Results of the SEA-UEMA funded joint action research (JAR) project implemented by the Development Appropriate Technology (DATe) in Cambodia on improving indoor air pollution among urban poor households has generated interest among stakeholders, especially the Municipality of Phnom Penh.
This was expressed by His Excellency Mann Chhoeurn, Vice-Governor of the Municipality of Phnom Penh (MPP), during the final consultation workshop on improving indoor air quality held in Phnom Penh. The workshop was organized by DATe and was based on the results of the JAR entitled Indoor Air Pollution as a Reflection of Gender and Poverty Issue – a Study on Women, Health Behaviour Patterns and Kitchen in Phnom Penh. Thirty stakeholders from various related government agencies and non-government organizations as well as from the study.
Mr. Chhoeurn provided information and insights on the municipality’s concerns for the environment related to urban poor communities. Thus, he said that the MPP is interested in the JAR results as a basis for policy decisions in reducing indoor air pollution for better health conditions especially for women and children. Currently, Phnom Penh has no instrument or mechanism to measure the level of air pollution in the kitchen. Mr. Chhoeurn said that the MPP is willing to conduct pilot projects based on the JAR results in resettlement areas where new housing units are being built. He expressed support and willingness of MPP and the communities to work together with DATe, SEA-UEMA Project and other interested organizations in making this possible.
He suggested that an action plan for a pilot project to improve indoor air quality with target dates and identified responsibilities should be presented to the MPP so that this can be included in their work and budget plans. The plan should define the kind of cooking facilities, educating housewives, and providing loans for the appropriate facilities, structure and stoves.
He also said his office can provide loans for cooking facilities under the Urban Planning Development Fund, in line with MPP’s emphasis on improving the Cambodian capital to achieve the millennium development goals and in living up to the 2007 World Leadership Award given to Phnom Penh for Local Environment Renovation.
