Illegal landfilling of organic and plastic waste, dumping of untreated wastewater and animal waste in rivers, as well as pollution from recreational activities are environmental issues monitored by the organizations implementing the Cleaner Rivers - Cleaner Seas (CRoCuS) project. They propose several measures to prevent pollution through recycling and reuse, applying cost-effective and climate-friendly solutions.

Elena Zubcov, president of the Moldovan Society of Ecotoxicologists, mentioned during a press conference that ECOTOX was created in 1998. It brings together scientists engaged in research and innovation related to toxic substances, environmental pollution, aquatic ecosystems, their sustainable use and monitoring. “The main aspect of the project is related to monitoring the state of aquatic ecosystems, pollution prevention, monitoring methods and the general situation in the Prut river basin”, said Elena Zubcov, who is also a corresponding member of the Academy of Sciences.

Unauthorized landfills pollute the soil, the groundwater and surface water layers. Research has shown that, even after the landfill was liquidated and the site cleaned up, the soil and groundwater in the area is still highly polluted. “This has led to nitrates being found in these areas, usually in groundwater. It happens in our villages. 70% of the water in the wells is polluted with nitrates”, says the researcher.

An important aspect of the project is raising public awareness. Several brochures have been published, as well as a guide in several languages ​​on good practices in preventing environmental pollution.

The CRoCuS project is implemented by the Earth Forever Foundation (Bulgaria), the WiSDOM Public Association and the Ecotox Public Association (Republic of Moldova), Mama-86 Nova Kahovka (Ukraine) and Oancea City Hall (Romania) and is funded by the European Union through the European Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument within the Joint Operational Programme Black Sea Basin 2014-2020.