Russia’s proposed code for forests and timber has been dismissed as an opportunity for factional interests to monopolise the country’s natural resources.

The code, which is due soon to go before the Duma, was criticised for lacking state control and now ecologists and government officials have attacked the auctioning of 99-year land leases.

Deputy head of the Duma natural resources committee Alexander Belyakov said: “Only a few people in Russia will have the money to buy the renting rights (estimated at £68/ha).” He said this would leave forests open to misuse.

&#8220Only a few people in Russia will have the money to buy forestry renting rights”

Alexander Belyakov, deputy head of the Duma natural resources committee

Russia has the largest woodland resources in the world, according to official figures. However, after felling only 20% of trees are processed due in part to lack of investment in timber processing and ambiguity over forest ownership.