Environmental crimes and enforcement in the Dominican RepublicCEFR A2
17 Nov 2025
Adapted from Carolina Pichardo, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Aldward Castillo, Unsplash
The Judicial Branch and several state bodies now work together to investigate and prosecute violations of Law 64-00. Article 175 defines offences such as cutting trees in protected areas, hunting protected species, using explosives or poisons, and pouring toxic substances into water or air.
SENPA reported activity from 2020 to mid-2025. Authorities listed 9,350 crimes for tree felling and 2,620 for makeshift dumps and water pollution. They seized 63,613 units of sand, 16,449 sacks of coal and 416,087 pieces of wood. In early 2025 officials seized 647 pounds of parrotfish and 40 pounds of other fish.
Green Line lets citizens report by app, phone, WhatsApp or in person. Initial site visits normally take 10–15 business days and reporters may remain anonymous.
Difficult words
- environment — The natural world around us.environmental
- crime — An act that breaks the law.crimes
- tree — A tall plant with a trunk and branches.trees
- water — A clear liquid essential for life.
- pollute — To make something dirty or harmful.polluting
- report — To give information about something.
- resource — Materials or supplies used for help.resources
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can people contribute to protecting the environment?
- What role do apps play in reporting crimes?
- Why is it important to report environmental violations?
Related articles
How mangroves survive saltwater
Scientists studied mangrove trees to learn why some plants tolerate repeated saltwater flooding. They found small cells and thicker cell walls help mangroves stay strong in salty, waterlogged conditions and suggest this could help make crops more salt-tolerant.
Fishermen, trawlers and new local committees in Douala-Edea
Local fishing communities around Douala-Edea National Park face violent attacks and illegal fishing that damage mangroves and reduce fish. New local collaborative management committees were installed to help monitor and protect resources.
Protests in Madagascar over power cuts and water shortages
In September 2025 protesters in Antananarivo and other regions demonstrated against frequent electricity and water outages. Clashes, looting and a curfew followed; authorities dismissed the Energy Minister but many demands remained unmet.
