National Public Radio's All Things Considered is running a two-part series on the relationship between China’s need for raw materials and the exploitation of Cambodia’s resources, specifically destruction of its forests. The first part of the program, which is set in Prey Lang, can be heard here: http://www.npr.org/2013/01/29/170580214/as-china-builds-cambodias-forests-fall
The story follows local activists on a patrol through Prey Lang forest following sounds of a chainsaw deep in the forest, illegally cutting resin trees for export. They encounter a corrupt police officer who is employed by the owner of an economic land concession to facilitate and conceal the felling and harbor of the illegally cut luxury wood. Out of fears for their safety, the activists are ultimately foreced to turn back before they can seize or burn the wood.
See our campaign to take action:
Cambodia: Help Us Save Prey Lang (“Our Forest”)
Learn more about Prey Lang forest and the activists who protect it at PreyLang.com
