"ADB Warns Cambodia’s Growth Will Be Stunted by Climate Change", 12 April 2023

Cambodia’s long term economic growth faces significant threats from climate change and could dampen prospects for becoming an upper-middle income country in the coming years, according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB) report issued …

At least 10% of Cambodia’s GDP would be lost by 2050 due to extreme weather events and rising temperatures, the ADB predicted.

“Cambodia is rendered highly vulnerable to climate change by geography, weak governance and high dependence on climate-sensitive pursuits,” the report said.

People dependent on agriculture and fishing are most vulnerable to the economic impact of climate change, the report highlighted…

… Fishermen Sen Saveth​, from Kampong Chhnang’s Kampong Tralach Leou fishing community, said the unpredictability of the weather and the diminishing flow of the Tonle Sap river due to upstream hydroelectric development and climate change, were already making it harder for him and his neighbors.

… “Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of flooding and drought, raise average temperatures and sea levels, and worsen saline intrusion,” the ADB’s reported, …

… The government has also, on paper, committed to pursuing green growth through its National Strategic Plan on Green Growth, 2013–2030 , focusing on efficient use of natural resources, environmental sustainability, green investments and jobs.

The ADB’s report shows that deforestation, expanding rice cultivation, and rising energy demand from industrial production have caused Cambodia’s carbon emissions to rise, even as Cambodia remains a comparatively low emitter of greenhouse gasses globally.

“Scaling up green investment in priority sectors would help Cambodia unlock its long-term growth potential,” the ADB reported…