World Bank provides grant worth 7.9 million dollars for restoration of ecosystems from Moldova

The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors on October 22 approved a 7.9-million-dollars grant for the Ecosystems Restoration for Marine Pollution Prevention project (RE-MAP). This project will be funded through the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The RE-MAP project aims to increase the area with sustainable management practices in the Dniester River basin, a critical ecologically and socio-economically watershed in Moldova. Through nature-based solutions, RE-MAP will restore degraded landscapes, prevent land-based pollution and enhance biodiversity and resilience to climate change.

"This project marks a significant step towards Moldova's sustainable development goals and its commitment to regional environmental cooperation," said the World Bank Group's Country Manager for Moldova, Ulrich Schmitt.

The key components of the project include:

• Restoration of forests and wetlands, afforestation and creation of integrated crop-livestock-forestry systems.

• Harmonization of policies for pollution prevention and sustainable land use.

• Building the capacity of institutions and communities to implement and monitor restoration efforts.

• Socio-economic benefits for approximately 99,200 people, including 40% women, through improved natural resource conditions and employment opportunities.

The project is part of the broader Clean and Healthy Ocean Integrated programme, contributing to regional efforts to tackle marine pollution and land degradation. The RE-MAP project represents a critical step for Moldova in restoring natural landscapes, protecting water resources and strengthening resilience for communities and the environment.

Since Moldova's accession to the World Bank in 1992, over 2.3 billion dollars has been allocated for more than 70 operations in the country.

Presently, the World Bank's areas of support include a comprehensive programme in the energy sector, support for regulatory reform and business development, investments in land registration and evaluation, education, roads and health and social sectors, as well as agriculture, water and sanitation.