Video / May 4, 2012

Film marks Cambodian activist Chut Wutty's work to save forests

On Thursday 26th April 2012 Chut Wutty, Director of Cambodian environmental watchdog Natural Resource Protection Group (NPRG), was shot and killed by members of the Cambodian Military Police while carrying out field research into illegal logging and land seizures.

Wutty was a tireless and fearless campaigner against the rapid escalation of illegal logging and land grabbing which is impoverishing ordinary Cambodians and destroying the country's rich natural heritage. The extent of the risks he and other activists face has been laid bare in the most shocking and tragic manner.

This film looks back at his work with community activists who are trying to protect Prey Lang forest, southeast Asia’s only remaining lowland evergreen forest. The forest is facing grave threats from attempts by the government, investment companies and other vested interests to clear the area to make way for rubber plantations and mining concessions. 

The film was made by Fran Lambrick, whose forthcoming film Rubbernaut will tell the story of families who live in Prey Lang forest, and the impact of the forest's conversion to rubber on their way of life.