Deadline: 29-Aug-2025
The Ministry of Environment and the Department of Agricultural Engineering (DAEng) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Cambodia are collaborating to implement integrated rice straw management. This initiative aims to reduce black carbon emissions through demonstration projects that focus on scaling up mechanization-based solutions for managing crop residues in Cambodia.
The project builds upon two ongoing initiatives. One is funded by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), which focuses on training programs for reducing open waste burning and air pollution. The other is supported by UNESCAP and involves strengthening mechanization-based solutions for climate-smart crop residue management in Cambodia, Indonesia, and Nepal.
In addition, the project responds to a request from Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment to reduce black carbon emissions in the transport sector. It seeks to strengthen enforcement of vehicle emissions regulations using globally recognized methods for on-road and periodic inspections. It will also help build capacity for planning the implementation of Euro 6 vehicle emission standards.
The estimated cost of the project is $500,000. Eligible applicants must be NGOs, IGOs, or other not-for-profit entities. They must submit proposals within the budget limit or provide a clear justification if additional funding is required. The project duration must be less than 24 months, and financial criteria must be met, including the submission of the last three audited financial statements. For-profit entities may only participate as stakeholders or partners, and not as lead applicants.
By the end of the project, at least 30% of the participating farmers—specifically in Takeo, Prey Veng, and Banteay Meanchey provinces—are expected to adopt improved technologies and practices for integrated rice straw management. An implementation and monitoring plan for mitigation strategies must be approved by the Ministry of Agriculture. The government is also expected to endorse project proposals for public and private funding, using the three pilot provinces as models.
Proposals will be evaluated based on several criteria. These include the clarity of the plan to achieve results, scalability and sustainability of outcomes, contribution to reducing short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), stakeholder involvement, and awareness of potential risks. Projects should align with existing initiatives and demonstrate organizational capacity. A well-justified and cost-effective budget is essential, and proposals must meet the OECD DAC gender equality marker Score 1.
For more information, visit CCAC.