We will make a decision: Ministry of Environment may restrict use of pyrotechnic article
The Ministry of Environment is considering restrictions on fireworks, firecrackers, and other pyrotechnic products due to concerns about their health, animal, and environmental effects.
The announcement was made by the Minister of the Environment, Gheorghe Hajder, prior to the government meeting on December 3. This follows requests from the Ombudsman, Ceslav Panico, and the Ombudsman for Children's Rights, Vasile Coroi, urging authorities to take decisive action, inspired by several European cities that have completely banned pyrotechnic displays.
Hajder stated that his ministry is currently reviewing the proposal and preparing a draft regulation on the matter.
"The Ministry of the Environment does not recommend the use of fireworks, as their effects significantly harm natural resources and biodiversity. The project must be discussed with all stakeholders to identify an appropriate solution," the minister said.
The authorities are considering various options to mitigate these risks: "We need to establish a regulatory framework, and then the project must go through consultations to determine the best solutions for protecting the environment."
Although the process is still in its early stages, informal discussions on the project have already begun, according to the source.
"We are having informal discussions, but we need to document the project before it goes into consultation—this is the most crucial step," Hajder explained.
When asked if the new measures could be finalized before the winter holidays, the minister emphasized that the current recommendation is clear: "We are advising against the use of these substances for the reasons mentioned, but we aim to find a solution that does not overly impact economic stakeholders while also protecting the environment, potentially through compensatory measures." He also indicated that the ministry is analyzing practices from other European countries.
"The approach varies from country to country. We will assess these models and determine what is best for the Republic of Moldova in this regard," the minister stated.
Regarding the possibility of a complete ban on the sale of pyrotechnic products, Hajder mentioned that this remains an open option for now.
"Following the discussions we will have, we will make a decision on this matter," concluded the Minister of the Environment.
