AUGSUT 25

Although Cambodia currently contributes only 0.02% to global greenhouse gas emissions, it is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Cambodia will likely suffer from both increased flooding and severe droughts with associated impacts on food production, especially rice. By 2030, loss of forestry and other land use will account for 49% of Cambodia's annual greenhouse gas emissions followed by the energy sector (22%) and agriculture (17.5%).

Our research indicates that there are key actions that the government, and other sectors in Cambodia, should consider for helping the country move toward low carbon economic growth.

Reducing deforestation and promoting integrated resource management and cleaner fuels will not only reduce Cambodia's greenhouse gas emissions but also lower flood damage in urban and rural areas while reducing costly infrastructure rehabilitation.

Low-carbon growth is no longer the responsibility solely of governments; consumers have to demand action--locally , regionally and globally.

A version of this article appears in the print on August 26 2021, of The Himalayan Times.