The recent announcement by the Minister Delegate for Water, Forests and Fisheries, Lucia Ana Varga, to amend the Forestry Code to strengthen sanctions against illegal logging has brought to the fore the major challenges facing forest management in Romania. At a conference in Ploiești, the official revealed that a new draft Forestry Code will be ready in less than a month, with the main aim of combating uncontrolled deforestation and protecting small forest properties.
Romania is facing a critical problem of illegal deforestation, a phenomenon massively affecting ecosystems in several counties. Suceava, Caracș-Severin, Prahova, Harghita, Covasna, and Maramureș are among the most affected areas of the country, where authorities have reported large-scale uncontrolled logging. These illegal actions not only endanger biodiversity and contribute to the disappearance of protected tree species, but also exacerbate local climate problems.
Lucia Varga stressed that the new Forest Code will contain specific measures to counter this phenomenon. These measures will include tougher penalties for illegal logging and the implementation of stricter regulations to protect small forest properties, which are often the target of these illegal activities.
The minister also mentioned institutional responsibility in the context of illegal logging, suggesting the involvement of certain institutions in a way that could facilitate these activities. Although he did not detail which institutions are concerned, his statements raise questions about the integrity and effectiveness of local and national authorities.
Another serious consequence of uncontrolled deforestation is the intensification of extreme weather events, particularly floods. Forests play a crucial role in the hydrological regulation of a region, and their disappearance severely affects the soil's capacity to absorb water, thus increasing the risk of devastating floods. In recent years, Romania has seen an increase in the frequency and intensity of floods, partly attributed to the loss of forest stands.
The absence of forests makes the land more susceptible to erosion and landslides, and the rapid accumulation of water leads to rapid runoff and flooding in low-lying areas. The economic and social impacts of these natural disasters are far-reaching, affecting infrastructure, agriculture and citizens' safety. Combating deforestation thus contributes directly to climate protection and public safety.
With the new Forestry Code, the authorities hope not only to prevent illegal logging, but also to promote reforestation and sustainable management of forest resources. These measures are imperative to ensure a stable and resilient environment in the face of climate change, Minister Varga concluded.
In conclusion, the initiative to amend the Forestry Code is a critical step in protecting Romania's natural infrastructure. Combating uncontrolled deforestation is not only a matter of environmental protection, but an urgent need to protect the life and well-being of its citizens. The rethinking of legislative and institutional measures, together with a clear responsibility on the part of the authorities, are essential for a sustainable future for the country's forests.
