Romania Plans National Registry for Old Trees

Why this is here: The national catalog will include details on each tree’s species, estimated age, and dimensions, creating a publicly accessible record of Romania’s natural heritage.

Romania’s Ministry of Environment published draft rules to protect remarkable, centuries-old trees across the country. Minister Diana Buzoianu stated the initiative aims to safeguard the nation’s “living memory.” The proposed legislation creates a system for identifying trees notable for age, size, or cultural importance.

Individuals and organizations can submit tree registrations with photos and coordinates to local authorities. This information will populate a public digital catalog managed by the National Agency for Environment and Protected Areas. The catalog will detail species, age, dimensions, and condition of each tree.

The draft rules restrict tree removal to cases of complete drying, collapse, or immediate danger. Landowners hosting registered trees may receive state compensation if they agree to preserve them.

The rules are currently open for public consultation before adoption. The legislation does not specify funding for long-term monitoring or enforcement.