FLEG helps manage forests in Moldova

The FINANCIAL — The EU-funded programme FLEG II is helping to better manage forests and combat illegal logging in Moldova.

Thanks to project research, the Moldova government’s forest management agency Moldsilva has ceased main felling operations in 140,000 hectares of oak forests to prevent the loss of the forest’s biological and economic potential, and balance natural forest growth, EU Neighbourhood Info said.
 
The oak forests are at risk because of poor management: “All these create unfavourable conditions for the forest sector to be sustainably managed, and most critical is that forests are losing their biological potential and ability to provide the population with goods and products,” said Iurie Apostolache, Director General of Moldsilva.
 
The research showed inhabitants were excessively using forest products, threatening natural growth forests. FLEG is now conducting three other studies on the topics of forest ecosystem services, forest and nature dependency among local communities, and economic losses from unsustainable practices.
 
The €9 million ENPI FLEG II programme deepens reforms in forestry policy, and legal and administrative matters in the sector while carrying out pilot projects, and addressing forest fire and climate issues. It builds upon the achievements of its predecessor, ENPI FLEG I programme.