The Ministry of Environment has produced a guide to Cambodia’s participation in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), dating back to the first Conference of the Parties (COP1). The informative guide was rereleased as the Kingdom prepared to join COP30, at the UN conference in Belém, Brazil.
The international climate summit (COP30) is taking place from November 10 to 21, and brings together thousands of global leaders, development partners, and private sector representatives to assess progress in the global response to the climate crisis. The Cambodian delegation is led by Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth.
According to the ministry, the guidebook compiles key information on Cambodia’s engagement in the UNFCCC conferences, from COP1 through COP29, and highlights the country’s preparations to demonstrate its renewed commitment at COP30 in Belém.
The ministry stated that the book was prepared to raise awareness among all stakeholders about climate change, by presenting the objectives and outcomes of each COP meeting and summarising the major decisions adopted over the years.
“Stakeholders can use the information in this guidebook to strengthen the effectiveness of their institutions in combating climate change, mobilising resources, mitigating climate impacts and enhancing resilience,” explained Sophalleth.
The publication also explains the importance of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol, the world’s first binding international treaty to address climate change.
Cambodia remains a fully engaged member of the international community in responding to climate change. The Kingdom ratified the UNFCCC on December 18, 1995, and the convention entered into force for Cambodia on March 17, 1996. Since then, Cambodia has been an active contributor to domestic and international efforts to combat climate change.
The Kingdom has also set clear national goals for climate action. In 2025, Cambodia submitted its Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC3.0) report to the UN, outlining its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 55% by 2035.
This ambitious target focuses on several key sectors: They are energy (including transport, industry and construction), Industrial Processes and Product Use (IPPU), Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU), and Waste management.
Through these efforts, Cambodia reaffirms its dedication to global cooperation in the fight against climate change.
