Moldova issues 100 fines for failure to remove ambrosia

Approximately 100 fines have been issued this season for failing to comply with obligations to remove ambrosia from land. Environment Minister Gheorghe Hajder announced the sanctions following a government meeting on September 9.

Responsibility for combating the invasive weed rests with the landowner, whether they are a private individual, a local public administration, or the state. The Environmental Protection Inspectorate issues fines when owners or local authorities fail to intervene after being notified of ambrosia presence.

Ambrosia is considered one of Europe’s most invasive and dangerous weeds. Its pollen can cause severe allergic reactions, including rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma attacks, affecting thousands of people annually. Additionally, the plant impacts agriculture by aggressively competing with crops and reducing land productivity. The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) maintains a periodic map of ambrosia outbreaks to help identify risk zones and coordinate interventions.