Logging of the Karelian taiga has resumed despite promises from the regional Ministry of Natural Resources to stop the destruction.

The taiga is being cut down by the Segezha Group company on the territory of the planned Maksimyarvi nature reserve. This fixed ecologists from the environmental organization "SPOK".

Segezha Pulp and Paper Mill produces eco-friendly paper bags from wood, while other enterprises within the holding produce lumber, plywood, and other products. Segezha Group describes itself as "one of the largest forest users in the world" and employs "environmentally friendly technologies."

The logging was stopped early in the year when activists began filing complaints with the prosecutor's office. According to preliminary data, more than 300 hectares of valuable forests had been destroyed by that time, and while the investigation was ongoing, another 200 hectares had been destroyed. The Ministry of Natural Resources then announced suspension But the residents of Karelia's joy was short-lived—logging resumed.

Data analysis and field inspections by ecologists revealed that at least five animal habitats and 29 sites where plants and mushrooms listed in the Red Data Books of Russia and Karelia grew were damaged or destroyed within the planned reserve. Areas where evidence of the presence of the forest reindeer, recently listed in the Red Data Book of Russia as an endangered species, were also damaged.

The planned nature reserve is home to 72 species of animals and plants listed in the Red Books. Segezha Group is cutting down trees that are 200-300 years old, according to environmental experts. SPOK has again appealed to the Prosecutor General's Office.

Photo: "SPOK", Telegram channel Karelia and I