Phnom Penh waste sent to landfills falls nearly 10% during Pchum Ben

October 12, 2026

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Phnom Penh waste sent to landfills falls nearly 10% during Pchum Ben

The volume of waste collected and delivered to landfills in Phnom Penh fell by nearly 10% during the 15-day Pchum Ben festival this year, reflecting improvements in public waste-disposal practices and environmental awareness, according to the Ministry of Environment (MoE).

The Enterprise for Managing Waste Transfer Stations and Solid Waste Landfills (ETSW) reported that authorities and waste collection companies transported 55,648 tonnes of waste to landfills in the capital during the 15-day festival in 2026, down 9.93% from the same period last year.

Ministry of Environment spokesman Khvay Atitya said the reduction was significant, particularly because households typically purchase more goods and prepare more food than usual during the annual religious festival.

He attributed the decline to greater public awareness of proper waste disposal, reduced plastic littering and improved sanitation at pagodas and in local communities.

“Residents are increasingly avoiding littering with rubbish and plastic bags in pagoda compounds, while many pagodas have improved waste-management arrangements by providing rubbish bins and keeping disposal areas clean,” he said.

Atitya credited monks, pagoda committees, Buddhist followers, local authorities and residents with maintaining cleanliness during the festival.

He added that effective waste management during festivals requires active participation from both authorities and the public, helping establish cleaner living habits and improve the country’s overall environment.

Cambodia generates more than 11,500 tonnes of waste daily, or over four million tonnes annually, according to the ministry’s figures.

Phnom Penh alone produces between 4,000 and 4,500 tonnes of waste per day.

However, only an estimated 70% to 80% of the waste generated nationwide is officially collected and transported to disposal sites, highlighting the need to strengthen collection services, waste separation and disposal infrastructure.

The decline in waste delivered to landfills during Pchum Ben points to the potential benefits of public participation and improved waste-management practices. Continued investment in infrastructure and public education will remain important to reducing waste generation and improving environmental sustainability.