On World Environment Day, we celebrate Long Sarou, an Australia Awards alumnus, for his work in promoting Indigenous land rights and sustainable climate action in Cambodia.
Sarou, with over two decades of experience, has contributed to various initiatives, ranging from forest management to REDD+ schemes to renewable energy to disaster risk reduction programs. He is deeply committed to environmental justice and the rights of local and Indigenous communities.
Sarou is an independent researcher, and his recent research work has examined the critical intersection of Indigenous land rights and forest carbon schemes.
On this important day, Sarou reminds us:
“Effective and meaningful environmental and climate actions require respecting and ensuring the protection of local and Indigenous land rights.”
Sarou is an outstanding example of how an Australian education empowers leaders who drive inclusive, community-based solutions to global challenges. He’s a proud alumnus who continues to shape a more equitable and sustainable future for Cambodia.
Sarou holds a master’s degree in climate change from ANU. He is currently completing his PhD, also at ANU, focusing on reclaiming Indigenous land and livelihoods in North-East Cambodia.