Cambodia Ranked World’s Best Country for Natural Environment
Cambodia Ranked World’s Best Country for Natural Environment
PHNOM PENH, May 17, 2026 — Cambodia has been ranked the world’s top country for natural environment quality in 2026 by U.S. News & World Report, according to findings highlighted by regional platform SEA Infographics.
The report placed Cambodia first globally and also ranked it highest in Southeast Asia for natural environment conditions, citing factors including air quality management, biodiversity conservation, sustainable living and natural resource protection.
Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth described the ranking as a major achievement for Cambodia on the international stage, saying it reflected the country’s efforts to balance development with environmental protection.
Cambodian officials said the ranking also highlighted long-term environmental policies implemented under former Prime Minister and current acting head of state Hun Sen and continued under Prime Minister Hun Manet through the government’s “Pentagonal Strategy.”
According to the Ministry of Environment, Cambodia currently manages 73 protected natural areas covering more than 7 million hectares, or around 41% of the country’s total land area.
Authorities said conservation efforts include stricter law enforcement against environmental crimes, biodiversity protection programs and nationwide tree-planting campaigns aimed at restoring forests and strengthening climate resilience.
The ministry added that Cambodia is continuing efforts to distribute at least one million tree saplings to citizens as part of broader environmental restoration policies and its long-term target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The ranking drew attention online after an infographic comparing global and Southeast Asian natural environment standings circulated widely on social media.
