The Road Traffic Safety Council think tank (hereinafter – the Think Tank), organised by the Ministry of Transport, discussed potential solutions to prevent environmental damage caused by driving motor vehicles in forests, dune areas and protected natural territories.

In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in the uncontrolled movement of motorcyclists and drivers in both the Pierīga region and other forests, which in many cases has resulted not only in chaotic damage to the forest floor but also the driving over of individual natural and cultural-historical objects, as well as forest fires. Participants in the Think Tank discussed the situation in protected nature parks, dune and coastal areas, as well as in state and private forests. The mechanical transport vehicles recorded in these violations include motorcycles, quad bikes and cars, all of which were in the aforementioned areas for recreational purposes.

The participants in the discussion were unanimous that driving through natural areas with mechanical transport vehicles is a serious problem and a signal that vehicle drivers lack an understanding of the importance of the ecosystem in maintaining public health.

As one solution, the discussion participants recommended information campaigns to explain to the public the damage caused by driving through forests, dunes and protected areas, while simultaneously explaining the reasons why these areas are protected. Motorcycling communities and vehicle rental companies should also be involved in this informative and explanatory work. Furthermore, the Think Tank participants agreed that all transport vehicles must be identifiable and equipped with registration and number plates to reduce the sense of impunity among offenders. The Think Tank participants agreed that raids and the use of drones are the most effective ways to combat offenders. Meanwhile, the creation of specially designated tracks is a good solution to offer to motorcyclists and quad bike riders. (...)
Photograph by Bendzhamin Everett used