PHNOM PENH — Cambodia has been ranked number one in the world for Land and Resource Sustainability for the year 2026 by the prestigious U.S. media and research organization, U.S. News & World Report.
According to data published by SEA Infographics on June 26, 2026, Cambodia leads the global index, followed by Slovenia in second place and Paraguay in third. Within Southeast Asia, Cambodia holds the top spot, with Laos and Myanmar ranking second and third in the region, respectively.
To determine the global rankings, U.S. News & World Report evaluated countries based on five key performance indicators:
- Carbon emission reduction
- Deforestation prevention
- Percentage of protected natural land areas
- Sustainable trade practices
- Water scarcity management frameworks
Cambodia’s top ranking reflects the Royal Government’s stringent commitment to land management, forest conservation, and the preservation of natural protected areas. These ecosystems play a critical role in carbon sequestration, mitigating climate change, and tackling global environmental challenges. The ranking utilized comprehensive, high-quality data from trusted international institutions, including EDGAR, FAO, UNCTAD, EU GHSL, and the World Bank.
This historic achievement builds upon Cambodia’s rising environmental profile on the global stage. Earlier this year, on May 13, 2026, the Kingdom was also ranked number one in the world for the Best Natural Environment.
Analysts note that this double milestone in 2026 is the strategic outcome of foundational environmental policies established under the long-standing leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, and actively accelerated by the energetic administration of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, driving Cambodia toward a prominent role in international sustainable development.
