Background

The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB), located near the famous temples of Angkor, is the first nature conservation centre in Cambodia. The ACCB aims to contribute to the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity in Cambodia. The ACCB pursues objectives in a variety of fields – from wildlife rescue, conservation breeding and reintroduction of endangered species to research and in situ conservation as well as environmental education. Several persons and institutions are responsible for the conception, planning, implementation and operation of the ACCB. The idea to build a wildlife rescue and conservation centre in the Angkor region of north-western Cambodia was envisioned by the late Sam Veasna, a Cambodian biologist of international reputation. The ACCB implements a diversity of conservation actions and further activities are planned. Cambodia’s wildlife is endangered due to poaching, illegal wildlife trading and deforestation. Numerous species are already on the brink of extinction. We provide comprehensive material with further information upon the ACCB and volunteering on site. The ACCB is already supported by various people, organisations and institutions.

Mission

The ACCB aspires to become a focal point for wildlife conservation and environmental activities throughout the northwest of Cambodia. The ACCB¹s aims and objectives are: To promote the rescue of selected native Cambodian wildlife and to provide adequate rehabilitation and release facilities while ensuring the maintenance of internationally recognized standards. To provide facilities and technical expertise for the conservation breeding of selected threatened species, and to initiate and carry out appropriate reintroduction and restocking programs. To serve as an education and training centre for communities, wildlife officials and visitors to the centre in order to increase awareness of and build capacity for conservation and environmental protection and management, and to promote the sustainable use of natural resources while linking international to local environmental issues. To initiate and participate in wildlife conservation and research activities in Cambodia, including in situ conservation activities, species recovery efforts, biodiversity inventories and natural resource-use assessment, and to provide information to support management recommendations for protected areas.