Cambodia solid waste

In Cambodia improving waste management is a key challenge for Battambang (population: 160,000). The issue includes waste collection service, uncontrolled disposal (resulting in accumulation of household waste in waterways, drainage systems, community streets, as well as open burning), limited waste separation at source, and open burning in sub-standard landfills. These cause negative impacts on public health, particularly because of the release of toxic gases during burning, and reduce the overall livability, resilience and competitiveness of the cities. As part of the Green Urban Development Program Phase 2, GGGI Cambodia has been developing a Secondary City Strategic Plan in collaboration with national and sub-national government. The Strategic Plan focuses on 7 selected secondary cities and is articulated around 4 themes: i.)Integrated urban planning and green infrastructure development; ii.)Green local economy; iii.)Social Inclusion; and iv.)City governance. The Strategic Plan will guide government and development stakeholders from these cities in city planning and management to ensure sustainable local development, balancing economic growth and social and environmental development. The green development of these cities will promote a more balanced and sustainable urbanization in Cambodia. The plan is currently being finalized and GGGI is initiating the implementation phase. In collaboration with city officials, suitable investment projects which align with the Strategic Plan have been identified. One of the more advanced project ideas put forward by the secondary cities, providing an opportunity for swift action by GGGI, is focused on solid waste management in the city of Battambang. As the second largest city in Cambodia and with existing or planned waste management infrastructure, Battambang is an ideal candidate to investigate and demonstrate the financial viability of recycling opportunities which can then be replicated in other Cambodian cities.