Phnom Penh, Cambodia – October 16, 2025 – The Cambodian Ministry of Environment, the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) in Cambodia, and the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) successfully hosted the 2025 Annual Event of the Blue Skies & Net Zero 2050 Campaign under the theme “Smart Steps for Clean Air: Innovation, Youth, and Action for 2050.”

Held at ITC and presided over by H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Cambodian Minister of Environment, the event brought together policymakers, researchers, teachers, students, and development partners to advance solutions for air quality improvement and highlight its relationship with the impact of waste management. A highlight of the event was the Science Walk, which involved exploring Cambodia’s air quality monitoring systems and air quality laboratory funded by JST and JICA under the SATREPS project. The event also featured paper presentations on the new findings concerning air pollution sources, seasonal fluctuations, and health impacts, effectively bridging research and policy for practical solutions.

The event also showcased results from the ongoing “Waste Separation and Recycling Awareness at Schools in Secondary Cities” initiative, a collaboration between GGGI and the Ministry of Environment. The initiative has engaged over 15,000 students across 29 schools in Phnom Penh, Tbong Khmum, and Siem Reap, successfully separating thousands of kilograms of waste and generating additional income for schools.

Mrs. Nathalie André, GGGI Cambodia Country Representative, added, “Effective solid waste management can lead to a significant reduction of open burning of waste, which is central to Cambodia’s path to net zero by 2050, also play a major role in enabling clean air in Cambodia. Projects like our school waste separation initiative show how innovation, science, and youth engagement can create real, measurable change. GGGI is proud to work alongside the Royal Government of Cambodia and partners like ITC to turn these ideas into action.”

H.E. Professor. PO Kimtho, Director General of ITC, said, “ITC is excited to announce that we now have the facilities to produce scientific data on air quality, fully equipped with a monitoring system, laboratory, and human resources. The capacity-building efforts under the SATREPS project are moving our researchers to the next level of advanced ambient air quality research, thanks to our collaboration with Japanese partner universities. By engaging our students in science-based activities and building platforms to monitor air quality, we are equipping the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard our environment and future.”

H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment, said, “Today’s Annual Event of the Blue Skies & Net Zero 2050 Campaign is a moment to see results in action. Across Cambodia, students and teachers are leading change—separating waste and making a real difference in their communities. By combining these practical efforts with science and innovation, we are creating cleaner air and a healthier environment for all.”

Launched in 2020, the Blue Skies & Net Zero 2050 Campaign raises climate awareness and promotes ambitious climate action. Endorsed by the Ministry of Environment in November 2023, it has prioritized the waste sector and demonstrates the transformative potential of youth-led action, data-driven solutions, and multi-stakeholder collaboration in Cambodia’s climate action.

Note for Editors:

About the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI)

The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) was founded as a treaty-based international, inter-governmental organization in 2012 at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development. GGGI supports its Member States in transitioning their economies toward a green growth model that simultaneously achieves poverty reduction, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. With 53 Member States and 30 Partner countries and regional integration organizations in the process of accession, GGGI delivers programs and projects in over 50 countries. These initiatives encompass developing innovative green growth solutions, technical support, capacity building, policy planning & implementation, and assistance in building a pipeline of bankable green investment projects, project financing, investments, and knowledge sharing. GGGI’s work contributes to its Member States’ efforts to fulfill the Sustainable Development Goals and the Nationally Determined Contributions to the Paris Agreement. he Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) was founded as a treaty-based international, inter-governmental organization in 2012 at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development. GGGI supports its Member States in transitioning their economies toward a green growth model that simultaneously achieves poverty reduction, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

About SATREPS Project

Research and Innovation Center of Institute of Technology of Cambodia is conducting AIR-SATREPS Project, which is a collaborative research initiative between Cambodia and Japan, and supported by the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) under the joint sponsorship of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). The project aims to establish a comprehensive risk management platform for air pollution in Cambodia by integrating real-time air quality monitoring, advanced chemical analysis, and capacity building. The AIR-SATREPS project is made possible through the collaboration of government agencies, universities, and research institutions from both Japan and Cambodia. These partnerships build capacity and ensure long-term impact on Cambodia’s air quality management. Through institutional collaboration and scientific innovation, AIR-SATREPS seeks to provide reliable environmental data, strengthen national expertise, and contribute to evidence-based policymaking for improved public health and sustainable development.