Romania surpasses afforestation targets with over 20,000 hectares planted

Romania has achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing its National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) afforestation target, with over 20,716 hectares of land now afforested and re-afforested. This accomplishment reflects a realization rate of more than 115% against the initial goal of 18,000 hectares.

The success of this initiative is backed by thorough verification from the Forest Guards, ensuring that all 20,716 hectares meet the required standards. Additionally, the completion of 13 hectares of urban forests has fully met the commitments set out in the PNRR.

In support of these efforts, 109 nurseries have been established, exceeding the PNRR target of 90 by 19 nurseries. These nurseries are crucial for providing the necessary seedlings to support ongoing and future reforestation projects.

With an allocation of approximately 307 million euros for the national afforestation campaign, significant investments have been aimed at local administrative units, individuals, legal entities, universities, and associations. This funding has supported the establishment of new forests, the reforestation of areas affected by disasters, urban forests, and protective forest belts.

The most extensive areas of afforestation have been recorded in Dolj County, with 3,116.7 hectares, followed by Constanța County with 2,275.2 hectares, Galați County with 1,547 hectares, and Botoșani County with 1,420 hectares. As interim Minister of the Environment, Waters, and Forests, Diana Buzoianu emphasizes the importance of these efforts in enhancing Romania's green spaces and environmental resilience.

Moreover, 50 million euros have been allocated specifically for the development of modern capacities for producing forest reproductive material, further bolstering the sustainability of these initiatives.