Hazardous waste management in the city of Lubny, Poltava region

Effective management of hazardous waste in the city of Lubny, Poltava region is one of the main environmental tasks of local authorities. As a result of the activities of industrial enterprises, medical institutions and the transport sector, significant amounts of toxic materials accumulate in the city every year, which require strict control. The introduction of modern methods of collection, transportation and processing of such waste helps to minimize their impact on the environment.

Hazardous waste management in Lubny includes their collection, sorting, temporary storage and further processing. The city has special collection points for batteries, mercury lamps and waste electronics, but their number remains insufficient. Some hazardous materials end up in general containers, which causes environmental pollution and poses risks to public health.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises is aimed at complying with environmental standards and minimizing harmful impacts on nature. The main sources of toxic waste in the city are agricultural production, the food industry and the transport sector. In 2023, 11 inspections were conducted, during which violations of the rules for handling hazardous substances were recorded.

Hazardous waste storage in Lubny is carried out at specially equipped landfills that meet environmental requirements. However, the existing capacities do not cover the needs of the city, which forces us to look for alternative solutions. The greatest threat is posed by residues of chemicals, agrochemicals and industrial oils, which can negatively affect groundwater and soil.

Transportation of hazardous waste is carried out by specialized companies that have the appropriate certificates. In 2023, more than 32 tons of toxic materials were transported from Lubny to specialized enterprises. Compliance with transportation standards helps prevent accidents and avoid environmental pollution during transportation.

Recycling of hazardous waste remains an important direction of the city's environmental policy. Due to the lack of its own enterprises, most toxic materials are transported to other regions. In 2023, more than 20 tons of batteries, industrial lubricants and chemical reagents were transferred from Lubny for processing. Local authorities are considering the possibility of creating their own hazardous waste processing center.

The level of awareness of residents about the environmental risks of hazardous waste management remains insufficient. Only 42% of residents are aware of the existence of special collection points for toxic materials. In 2023, 9 environmental events were held in Lubny aimed at raising public awareness of the dangers of toxic waste.

Local authorities are actively cooperating with environmental organizations and state services to improve the hazardous waste management system. In 2023, the city received 1.7 million hryvnias for the development of the infrastructure for the collection, transportation and processing of toxic materials. It is planned to create mobile collection points and introduce modern methods of environmental monitoring.

Preventing illegal handling of hazardous waste is one of the main priorities of the city authorities. In 2023, 6 cases of illegal dumping of toxic materials at industrial facilities and in natural areas were recorded. To combat this phenomenon, it is planned to install video surveillance and increase penalties for violators of environmental legislation.

An integrated approach to hazardous waste management allows Lubny to improve the environmental situation and reduce the level of environmental pollution. The introduction of modern technologies for the collection, transportation, storage and processing of toxic materials is the key to the city's environmental safety. For the further development of this area, it is necessary to continue investing in environmental infrastructure and increase control over compliance with environmental standards.