Prepared by Sok Chanraksmey – DPA

On July 10, 2024, ALiSEA in Cambodia organized the online thematic workshop (webinar) via Zoom Meeting under the topic “Conservation Agriculture (CA)”. This webinar aimed to to provided valuable insights and actionable knowledge for enhancing agricultural performance related to the benefits of cover crops, soil health (carbon), principles of Conservation Agriculture, and Conservation Agriculture in Agroecology. 30 participants ( 10 Females), representing 25 organizations, comprising ALiSEA members, non-members, and partners were actively participated in this.

Primarily, Mr Sar Veng, technical advisor at the Cambodian Conservation Agriculture Research and Development Center (CARDEC), and Mrs. Sieng Sreymom, Center Coordinator​ of the Cambodian Conservation Agriculture Research and Development Center (CARDEC) and Government Staff of the General Directorate of Agriculture shared research-based experiences related to carbon loss in agricultural practices in Conservation Agriculture (CA)  toward agroecology.

The group discussion was designed to improve soil quality, reduce fertilizer use, and promote the efficient use of available inputs. Its principles included soil cover, no tillage, crop rotation, and a pathway to reduce pesticide use while promoting agroecological practices in Cambodia.

There were also some requests for next topics: including 1) compost and cover crops for soil improvement, and 2) cover crops in vegetable and rice production; and 3) The next training should be organized with longer time, especially on the technical topics.

In conclusion, this thematic workshop contributes to the advantages of Conservation Agriculture by addressing soil carbon loss, improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and facilitating the transition from conventional practices to more sustainable, integrated farming systems through knowledge sharing and strengthened partnerships. Meanwhile, participants deepened their understanding of agroecological practices and identified potential areas for future collaboration.

“Conservation Agriculture is not just a farming technique — it is a pathway to sustainable food systems, healthier soils, and a resilient future for generations to come.” — Mrs. Sieng Sreymom, Center Coordinator of the Cambodian Conservation Agriculture Research and Development Center (CARDEC) and Government Staff of the General Directorate of Agriculture.