Mangrove Area Encroachment in Cambodia: Problems and Findings

Abstract

"The study along with an awareness program in restoration of mangrove forest has found that a number of socio- economic, political and awareness issues are involved in mangrove destruction. Political instabilities along with dishonest opportunist people influence illegal activities resulting in heavy pressure on mangrove forest. The study documented unusual restricted access to the nearby major common property, that is an inland forest; this forces local people to utilise the resources of the mangrove forest instead, leading to destruction of the resource. The paper will highlight the major problems involved with mangrove destruction in Kampot province, and impacts observed in a mangrove restoration program conducted by APHEDA, a humanitarian NGO supported by Australian Council for Trade Unions working with the assistance of provincial government."