxic substances, creating serious risks for both human health and the environment.

Addressing this issue requires a collective effort. Governments, businesses and individuals all have a role to play. We must: a) Strengthen Policies and Regulations, b) Invest in Recycling Infrastructure, c) Raise Public Awareness; and d) Encourage Sustainable Practices.

The objective of the GEM project we are discussing today is to enhance environmentally sound management of electronic waste by reducing hazardous chemical and waste release, increasing circularity, and improving resources efficiency in the electronics sector of the country and thus contribute to the overarching principles of the Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028 and National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan.  

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

The issue of e-waste is not just about managing discarded electronics — it is about safeguarding the environment, protecting public health, and ensuring a sustainable future for Cambodia. Material recovery and recycling can create new income and entrepreneurial opportunities while reducing global demand for environmentally destructive mining and extraction.  

If we act now, we can turn this challenge into an opportunity for innovation and green jobs. Let’s commit to responsible e-waste management and work together toward a greener, cleaner, and healthier Cambodia.

In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Ministry of Environment for organizing this workshop and all of you for your participation and contributions in today’s workshop. I wish you all a productive and engaging discussion.  

Thank you. Som Arkun!