Moldova reports increase in illegal logging and environmental fines

Illegal logging remains a persistent threat to the forest ecosystem in Moldova, despite stricter legislation. During the first two weeks of September, environmental inspectors detected the illegal cutting of over 130 cubic meters of wood.

Authorities have issued fines totaling more than 160,000 lei in response to these incidents. Daniel Zugravu, deputy head of the Environmental Protection Inspectorate, noted that illegal logging cases are increasing annually, particularly during the autumn and winter months.

To deter offenders, the formula for calculating damages to illegally cut trees has been adjusted to be approximately ten times higher, reflecting increased wood values and the need for stronger deterrents. Fines for individuals have also been raised from 2,500 to 5,000 lei, in addition to the calculated damages per tree.