Environment Ministers of Romania, Moldova in Bucharest discuss cooperation for recycling, forests' protection, reducing food waste

Minister of Environment of Moldova Sergiu Lazarencu today had a working meeting in Bucharest with his Romanian counterpart, Diana Buzoianu, Minister of Environment, Waters, and Forests. The discussions focused on exchanging best practices and strengthening bilateral cooperation in the environmental protection field.

One of the main topics addressed was the Deposit Return System (DRS), already implemented in Romania. This system involves returning empty beverage containers—plastic bottles, glass, or aluminum cans—directly to stores, where consumers receive back the deposit paid at purchase. In the first six months of 2025, Romania achieved a remarkable 79-per cent collection rate, which prevents the accumulation of millions of tons of plastic on landfills. Moldova is set to implement this system starting from 2027, benefiting from Romania's experience and expertise to adapt the mechanism to local specifics.

Another subject on the agenda was the National Forest Inventory (NFI)—a scientific tool through which Romania periodically monitors the forests’ state, wood volume, afforested area and carbon storage level. The ministers agreed that Romanian specialists will provide Moldova with support in carrying out the first national forest inventory, considered essential for responsible environmental policies and forest fund’s protection.

The visit's agenda included a visit to the Food Bank of Romania, an institution that collects food products still within the consumption period, but which can no longer be sold due to damaged packaging, short expiration date, or overstocks. These products are subsequently distributed to social centers and canteens for vulnerable people.

Moldova already has a Food Bank and a legislative framework for reducing food waste, but the authorities consider the active involvement of producers and retailers a priority, so that more products reach those in need instead of being wasted.

“Romania's experience provides us with a solid model to build modern and functional systems for recycling, forests’ protection and combating food waste. Together, we can implement green policies that bring direct benefits to citizens and the environment,” concluded Sergiu Lazarencu.