Our Impact

Preserving the Beating Heart of Cambodia

Tonle Sap feeds millions of Cambodians, shelters endangered bird species, and powers vibrant local economies. Yet unpredictable water levels, illegal fishing, and habitat loss have all undermined the lake’s vitality. Over four years, the EU-funded Our Tonle Sap project carried out targeted actions across six provinces: reforesting the floodplain, refining fisheries management, and guiding farmers toward resilient practices. Communities took the lead—patrolling spawning grounds, growing nurseries for native saplings, and running eco-tourism ventures that link livelihoods to conservation. Early evaluations show measurable gains in biodiversity, family incomes, and wetland stability. Below are three main impact areas, each reflecting the diverse benefits that emerged from this multifaceted initiative.

111,500+

Saplings planted in previously cleared or burned floodplains

105+

99 fledglings in monitored zones, and stable waterbird colonies (Painted Stork, Greater Adjutant, Spot-billed Pelican)

Bengal Florican nests documented,

76%

 in select grasslands from 2019 to 2021

Increase in Bengal Florican sightings

10,000+

Young people engaged through clean-ups, eco-fashion events, and conservation workshops

25%

cooperatives that improved product quality and marketing

Revenue growth for some women-led

4,000+

in patrol methods, sustainable farming, firefighting, and small-business management

Local leaders trained

16+

in target areas, dismantling illegal fishing gear and reducing habitat destruction

Days of monthly patrol coverage

Impact at a glance

Birdlife Impact

Tonle Sap’s rich birdlife has always served as a natural barometer for the lake’s health.

The project focused on nesting grounds for Bengal Florican, Greater Adjutant, and other threatened species. Field surveys showed a modest increase in successful breeding pairs where patrols, nest-protection programs, and habitat restoration efforts took root.

Grassland and forest fires decreased in monitored zones, reducing damage to critical breeding habitats. Communities continue to report the birds monitored in the areas they manage. While external pressures like fluctuating water levels remain, our data shows that concentrated interventions can stabilize—and revive—vulnerable bird populations.

More about birdlife

Community Impact

Families near Tonle Sap rely on fish, crops, and small businesses. Our initiatives helped fishers adopt legal gear and align harvests with quality habitats. 

Rice farmers raised yields through climate-smart techniques, and women-led cooperatives found fresh markets for fish-based products and eco-friendly crafts. Many households strengthened their economic footing.

Village leaders refined local rules on reforestation, fire response, and fisheries oversight, increasing trust and civic engagement. Many councils directed part of their budgets toward patrol stipends or nursery expansions, cementing conservation within local governance. Evaluations reveal that these steps boosted family earnings, built community pride, and positioned youth as emerging leaders in stewardship roles.

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Ecosystem Impact

Restoring the floodplain and regulating fishing zones fostered healthier aquatic and terrestrial habitats.

Illegal nets and electric gear declined in target areas, allowing fish populations to rebound. Reforestation teams planted over 115,000 native saplings, which will stabilize soils, shade waterways, and expand feeding grounds for wildlife.

Fire management efforts also preserved critical wetland margins and grasslands, cutting down on large-scale burns. Early data indicates a rise in species diversity—both flora and fauna—in sections where communities maintained active oversight. Although Tonle Sap remains vulnerable to upstream damming and climatic shifts, these measures offer a blueprint for sustaining a productive, biodiverse environment.

Discover Ecosystem Impact

Our Milestones

Our timeline spotlights each milestone—from early planning sessions and community trainings to habitat restoration breakthroughs—all driving real change in the lake’s ecosystem and local livelihoods. 

EXPLORE THE TIMELINE