(Phnom Penh): A nationwide campaign encouraging people to reduce the use of plastic bags has drawn more than 14 million participants and led to a sharp drop in plastic use, Cambodia’s Environment Ministry said.

The “Today I Do Not Use Plastic Bag” campaign was launched on 1 September 2023, by Environment Minister Sophalleth Eang. It began with a single school before expanding to 10 schools, then to a district, a province and eventually nationwide.

The ministry said the campaign has reached more than 14 million people out of the country’s roughly 17 million population, reflecting broad public support.

As a result, plastic imports and domestic production have declined by 84.5%, marking a significant reduction in plastic waste and pollution, officials said.

Officials said one of the campaign’s most significant achievements is the participation of students across Cambodia, describing it as the foundation for long-term reductions in plastic use. As younger generations adopt environmentally friendly habits, they are expected to carry them into adulthood and pass them on to future generations.

Students have also played a key role in influencing behavior at home, helping shift attitudes among parents and siblings toward reducing plastic consumption, the ministry said.

The initiative has helped raise environmental awareness and is seen as a stepping stone for future sustainability campaigns aimed at further reducing pollution nationwide.
=FRESH NEWS