INTRACO Advances Climate Action with Completion of Phase 1 and Expansion of Improved Cookstove and Water Purifier Project in Cambodia

On March 29, 2025, INTRACO successfully completed the first phase of its large-scale initiative to distribute energy-saving cookstoves and water purifiers to communities across Cambodia. This milestone marks a significant step in improving public health, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering long-term environmental sustainability in the region. Following this achievement, INTRACO has officially launched the second phase of the project, in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Cambodian Women for Peace and Development (CWPD), the Red Cross, and the Ministry of Environment of Cambodia.

This initiative is designed to address two of the most pressing challenges faced by rural Cambodian households: reliance on inefficient biomass-based cooking methods and limited access to clean drinking water. By introducing improved cookstoves, the project significantly reduces indoor air pollution, mitigating the health risks associated with traditional open-fire cooking. Simultaneously, the distribution of water purifiers ensures a safer and more sustainable approach to water consumption, reducing dependency on firewood for boiling water and minimizing deforestation. As a result, more than five million Cambodians are benefiting from cleaner air, improved health outcomes, and greater energy efficiency.

Mr. Hoang Anh Dung, Founder of INTRACO, and H.E. Mean Som An, Vice President of CWPD, solidify their commitment to sustainability and community development through a strategic partnership.

A Global Benchmark for Carbon Credit Generation and Compliance with Aviation Standards

In addition to its direct social and environmental benefits, the project has generated more than 30 million carbon credits, which are eligible for international transfer under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

These grouped projects are particularly noteworthy as the first in Southeast Asia to meet the rigorous carbon credit standards required by the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). Established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), CORSIA mandates that airlines offset their carbon emissions through verified carbon credit programs. As a result, the credits generated by INTRACO’s project will directly contribute to offsetting emissions for over 100 airlines worldwide, ensuring compliance with international aviation sector regulations.

This accomplishment positions INTRACO among the leading global providers of carbon credits for the aviation industry, reflecting its expertise in developing high-integrity climate solutions that align with both market and regulatory requirements. The project’s adherence to CORSIA standards underscores its credibility, making it a model for future large-scale carbon mitigation efforts in the region.

Integrating Carbon Finance with Sustainable Development Goals

Beyond its role in carbon credit generation, this initiative is aligned with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing INTRACO’s commitment to fostering long-term socioeconomic and environmental benefits. By improving access to clean cooking technologies, the project advances SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), while also contributing to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by significantly reducing emissions from biomass combustion. Moreover, the deployment of water purification systems supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by ensuring access to safe drinking water without reliance on inefficient and polluting boiling methods.

Through the integration of carbon finance mechanisms, the project also enhances economic resilience by reducing household expenditures on fuel and medical costs associated with respiratory illnesses. By leveraging carbon markets, INTRACO is not only expanding access to cleaner technologies but also demonstrating the potential for sustainable, market-driven solutions to address climate change and energy poverty simultaneously.

Looking Ahead

With the launch of Phase 2, INTRACO remains committed to scaling its efforts, ensuring that more communities benefit from cleaner energy solutions and improved access to safe water. This project serves as a testament to the transformative potential of carbon finance, strategic partnerships, and innovative climate action in achieving global sustainability goals.