Hazardous waste management in the city of Izyum, Kharkiv region

Hazardous waste management in the city of Izyum, Kharkiv region is one of the key environmental challenges, as the city has industrial enterprises, transport infrastructure and a significant construction sector. A large number of hazardous substances generated in the process of production and domestic activities require effective collection, storage and processing to prevent negative impacts on the environment and health of residents.

Hazardous waste management in Izyum involves a number of measures aimed at minimizing environmental risks. The city has special collection points where the population can hand in batteries, used accumulators, fluorescent lamps and other toxic materials. However, the level of public awareness remains insufficient, which contributes to cases of improper disposal of hazardous substances.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises plays an important role in reducing the impact of industrial waste on the environment. In 2023, more than 20 inspections were carried out in Izyum at enterprises of various industries, including mechanical engineering, woodworking and food industry. Most of them require modernization of hazardous waste management systems, introduction of environmentally friendly technologies and improvement of control over their storage.

Hazardous waste is stored at special sites that have appropriate permits and technical equipment. However, due to the growth in the volume of hazardous substances, in particular industrial sludge and residues of chemical reagents, existing facilities are beginning to operate at the limit of their capabilities. This creates additional risks for the environment and requires the expansion of infrastructure for the safe accumulation of such waste.

Transportation of hazardous waste in the city of Izyum is regulated in accordance with current legislation and international standards. In 2023, more than 60 tons of toxic materials were transported from the city to specialized enterprises that are engaged in their further processing. The use of sealed containers and certified vehicles prevents spills and leaks of hazardous substances during transportation.

Recycling of hazardous waste in the region is one of the priority areas of environmental policy. There are specialized enterprises in the Kharkiv region that accept batteries, electronic components and chemicals for secondary processing. In 2023, Izyum transferred more than 25 tons of hazardous waste for recycling, but this is not enough to solve the problem comprehensively. It is planned to expand capacity and attract investors to create modern environmentally friendly enterprises.

Public initiatives and environmental education play an important role in forming a culture of responsible management of hazardous waste. Over the past year, more than 15 information campaigns dedicated to the city's environmental problems have been held in Izyum. At the same time, sociological research shows that only 38% of residents know where to safely dispose of toxic materials.

Local authorities are actively cooperating with environmental organizations and international funds to improve the hazardous waste management system. In 2023, Izyum received funding of 1.8 million hryvnias to improve the infrastructure for the collection and transportation of toxic materials. This will allow the introduction of mobile collection points and strengthen control over environmental standards at local enterprises.

Preventing illegal handling of hazardous waste is one of the main tasks for the city. In 2023, 14 cases of illegal dumping of toxic substances in places not designated for this were recorded. To combat this phenomenon, the authorities plan to strengthen control over compliance with environmental standards, introduce electronic monitoring and install a video surveillance system in problem areas.

An integrated approach to hazardous waste management in Izyum allows to improve the environmental situation and reduce the level of pollution. The introduction of modern technologies for the collection, transportation, storage and processing of toxic materials contributes to the preservation of natural resources and the protection of public health. However, for the further development of this area, it is necessary to increase the number of specialized enterprises, expand the network of collection points, and strengthen control over industrial waste.