Around 500 ha of pastureland were rehabilitated and 150 ha of eroded and unproductive land were afforested in the Orhei National Park region within the European Union funded Clima East Project, implemented by the UNDP. The results of the project were presented today, April 4, at a closing workshop in Orhei, IPN reports.

According to a press release of UNDP, as a result of the measures taken to prevent soil erosion, the average productivity of pastures rose about 2,5 times, from 2,04 t hay/ha (2014) to 4,59 t/ha, while the indicator of carbon accumulation has improved by over 200%.

18 communities part of Orhei National Park developed, with project’s support, Forest Management Plans covering over 1,400 ha of communal forests, as well as Pasture Management Plans covering 5,000 ha of pastureland. These plans ensure sustainable management of natural resources for the period of 10 years.

Stefan Liller, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, said the Clima East Project is expected to generate multiple environmental, social and economic benefits in terms of reduced deterioration of natural resources, enhanced carbon sequestration, a decrease in Green House Gas emissions, and improved local pasture and forestry resources.

Clima East, implemented during 2013-2016, is a regional project package, financed by the European Union, which aims to offer assistance to the countries from the Eastern Partnership and Russian Federation, in dealing with mitigating and adapting to climate change. The budget of the Clima East Project was €535,000.