Hazardous Waste Management in Sumy

Hazardous waste management in Sumy is one of the key environmental challenges of the region. A large number of industrial enterprises, transport companies and medical institutions contribute to the accumulation of toxic materials that require control. To prevent environmental threats, it is important to implement modern methods of collection, processing and storage of such waste.

Hazardous waste management includes careful control over their collection, sorting and further processing. Sumy has specialized collection points for used batteries, mercury lamps and electronic components. However, their number remains insufficient, which leads to uncontrolled dumping of toxic materials into general waste containers.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises plays an important role in reducing pollution levels. The city is home to enterprises of the mechanical engineering, chemical, food and pharmaceutical industries that generate large volumes of harmful substances. In 2023, 22 environmental inspections were conducted, during which violations were identified in the storage processes of waste chemicals and technical fluids.

Hazardous waste in Sumy is stored at specially equipped landfills and sites. However, given the increase in the number of toxic substances, there is a need to create new facilities for their temporary placement. The greatest threat is posed by agrochemicals, petroleum products and pharmaceutical waste, which can penetrate groundwater and harm the environment.

Transportation of hazardous waste from Sumy is carried out by specialized companies using certified vehicles. In 2023, more than 50 tons of toxic substances were transported from the city to specialized enterprises for further processing. Compliance with transportation rules is an important element of reducing environmental risks, therefore all cargo is transported in sealed containers that prevent the leakage of harmful substances.

Recycling hazardous waste is necessary to minimize its impact on the environment. Due to the lack of specialized enterprises in Sumy, most toxic materials are transported to other regions. In 2023, more than 34 tons of batteries, electronic components, and chemical reagents were transferred for recycling. The city authorities are considering the possibility of creating a local enterprise for the processing of hazardous substances.

Public awareness of environmental issues remains insufficient. Only 48% of residents know about specialized collection points for toxic materials. In 2023, 16 information events were held in Sumy to increase the environmental responsibility of the population. To effectively solve the problem, it is necessary to expand the network of hazardous waste collection points and conduct regular educational programs.

Local authorities are working to improve the hazardous waste management system in cooperation with environmental services and international organizations. In 2023, the city received 2.7 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 update the environmental monitoring system.

Preventing illegal handling of hazardous waste remains an important task for the city's environmental services. In 2023, 13 cases of illegal dumping of toxic materials in forest belts and industrial facilities were recorded. The authorities plan to install video surveillance systems in critical areas, as well as increase penalties for violators of environmental legislation.

An integrated approach to hazardous waste management allows Sumy to improve the environmental situation. The introduction of modern methods of collection, transportation, storage and processing of toxic materials helps reduce pollution and protect natural resources. However, to achieve long-term results, it is necessary to expand the environmental infrastructure, attract more investment and improve the system for monitoring compliance with environmental standards.