Hazardous waste management in Ternopil

Hazardous waste management in Ternopil is one of the important tasks of local environmental policy. A large number of industrial enterprises, medical institutions and transport companies contribute to the formation of a significant amount of toxic materials that require proper treatment. The level of environmental pollution and the safety of residents depend on the efficiency of collection, storage and processing of these substances.

Hazardous waste management includes a set of measures aimed at reducing their negative impact. Ternopil has specialized collection points for batteries, mercury lamps and electronic equipment. However, some toxic substances, in particular agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and industrial reagents, still end up in general waste bins, which poses a threat to soil and water pollution.

Environmental maintenance of enterprises plays a key role in minimizing the negative impact of industrial activities on the environment. Enterprises in the machine-building, chemical and food industries generate a significant amount of hazardous waste that requires careful control. In 2023, 18 environmental inspections were conducted at local production facilities, during which violations were identified in the field of storage and transportation of toxic materials.

Hazardous waste in Ternopil is stored at specially equipped landfills that meet environmental standards. However, the available capacity is limited, which creates the need to expand the infrastructure for the temporary placement of toxic materials. The greatest risk is posed by chemical compounds, industrial lubricants and medical waste, which can penetrate aquifers and harm the environment.

Transportation of hazardous waste from Ternopil is regulated by national and international standards. In 2023, more than 35 tons of toxic substances were transported to specialized enterprises engaged in their further processing. The use of sealed containers and certified transport ensures safe movement of waste without the risk of environmental pollution.

Recycling of hazardous waste is an important step in reducing the level of pollution. There are no large enterprises specializing in the processing of toxic materials in Ternopil, so most of the waste is transported to other regions. In 2023, more than 25 tons of batteries, electronic components and industrial reagents were transferred for recycling. The city authorities are considering the possibility of creating a specialized enterprise for the processing of hazardous waste, which will reduce transportation costs and improve the environmental situation.

Public awareness of the problem of hazardous waste management remains insufficient. According to research results, only 43% of residents know about specialized collection points for toxic materials. In 2023, 12 information events were held aimed at raising the level of environmental awareness of the population. To effectively solve the problem, it is necessary to expand educational programs and involve public organizations.

Local authorities, together with environmental services 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 to modernize the infrastructure for the collection and transportation of toxic materials. It is planned to create mobile collection points for hazardous substances and improve the environmental control system.

Preventing illegal handling of hazardous waste is one of the priority areas of activity of local environmental services. In 2023, 11 cases of illegal dumping of toxic materials in forest belts and on the outskirts of the city were recorded. To combat this phenomenon, the authorities plan to introduce a video surveillance system and strengthen penalties for violators of environmental legislation.

An integrated approach to hazardous waste management allows Ternopil 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 further improve this area, it is necessary to expand environmental infrastructure, attract more investment in waste processing, and strengthen control over compliance with environmental standards.