Hazardous waste management in the city of Shostka, Sumy region

Hazardous waste management in the city of Shostka, Sumy region is an important component of the region's environmental safety. A large number of industrial enterprises operating in the chemical, pharmaceutical and mechanical engineering sectors contribute to the formation of significant volumes of toxic materials. To prevent their negative impact, it is necessary to effectively control all stages of collection, transportation and processing.

Hazardous waste management in Shostka is carried out in accordance with environmental standards, but requires further improvement. Currently, the city has specialized collection points for batteries, mercury lamps and electronic devices, but they do not cover all areas. Some toxic substances continue to end up in general waste, which poses a threat to soil and water resources.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises is an important part of industrial waste control. Chemical and food industry enterprises operate in Shostka, which generate significant volumes of harmful substances. In 2023, 18 inspections were conducted, during which cases of improper storage of toxic materials and violations of hazardous substance handling standards were identified.

Hazardous waste storage in the city is carried out at specially equipped sites, however, due to the limited capabilities of such facilities, there is a need to expand them. The greatest threat is posed by agrochemicals, industrial slags and medical waste, which can penetrate aquifers, contaminating drinking water sources.

Transportation of hazardous waste from Shostka is carried out by certified companies that have the necessary equipment for the transportation of toxic substances. In 2023, more than 40 tons of hazardous waste were transported from the city to specialized enterprises in other regions. The use of modern transport and special containers prevents the spread of harmful substances during transportation.

Recycling of hazardous waste is one of the key aspects of the city's environmental strategy. There are no specialized enterprises for processing toxic materials in Shostka, so most of the waste is exported to other regions. In 2023, more than 30 tons of batteries, electronic components, and chemical reagents were transferred for recycling. The authorities are considering the possibility of creating a local plant for the processing of hazardous substances.

Public awareness of environmental issues remains insufficient. Only 44% of residents know about specialized collection points for hazardous materials. In 2023, 14 information events were held in Shostka aimed at raising the environmental awareness of the population. However, to effectively solve the problem, it is necessary to expand educational programs and increase the number of hazardous waste collection points.

Local authorities cooperate with environmental organizations and international funds to improve the hazardous waste management system. In 2023, the city received funding in the amount of 2.3 million hryvnias for the modernization of the infrastructure for the collection, transportation, and processing of toxic materials. It is planned to create mobile collection points and modernize existing environmental landfills.

Preventing illegal handling of hazardous waste is one of the main tasks for the city's environmental services. In 2023, 11 cases of illegal dumping of toxic materials in forest areas and on the outskirts of the city were recorded. To combat this phenomenon, it is planned to install video surveillance in critical areas and increase penalties for violators of environmental legislation.

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