Air Quality Improves with Collective Efforts: Environment Ministry
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By:
- Rin Ousa
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January 29, 2025, 5:15 PM
PHNOM PENH — As of Jan. 29, air quality across the country is generally good after a pollution spike, with only Pursat province at a moderate or yellow level.
Environment ministry spokesperson Khvay Atitya said the improvement was due to collective efforts.
The ministry reported on Jan. 29 that the concentration of air pollution particles known as PM2.5 was 30.12 µg/m³ in Cambodia, within the recommended standard of 50 µg/m³ for good air quality.
Among the 25 capitals and provinces, air quality has returned to blue and green levels, while Pursat province is at yellow level and recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 135.
“The improvement in air quality is due to the active public engagement in campaigns aimed at minimizing burning, which is a significant source of air pollution,” Atitya said.
“Communities have been involved in initiatives to reduce plastic use, improve solid waste management and prevent throwing trash in public spaces.”
Atitya said the capital and provincial authorities along with relevant ministries and authorities have taken measures such as discouraging paper burning during celebrations.
Keeping closer eyes on air quality is essential, Atitya said, urging the public to practice proper waste disposal at home and in public spaces.
“Stakeholders, particularly those residing in nature-protected areas should help prevent forest fires and avoid burning garbage or plastic in public fields, as these actions contribute to air pollution,” Atitya said.
The public is now more informed about air quality, Atitya said, noticing proactive pollution control measures and precaution steps taken by people to protect their health.
To maintain public access to air quality information timely, the ministry has deployed 56 air quality monitoring stations, three mobile vehicles and a satellite monitoring system.
On Jan. 25, PM2.5 was 65.72 µg/m3 in Cambodia, exceeding the recommended standard. The Health Ministry issued a warning, encouraging the public to wear masks and avoid outdoor activities.
