Based on the Climate Risk Country Profile – Cambodia report from the World Bank Group, this country faces significant climate risks due to rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting precipitation patterns. The country's tropical monsoon climate has experienced a steady increase in average temperature, rising by 0.29°C per decade from 1971 to 2020. Future projections suggest even more extreme heat conditions, mainly affecting southern provinces and urban centers like Phnom Penh. High atmospheric moisture levels will intensify apparent temperatures, increasing the risk of heat-related health concerns and challenges for agriculture and water resources.
Changes in precipitation patterns indicate wetter and drier dry seasons, leading to increased risks of flooding and drought. By mid-century, extreme precipitation events are expected to become more frequent, with some regions experiencing an increase in intense rainfall over short periods. These changes threaten Cambodia’s infrastructure, food security, and economic activities, particularly in agriculture and fisheries, which depend highly on stable climate conditions.
Coastal areas, particularly in the northern regions, are increasingly vulnerable to sea level rise and saltwater intrusion, threatening livelihoods and biodiversity. The frequency and severity of climate-related hazards, such as floods and droughts in the Mekong River Valley and Tonle Sap Basin, are projected to intensify, impacting communities and essential ecosystems. Cambodia has implemented various national strategies, including the Climate Change Strategic Plan (CCCSP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), focusing on carbon reduction, forest conservation, and adaptation efforts in key sectors such as agriculture, water management, and disaster preparedness.
Source: https://www.preventionweb.net/publication/climate-risk-country-profile-cambodia-2024
Discussion Question:
Considering Cambodia’s climate challenges, what strategies and solutions should be prioritized to enhance resilience? Share your thoughts on:
- Challenges: What are the biggest obstacles to climate adaptation in Cambodia?
- Recommendations: What policies or initiatives could improve Cambodia’s climate resilience?
- Lessons Learned: What can Cambodia learn from other countries facing similar risks?
- Stakeholders: Who should be involved in climate action, and what roles should they play?
