Siem Reap’s Green Shift: Voices Behind the Movement

A growing network of eco-conscious businesses and initiatives is reshaping Siem Reap into a destination where sustainability is not just possible but practical.

Following the launch of the Eco Siem Reap Handbook, Cambodia Lifestyle sat down with Marielisa Padilla, one of the people behind the project who has been working closely with the Provincial Administration and GIZ on sustainability initiatives. What began as a wish to connect the scattered knowledge across the city has become a catalyst for change — showing residents, businesses, and travelers how small actions can create big impact.

From refill stations and battery recycling to eco-markets and green hotels, this conversation reveals how Siem Reap is evolving — and why the city’s eco-lifestyle is about more than just reducing waste. Read on to discover how sustainability here is becoming both inspiring and enjoyable.

What inspired you to create the Eco Siem Reap Handbook? Can you share the moment or motivation that made you decide this resource was needed?

“When I began supporting the Provincial Administration on behalf of GIZ in sustainability projects such as the Wat Bo Village Initiative, one of my key goals was to co-create solutions tailored to Siem Reap’s urban challenges. To do this, I spoke with many businesses, NGOs, and individuals about their visions, practices, and ideas. Along the way, I realized there was so much valuable knowledge scattered around — from segregated collection options and battery recycling points, to eco-packaging suppliers and even what to do with used cooking oil.
Even though this task wasn’t part of our original project plan, I felt a strong wish to bring all this information together in one place. That’s how the idea for the handbook was born: to make sustainable living in Siem Reap easier, more practical, and accessible for everyone.”

How does the handbook show that living sustainably is not only possible in Siem Reap, but also enjoyable? What examples stand out for you?

“It shows that small changes can feel rewarding and even fun. For example, instead of buying plastic water bottles, you can refill at beautiful cafés or community spots. Or you can buy locally made bamboo straws that are both stylish and functional. These choices connect you with the community, give you the inspiration to try a different place, reduce waste, and give you a sense of being part of something bigger.”

Cambodia has a growing eco-conscious community. What surprised you most when gathering the businesses and initiatives for the handbook?

“Several things surprised me in a very positive way. For example, when I visited the recycling centers in Siem Reap, which most people don’t even know they exist, yet they are doing great work. I was also delighted to see how many businesses agreed to offer free water refills to help tackle plastic pollution, and to discover excellent sustainable, chemical-free products made right here in Cambodia. 

Also seeing some businesses immediately using the information provided in the handbook to adopt a sustainable practice. It showed me that sometimes, it’s simply about connecting the right information with the right people.”

The guide highlights a wide range of local businesses — from cafés to hotels to community projects. Can you share a few standout examples of how they are making a difference on the ground?

“I think every act is driving change, all businesses mentioned are an example and are making a contribution in their own way. We definitely need more of that. Some hotels are introducing refillable bathroom amenities and encouraging guests to bring their own tumblers, which is really important and send a strong message. For instance I think all of the around 70 businesses that have joined the water refill receive a recognition since they are contributing to tackling plastic pollution in Siem Reap in a very practical way. Local NGOs are collecting batteries and e-waste, which otherwise would end up in landfill. 

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The restaurants which are practicing waste segregation at source and have found ways to reuse their food waste through local farmers are a great example. All these are small-scale initiatives, but together they build a powerful movement that we need to keep growing.”

What does this collection of businesses say about Cambodia’s lifestyle today? How does it show Cambodia as a destination for people who want to live, work, or travel with sustainability in mind?

“It shows that Cambodia is ready to welcome conscious travelers and residents. Siem Reap is not only about Angkor Wat or Pub Street— it’s also about a community that cares for its environment. 

If you want to live, work, or travel sustainably, Siem Reap offers authentic opportunities to do so — from eco-markets to water refill stations to eco shops and green hotels. Of course, there is still work to do but the more people join, the easier and faster we can see positive transformation. I always say: every action counts — every bottle saved, every tree planted makes a difference.”

How do you hope both locals and visitors will use the handbook? Is it more of a directory, an inspiration, or a call-to-action for people to change their habits?

“All three. It’s a directory because it gives you contacts and services. It’s inspiration because it shows what’s already happening in the city. And it’s a call-to-action because it nudges everyone to make small changes — refill instead of buying, reuse instead of throwing away, sort your waste and recycle!”

How do you see the eco-lifestyle in Cambodia evolving over the next few years? What role can projects like yours play in accelerating that change?

“I believe eco-consciousness in Cambodia will continue to grow, especially with younger generations leading the way. Tourism will also drive demand for more sustainable practices. Resources like the Eco Siem Reap Handbook can accelerate this shift by making information visible and showing that sustainability is not only necessary but also practical, local, and even enjoyable.

Siem Reap is home to one of the world’s most extraordinary monuments, and it is imperative that the city itself remains clean and green. I often remind people in meetings: no tourist feels comfortable in a dirty city or one overwhelmed by traffic. If we don’t act now, we risk losing much of Siem Reap’s unique charm.

I am a strong advocate for more greenery in our cities, circular practices, conscious businesses, walkable streets, shared mobility, and renewable energy. These are not abstract goals — they are achievable. For example, we are launching an exciting urban transformation project at Bamboo Street, introducing eco-points for recyclables and piloting innovative ideas that can inspire replication.

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Since I arrived here, I have been striving to inspire people and colleagues about the power of walkable streets — and I am thrilled to see it coming to life. Soon, a stretch of the riverside street in Wat Bo Village will be regularly open to pedestrians, accompanied by local markets, creating vibrant, people-centered spaces that I am confident will have a lasting impact.

Of course, these changes are challenging, but I am confident that Siem Reap is ready. Each initiative shows that positive transformation is possible, and I hope the community, visitors, and partners will continue to support this journey.”

For someone new to Siem Reap, what simple steps from the handbook would you recommend to start living more sustainably right away?

“1. Carry your tumbler everywhere. In Siem Reap you can refill your bottle for free! Download the Refill App to find the closest station.
2. Separate your waste. Recycling options exist for plastics, organics, glass, and more — make sure it doesn’t all end up in landfill.
3. Choose eco-friendly packaging. Support local cafés, restaurants, and shops that avoid single-use plastics and offer sustainable alternatives.
4. Shop consciously. Visit eco-shops for locally made, sustainably packaged products for everyday use.
5. Plant and protect greenery. If you live or work in Siem Reap, help care for the trees and plants around you — every bit of shade and green makes the city more livable.”

Finally, what do you want readers to feel after reading the Eco Siem Reap Handbook? Is it about inspiration, empowerment, pride in Cambodia — or all the above?

“All of the above. I want readers to feel inspired by what’s possible, empowered to take action, and proud that Cambodia is embracing sustainability in its own creative and authentic way.”

Future

Indeed, the Eco Siem Reap Handbook is more than a list of eco-businesses; it’s a window into a community determined to keep one of the world’s most visited destinations clean, conscious, and welcoming.

It proves that Cambodia’s lifestyle is evolving for residents and travelers alike and that living sustainably in Cambodia isn’t just possible, it can be inspiring, practical, and even joyful.

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