Cambodia is experiencing a surge in electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) sector, driven by both domestic consumption and foreign investment in an incipient manufacturing industry. However, adoption of circular policies and practices in the sector remains very limited and a weak e-waste management infrastructure result in growing volumes of e-waste being handled predominantly by an informal sector using environmentally unsound methods. Such practices lead to increased emissions of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including unintentionally produced POPs (UPOPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PDBEs), as well as mercury and other toxic substances.

This project aims to improve resource circularity and reduce the release of hazardous chemicals and wastes in the electronics value chain by addressing transformation levers (policy, infrastructure, innovation and learning, and multistakeholder dialogues) delivering results that national-level plans, policies, and incentive mechanisms for the circular electronics value chain; innovative and resource efficient products; markets to support innovation and behavior changes towards increased longevity; mechanisms to maximize reuse, repair, and material recycling; removal of hazardous waste streams in the electronics sector; knowledge management platform; and coordination and linkages among the relevant stakeholders.

The project will deliver multiple global environmental benefits (GEBs), including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (27,237 tons) and chemicals of global concern and their waste (2.7 tons of POPs and 0.3 kg of mercury removed or disposed, 20,411 tons of POPs/mercury-containing materials and products directly avoided) and POPs to air (1.7 gTEQ reduced). Other expected results include improved public health, a strengthened informal sector, and enhanced livelihoods.