Photo by the Creative Media Team of the DMC Media Club
By the Journalism and Storytelling Team of the DMC Media Club
Phnom Penh – It has been two years since the Department of Media and Communication (DMC) rolled out the ‘Plastic-Free Campus’ policy, and it’s now time to hit the refresh button.
On January 27, DMC issued a notice reminding staff, students, and teachers that they will be fined 1,000 Riel for each single-use plastic item found in their possession while on campus and in the school’s facilities.
DMC Director Ung Bun Y said he has seen a great participation in reducing plastic waste on campus since the campaign was launched in March 2024.
However, he said it is now time to refresh the message, especially after noticing that some have reverted to old habits of bringing plastic bottles into the campus again. He added that the reminder is also necessary in view of the recent arrival of first-year students, many of whom may not be aware of the plastic-free policy yet.
“That is why we are relaunching the campaign. The media team has created videos and released new posters to remind and encourage everyone to follow the rule,” Mr. Bun Y said.
Single-use items such as plastic bags, utensils, cups, lids, straws, food containers, water bottles, and other plastic items are not allowed on the school’s grounds. A fine of 1,000 Riels will be charged for each single-use plastic item in the possession of anyone while on the campus. The measure is part of DMC’s commitment to provide an eco-friendly space for teaching and learning.
“Since the rules were put in place, I see more students are using tumblers instead of plastic bottles,” San Thordadeth, a sophomore, said.
Another sophomore, Sam Darafy, said the policy encourages students to think twice before using plastic. “Whenever we buy something, we always think and try to find an option that doesn’t involve a lot of plastic,” he said.
Mao Dy, a freshman, said the policy has made the campus more welcoming.
“I feel that DMC truly cares about the environment. In fact, the environment was the factor that made me choose to study here. The atmosphere is satisfying, no plastic, a great policy, and even the bathrooms are clean,” he said.
