The contribution of the Commission for nature protection of the Academy of Sciences of the MSSR (1957–1980) to the establishment of the environmental protection system in the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

The article analyzes the context of creation and activity of the Commission for Nature Protection of the Academy of Sciences of the MSSR during the years 1957–1980. Being initially authorized to coordinate scientific research in the field and to identify natural objects to be taken under the state protection, it had a much wider spectrum of activities that laid down the basis of the environmental protection system in the country. These activities included not only drafting of the Law on Nature Protection and the Government Decisions on establishment of the State Committee in this field, but also initiation of the network creation of state protected areas and nature monuments, along with preparation of the relevant regulations and of the Red Book. The Commission has also contributed to the protection and expansion of forests, soil conservation and water protection, as well as to the constant promotion of environmental awareness. As a result, the Commission has been instrumental in establishing an environmental management system in the republic that currently broadly meets international standards. Its achievements form the basis for the further development of the environmental protection system in the republic.