Cambodia is stepping up its efforts to embed Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principles into national development, aiming to attract sustainable investment and drive inclusive economic growth. The Ministry of Environment, under Minister Eang Sophalleth, has launched a series of ambitious initiatives to promote ESG adoption, green infrastructure, and carbon neutrality by 2050. 

In an interview with Khmer Times, Minister Sophalleth emphasized ESG as the foundation of Cambodia’s environmental diplomacy and national development roadmap. He urged businesses, particularly local SMEs, to align their operations with ESG principles, underscoring their role in safeguarding natural resources, fostering governance, and supporting long-term investment value. 

The Ministry’s Circular Strategy on Environment 2023–2028 outlines a path toward a carbon neutral strategy and 60% forest cover target. As part of this roadmap, Cambodia has rolled out impactful national campaigns including ‘Today, I Do Not Use Plastic Bags,’ which has reached over 11 million people, and ‘Clean Cambodia! Khmer Can Do!’ which has mobilized 6 million participants. 

“Our environment-focused campaigns are about more than cleanliness—they’re part of our national investment strategy,” Sophalleth noted. “We are laying the ESG foundation. Now, it’s time for companies to build on it.” 

The government is also engaging public-private partnerships to expand sustainable business conduct, urging firms to adopt CSR-led models and contribute to a cleaner Cambodia. The newly launched ‘Clean National Roads Without Waste and Plastic Debris’ campaign, aiming for visibly cleaner roads by 2025, is another example of aligning environmental goals with tourism and investment readiness. 

By embedding ESG into its core governance and encouraging ethical business practices, Cambodia is positioning itself as a forward-looking, green economy—ready to attract global investment and ensure long-term prosperity. 

Source : 

https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501684957/cambodia-pushes-csr-and-esg-to-drive-sustainable-growth-and-investment/