The mangrove forest in Kep, Cambodia, has become an eco-tourism site that supports both wildlife conservation and local communities. Vendors like Lay Mariyah and Lai Rokiyah play a key role in promoting the forest by offering food and drinks to visitors, while using reusable containers to reduce plastic waste.
Cambodia’s mangrove forests are vital natural habitats for marine life and other species, as well as crucial sources of sustainable livelihoods. This reforestation site, managed by the Phum Thmey community, provides visitors the chance to explore, plant trees, and relax in huts with stunning sea views, while also serving as a space to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.
For local fishing communities, which are increasingly impacted by climate change, diversifying income sources is essential. While eco-tourism holds great potential, it faces challenges such as plastic pollution and fluctuating visitor numbers, limiting its economic benefits. More ecological practices need to be adopted to ensure the resilience of ecosystems and local livelihoods.
Co-Action: Sustainable Solutions for Livelihoods
Through the EU-funded CO-SAVED project, Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA) has equipped local vendors like Lay Mariyah and Lai Rokiyah with reusable containers to reduce plastic waste and improve their businesses. These vendors from the Phum Thmey community sell food and drinks to tourists at the forest entrance on Sand Beach road.
Lay Mariyah, who has been serving food for three years, understands the importance of reusable containers. “I can reduce plastic waste with these,” she says. “Plastic affects the beach, the environment, and our health. I hope my business grows and that more customers come.”
Next to her, Lai Rokiyah, who sells papaya salad and fried noodles, agrees: “It’s easy for guests to use reusable containers. They can eat and relax in a hut, then return the containers, and I can wash them.”
She highlights the importance of maintaining cleanliness: “Plastic affects the environment and our health. Tourists won’t come if the place isn’t clean.”
Co-Impact: Growing Awareness, Cleaner Environment
The shift to reusable containers leads to less plastic waste, keeping the mangrove forest area cleaner and more welcoming for visitors. This contributes to the sustainability of the eco-tourism site while protecting the environment.
Both Lay Mariyah and Lai Rokiyah help preserve the health of the ecosystem, while also improving their business practices. Beyond environmental benefits, the project empowers vendors to adopt more sustainable approaches to tourism. Lai Rokiyah, who has a young son, said: “Next year, he’ll go to school.”
We hope he grows up in a clean, healthy environment. Together, let’s create a plastic-free paradise for future generations!
