Armenian Government to Replace Forestry Committee with Environmental Protection Agency

In a move towards strengthening environmental conservation efforts, the Armenian government has announced plans to establish a new Environmental Protection Agency, aiming to enhance forest and wildlife preservation across the country. The decision, approved at a recent Cabinet meeting, involves the replacement of the existing Forestry Committee and the consolidation of various environmental functions under the jurisdiction of the new agency.

Minister of Environment, Hakob Simidyan, emphasized the pressing need for more comprehensive forest patrols, stating, “We are now carrying out an 8-hour patrol in forests and national parks, but we need 24-hour patrols. These changes are aimed at this.” The proposed agency is expected to address this requirement by implementing round-the-clock monitoring and enforcement activities.

The Environmental Protection Agency will be endowed with extensive powers, enabling its officers to file legal proceedings, assess damages, impose fines, and use necessary force if violators refuse to comply with environmental regulations. This expanded authority is anticipated to act as a deterrent, discouraging illegal activities such as deforestation, wildlife poaching, and other environmental crimes.

One of the key objectives of the newly established agency is to centralize the environmental protection efforts currently dispersed across different bodies. By consolidating these functions under one umbrella, the government aims to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and ensure a more coordinated approach to environmental preservation.

The agency is set to comprise 1176 dedicated employees who will be strategically deployed to various regions of the country. These personnel will be equipped with the necessary tools and training to carry out their duties effectively, safeguarding Armenia’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.

Furthermore, the Environmental Protection Agency will be fully operational by the year 2024, signifying the government's commitment to expeditiously implement these vital changes. This development underscores Armenia's dedication to sustainable environmental practices, aligning the nation with international efforts to combat climate change and protect the planet's ecosystems.

Armenia's move to establish a specialized Environmental Protection Agency reflects a growing global awareness of the urgent need to preserve natural resources and mitigate the impact of human activities on the environment. As the nation prepares to usher in this new era of environmental protection, it sets an inspiring example for other countries striving to safeguard the Earth for future generations.