Siem Reap Times

Saturday, Jan 18, 2025

Environmental Concerns Raised Over Cambodia’s China-Backed Funan Techo Canal

Researchers Warn of Potential Ecological Damage to Mekong River Ecosystems
Chinese and British researchers have raised serious environmental concerns over Cambodia's Chinese-funded Funan Techo canal project, warning it could threaten fragile ecosystems and agricultural areas. The 180-kilometre canal, designed to link the Mekong River to the Gulf of Thailand, is a significant infrastructure project aimed at reducing Cambodia’s reliance on Vietnam for transport.

A recent study published in the journal *Nature* highlighted the potential ecological harm the canal could cause as it passes through biodiversity-rich habitats. Led by Professor Yang Hong from the University of Reading, the study warns that the construction may severely disrupt local ecosystems and agriculture if proper mitigation strategies are not implemented.

The research team, comprising experts from Hubei University of Technology, University College London, and the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, urged Cambodian authorities to consider environmental safeguards. They emphasized the need for more extensive environmental assessments and protective measures to minimize long-term ecological damage.

The Funan Techo canal remains a cornerstone of Cambodia's infrastructure development, but researchers stress that sustainable development practices are essential to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

---
Newsletter

Related Articles

Siem Reap Times
0:00
0:00
Close
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Showcases Cambodian Artistry with “Wild Spirits, Sacred Symbols”
Six Rare Mekong Giant Catfish Resurface in Cambodia, Signaling Hope for Conservation
IBC and KPMG Cambodia Launch ‘Market Updates’ Series to Support Business Growth
UNICEF Report Warns Two Million Cambodian Children Face Severe Climate Risks
New Gecko Species Discovered in Cambodia's Battambang Province
Environmental Concerns Raised Over Cambodia’s China-Backed Funan Techo Canal
Historian Reflects on the Khmer Rouge Era as Cambodia Nears 50th Anniversary of Regime’s Rise
New Boat Link to Connect Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, Boosting Regional Tourism
Cambodia Enhances Rail Freight Capacity with CRRC’s New 40-Foot Platforms
Cambodia’s Ongoing Struggle with Dollarisation: Efforts to Boost the Khmer Riel
Thai Police Extradite Suspect in Killing of Former Cambodian MP
Cambodia and the Philippines Strengthen Cooperation Against Transnational Crimes
US Users Flock to Chinese Social Media Apps Amid Looming TikTok Ban
Rising Alcohol Consumption Among Middle-Aged Adults Sparks Health Concerns
Cambodia Urges Farmers to Shift to Phka Rumduol Rice for Price Stability
Beijing Considers Elon Musk as Potential Buyer for TikTok’s U.S. Operations
Cambodia to Launch Nationwide Anti-Fake News Campaign
Cambodia’s Anti-Plastic Campaigns Engage Over 14 Million People
Samdech Techo Hun Sen Marks 40 Years of Leadership as Cambodia’s Prime Minister
Tumring REDD+ Project Strengthens Forest Protection with New Registrations and Boundary Canal
Cambodia Sees 5% Drop in Road Deaths in 2024 but Experts Call for Stronger Action
Military Police Officer Charged in Death of Cambodian Rapper RuthKo
Suspected Hitman Extradited to Thailand Over Murder of Former Cambodian Lawmaker
Japan Pledges Stronger Ties with Cambodia to Boost Economic Growth
Cambodia Hosts Inaugural YSEALI Civic Engagement Summit to Empower Southeast Asian Youth
Supachok Sarachat’s Controversial Goal Leads ASEAN Championship Best Goal Poll
Global Temperatures Surpassed 1.5°C in 2024, Marking Hottest Year on Record
Meta to Remove Third-Party AR Filters on Facebook and Instagram Starting January 14
Rare Cheetah Sightings Spark Hope for Conservation in Preah Vihear
Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary Expands Ranger Force to Strengthen Conservation Efforts
Chinese Actor Rescued from Myanmar's Scam Centres After Viral Post Raises Awareness
California Wildfires Set to Become Costliest in U.S. History
China’s Appetite for Salmon: A Game Changer in Global Seafood Markets
Prime Minister Hun Manet Welcomes Evercore Asia's Interest in Cambodia's Development
Cambodia Implements New VAT Refund Guidelines to Promote Riel Usage
Angelina Jolie Eyes New Life in Paris and Cambodia Amid Legal Disputes
Cambodia Targets Middle Eastern Tourists to Boost 2025 Travel Sector
HCMC Police Bust Human Trafficking Ring Exploiting Victims in Cambodia
Phat Sanday Ecotourism Community: A Rising Destination in Kampong Thom
IBC to Host 'Industry Views and Outlook for 2025' Forum in Phnom Penh
Cambodia Faces Challenges with an Aging Population
Cambodia's Rising Appeal Highlighted by British Newspaper The Times
Cambodia Reflects on Healing and Justice Ahead of Victory Over Genocide Day
Chinese Markets Face Pressure Amid Economic Uncertainty and Geopolitical Concerns
Asia’s Tourism in 2025: A New Era of Sustainability and Innovation
Cambodia’s Special Economic Zones Drive Export Growth and Investment Opportunities
Cambodia’s Tourism Sector Eyes Growth Amid Challenges
EU Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Cambodia's Socio-Economic Development
Authorities Seize Nearly 30 Cubic Metres of Illegal Timber in Siem Reap
Air Cambodia Launches Daily Flights to Bangkok Amid Rebranding
×