Environmental groups warn against weakening protection of Starina reservoir in Poloniny region

Environmental organizations are raising concerns about the Slovak government's plans to significantly reduce nature protection measures in the Poloniny region, particularly around the Starina reservoir. The proposed changes to protected area zoning are being criticized by conservationists as potentially harmful concessions that could legitimize illegal construction. The Poloniny National Park, located in eastern Slovakia near the borders with Poland and Ukraine, is part of the East Carpathian Biosphere Reserve and contains some of Europe's last remaining primeval beech forests. Environmental groups argue that weakening protection standards could set a dangerous precedent for other protected areas across the country and threaten the ecological integrity of this UNESCO World Heritage site.