Forest Festival offers kids eco-learning and fun
The presidential residence in Condrița welcomed visitors for the second consecutive year for the Forest Festival. Children explored the fascinating world of nature with the aid of microscopes and took part in interactive workshops. The event was organized by local authorities to support an ambitious goal: planting 145,000 hectares of forest by 2030.
In a stunning landscape, visitors had the chance to uncover some of the forest's secrets, and many brought their children along.
"There were many new things that we learned, but experiencing them firsthand was incredible. For example, we saw a hemp wall covered in lime. I also showed my children how we dealt with a wood bug problem after my husband made a rustic-style bed."
"I participated in a contest and won! It is organized by a non-governmental organization, and everyone is eager to share knowledge. I’m excited to say that, for the first time, I saw a tick under a microscope."
"I was invited and happily accepted. I'm glad to be here. I'm from Odessa, and I find nature to be phenomenal; the landscape and atmosphere are beautiful."
An interactive exhibition, guided workshops, educational activities, and a fair featuring ecological products were held at the State Residence in Condrița. Specialists from the Institute of Genetics, Physiology and Plant Protection showcased a dress made entirely from plants.
“This dress is made from plants that grow in forests, such as ivy and hornbeam. The skirt is also crafted from forest plants. It demonstrates that elements of nature can be utilized in a beautiful and productive way,” explained Larisa Andronic from the institute.
The Inspectorate for Environmental Protection displayed technical equipment used to combat poaching and other environmental violations. Meanwhile, Moldsilva presented various wooden items.
“This year, we have drones, computers, binoculars, and vehicles. Thanks to the media coverage of the Inspectorate for Environmental Protection's equipment, we have recently seen a significant decrease in illegal logging and poaching,” said Ion Botnariuc, head of the department at IPM.
Sergiu Barițchi, a representative of Moldsilva, added, “We have wooden carts, windmills, fountains, and other decorative items like baskets.”
The Forest Festival is part of the National Afforestation Program, which was launched in 2023 under the leadership of President Maia Sandu. The program aims to plant trees across 145,000 hectares over the next ten years, with collaboration from state institutions, non-governmental organizations, and citizens.
Grigore Stratulat, State Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, emphasizes, "We have secured financial resources and received support from the World Bank and the European Investment Bank to ensure the successful completion of this program, making forestry a sustainable sector."
So far, 18,000 hectares have been afforested through the National Afforestation Program.
