In a belated step to conserve the nation's depleted forest resources, the Kampuchean government has announced a complete ban on the exports of logs and sawn timber. As if to set the seal on its new-found conservation zeal, agriculture minister Tao Senghour even announced a final date for the export of these commodities (April 30).
Alarm bells have been ringing furiously in Kampuchea ever since it was revealed that forest cover in the country had reduced from 70 to 40 per cent over the past 10 years. The crisis has escalated because while logging has developed into Kampuchea's main income- earner, environmental safe- guards such as replanting have not been given much consideration.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.