A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development

Research Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2001

In Phnom Penh, the rapid urbanizing process and flow of migration from rural areas have caused rapid population growth, which in tum, has been contributing to an increase of a host of urban environmental problems. The quality of environment is a matter of growing concern. The one of these problems is associated with solid waste disposal. In the present, solid waste disposal has become the most serious problem in Phnom Penh. The purpose of this study is to reviews the waste collection and disposal in Phnom Penh, study the present disposal practice of households, hotels and restaurants, especially to find out the factors that determine the low participation of those actors in solid waste disposal management. The study was found that there are many factors determining the low participation of local communities. The factors include social and economic condition of the city, insufficiency of solid waste collection system, insufficiency of information and environmental education programs, lack of coordination among concerned organizations, lack incentives to do waste separation and participate in environmental programs. Therefore, in order to encourage active community participation in solid waste disposal management, all constraints encountered need to be urgently improved. Public and private partnership, privatization and action plans have to be considered. This study recommends a strategy and way to increase community participation by strengthening and improving the constraints founded.