In 2012, Community Development introduced a micro-credit program with the goal of assisting poor farmers to improve their livelihoods. The program had multiple objectives, including supporting family economies and promoting environmental sustainability. As an example, a family received a loan from the project to start a used plastic bottle-buying and selling business.
The business helped the family of 59-year-old Ms. Pen Yoeun, a widow, to raise her two grandchildren. Her grandchildren are now able to continue their education, and Ms. Pen Yoeun plans for them to continue their studies. Prior to participating in the program, in 2015, the family’s monthly income was only 67,300 Riels, or about 17 USD/person/month. However, after the program, in 2022 their income increased to 146,300 riels or about $36.5/person/month. Ms. Pen Yoeun now earns between 4 and 7 USD/day. This business has not only facilitated their livelihood but also contributed to the environment by collecting plastic waste to sell for recycling, thus reducing soil and air pollution caused by burning and disposing of plastic bags and bottles.