Increasing air pollution a worry for Angkor

Air pollution is now a major cause for concern in Angkor, which has risen sharply as a result of increased tourism.

In Cambodia, toxic air threatens timeless ruins
Global Post, 06 July 2014

A thousand years ago, they were temples so sacred only high priests were allowed to enter — the spiritual epicenter of a powerful empire that dominated Southeast Asia.

Now, millions of tourists climb among the elaborate, enchanting ruins. In this poor, struggling nation, they arrive at Angkor Archaeological Park’s ticket counter via decades-old tour buses that belch dark, toxic fumes.

Here, air pollution is at its worst.

At the 18 ticket counters, visitors — led by Chinese and Koreans — take refuge from the exhaust clouds by covering their noses with scarves.

Full story here.