Hazardous waste management in the city of Lebedyn, Sumy region

Hazardous waste management in the city of Lebedyn, Sumy region is one of the key environmental tasks that requires a systematic approach. As a result of the activities of industrial enterprises, medical institutions and agriculture, a significant amount of toxic materials is formed, which must be controlled. Improper handling of these substances can lead to environmental pollution and negatively affect public health.

Hazardous waste management in Lebedyn is carried out in accordance with current environmental standards. The city has collection points for batteries, fluorescent lamps and electronic components, but their number remains insufficient. Because of this, some hazardous substances end up in general waste containers, which poses a threat to water resources and soils.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises in Lebedyn involves monitoring industrial processes and controlling emissions of harmful substances. The city is home to mechanical engineering, woodworking, and food industries that generate significant amounts of toxic waste. In 2023, 14 inspections were conducted, during which violations were identified in the storage of chemicals and waste oils.

Hazardous waste is stored in the city at special sites that comply with environmental standards. However, due to the limited number of places for temporary storage, there is a need to create new landfills or expand existing ones. The greatest danger is posed by pesticide residues, pharmaceuticals, and industrial sludge that can penetrate the soil and groundwater.

Transportation of hazardous waste is carried out by certified companies that have the necessary equipment for transporting toxic materials. In 2023, more than 30 tons of hazardous substances were transported from Lebedyn to specialized enterprises for further processing. The use of sealed containers and reliable transport prevents the leakage of harmful substances into the environment.

Hazardous waste recycling is an important component of the city's environmental strategy. Due to the lack of its own specialized enterprises, most hazardous waste is transported for processing to other regions. In 2023, more than 25 tons of electronic components, batteries, and chemical reagents were transferred for recycling. The Lebedyn authorities plan to attract investors to create a local toxic materials recycling center.

Public awareness of the need for proper hazardous waste management remains at an insufficient level. Only 42% of residents know about specialized toxic materials collection points. In 2023, 11 information events were held in Lebedyn aimed at increasing the environmental responsibility of the population. However, to achieve tangible results, it is necessary to intensify educational programs and expand the hazardous waste collection network.

Local authorities are working to improve the hazardous waste management system in cooperation with environmental organizations and international funds. 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 introduce mobile collection points and modernize existing environmental landfills.

Preventing illegal handling of hazardous waste remains an important task for the city's environmental services. In 2023, 10 cases of illegal dumping of toxic materials in forest areas and abandoned industrial facilities were recorded. To combat this phenomenon, it is planned to install a video surveillance system and increase fines for violators of environmental legislation.

An integrated approach to hazardous waste management contributes to the gradual improvement of the environmental situation in Lebedyn. The introduction of modern methods of collection, transportation, storage and processing of toxic materials allows reducing the level of environmental pollution and protecting natural resources. However, to further improve this area, it is necessary to expand infrastructure, attract more investment, and increase the level of control over compliance with environmental standards.