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Romania's Forests Under Threat: Illegal Logging Exposed
9 Mar
Summary
- Company cut 14 unmarked trees outside permit boundaries.
- Illegal logging threatens old-growth forests and habitats.
- Damages are estimated at $2,320 for stolen wood.
An investigation in Romania has uncovered evidence of illegal logging, with a company felling 14 unmarked trees outside its authorized timber permit near Băile Felix in January 2026. The estimated damages for the approximately 8 cubic meters of wood, including cherry, hornbeam, and oak, amount to 10,000 Romanian Leu ($2,320). This incident underscores the persistent issue of illegal logging that continues to threaten Romania's old-growth forests, which are among the last in Europe.
Such unregulated felling critically weakens the forests' capacity for carbon storage and rainwater management, while also disrupting essential habitats for diverse wildlife. The European Union has implemented new regulations to combat deforestation, and NGOs are advocating for stricter penalties, as current fines are considered insufficient to deter illegal activities. Efforts are underway to ensure wood products are sourced legally and to protect these vital ecosystems.
