The project “Building Resilience of Cambodian Communities Using Natural Infrastructure and Promoting Diversified Livelihood” is implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and executed by the Cambodian Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with relevant sectoral ministries and local leadership. It focuses on addressing the increasing vulnerability of Cambodia’s coastal communities—particularly in Prey Nob district, Preah Sihanouk province—by promoting the restoration and protection of healthy coastal mangrove ecosystems as a core natural infrastructure strategy.
Prey Nob, the project’s target area, is a low-lying coastal district highly susceptible to climate risks such as sea level rise, storm surges, saltwater intrusion, and extreme weather events. Socio-economically, the region holds national importance as the largest rice-growing area along Cambodia’s coast, with approximately 10,000 hectares of rice fields protected by a vulnerable dyke system. The project addresses these intersecting risks through nature-based solutions that strengthen resilience across water, food, energy, and ecosystem sectors.
In addition to driving local impact, the project aims to serve as a replicable model. Lessons learned and documented throughout implementation will contribute to regional and global dialogues on natural infrastructure, resilience, and climate adaptation. A strong emphasis is placed on gender-responsive approaches and inclusive communication to ensure all stakeholders, especially women and vulnerable groups, have a voice in shaping and benefiting from project outcomes.