Polesie State Radioecological Reserve,
Belarus

Created in 1988 to enclose the territory of Belarus most affected by radioactive fallout from the Chernobyl disaster, the reserve adjoins the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone in Ukraine. Originally covering an area of approximately 1,313 km2, it was extended in 1993 to 2162 km2, making it one of the largest ‘nature’ reserves in Europe.
22,000 people in 96 settlements were evacuated from the region due to the disaster. Food cultivation and forestry in the area continue to be overseen by a government body to ensure their safety.

Approx area depicted: 3900 km2
Date of image: 2020