Cambodia has made great strides over the last three decades, transitioning to peace, transforming livelihoods and realizing striking gains in socioeconomic development. Accompanying economic growth, however, there have been growing pressures on land, water and forest ecosystems. These pressures are beginning to challenge the long-term viability of Cambodia’s development model and its ability to achieve the objectives set out in Visions 2030 and 2050: Cambodia’s Sustainable Development Goals. The goods and services as well as intangible benefits that accrue from Cambodia’s natural resource base are fundamental to the well-being of millions of people. Prospects for sustainable and inclusive development greatly depend on improved ecosystem management.

As Cambodia continues its transition to a higher level of development, it faces a historic opportunity to manage its natural resources for the benefit of both people and the environment. Cambodia can mitigate mounting pressure on forests and other essential natural resources by diversifying patterns of access and use, while building the foundation for an economy that continues to be strong and fair, and, crucially, more sustainable.