Hazardous waste management in the city of Glukhiv, Sumy region

Hazardous waste management in the city of Glukhiv, Sumy region is an important environmental task, since improper handling of toxic materials can lead to serious consequences for the environment. Every year, a significant amount of hazardous substances accumulates in the city, which requires effective collection, storage and further processing.

Hazardous waste management in Glukhiv is carried out in accordance with environmental standards. The city has specialized collection points for used batteries, mercury lamps and electronic components, but they do not cover all types of hazardous substances. Because of this, some toxic materials end up in general garbage containers, which poses a threat to environmental pollution.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises is a necessary measure to reduce the negative impact of industrial processes on nature. The city has enterprises in the woodworking, food and construction industries that generate significant amounts of toxic materials. In 2023, an inspection of 15 enterprises was conducted, during which violations were identified regarding the storage of chemicals and industrial waste.

Hazardous waste storage in Hlukhiv is carried out at specialized sites that meet environmental requirements. However, given the constant increase in the number of toxic materials, it is necessary to improve existing landfills and create new places for temporary storage of hazardous substances. The greatest threat is posed by agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and industrial lubricants, which can enter water sources.

Transportation of hazardous waste is carried out in accordance with national safety standards. In 2023, more than 33 tons of toxic substances were transported from Hlukhiv to specialized enterprises for further processing. Specialized vehicles with sealed containers are used for this, which prevents the leakage of hazardous materials during transportation.

Recycling of hazardous waste remains one of the priority areas of the city's environmental policy. There are no specialized enterprises for processing toxic materials in Hlukhiv, so most of the hazardous waste is exported to other regions. In 2023, more than 26 tons of batteries, electronic components, and chemical reagents were transferred for recycling. The authorities are considering attracting investors to create a local toxic substances recycling center.

Public awareness of hazardous waste management remains insufficient. According to surveys, only 43% of residents know about specialized collection points for hazardous materials. In 2023, 12 information events were held in Hlukhiv aimed at increasing the level of environmental responsibility of the population. However, to improve the situation, it is necessary to expand educational programs and increase the number of toxic waste collection points.

Local authorities, together with environmental organizations and international funds, are working to improve the hazardous waste management system. In 2023, the city received funding in the amount of 2 million hryvnias for the development of the infrastructure for the collection, transportation and processing of toxic materials. It is planned to modernize existing landfills and introduce mobile collection points for hazardous substances.

Preventing the illegal handling of hazardous waste remains an important task for the city. In 2023, 9 cases of illegal dumping of toxic materials in forest belts and industrial areas were recorded. To combat this phenomenon, the authorities plan to introduce a video surveillance system in problem areas and increase penalties for violators of environmental legislation.

An integrated approach to hazardous waste management allows Hlukhiv to gradually improve the environmental situation. The introduction of modern methods of collection, transportation, storage and processing of toxic materials contributes to reducing the level of pollution and protecting natural resources. However, to achieve sustainable results, it is necessary to expand environmental infrastructure, attract more investment, and strengthen control over compliance with environmental standards.