Reforming waste management: European rules for landfill operation are being implemented in Ukraine

Reforming waste management: European rules for landfill operation are being established in Ukraine.

What should landfills in Ukraine be like to maintain environmental safety? How to operate and remediate such facilities? The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, in collaboration with international experts, has outlined all the requirements in a draft order, in accordance with new legislation and European standards. It is crucial that the rules are clear for everyone who needs to comply with them in the country. Therefore, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources held a second round of discussions with market participants.

Key issues discussed at the meeting include which landfills will be subject to this regulation, the procedure for testing waste that is not considered hazardous and is accepted by landfills, creating lists of inert waste that can be buried without testing for compliance with acceptability criteria, waste record-keeping at landfills, and more.

"The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources is open to dialogue and is considering all comments and suggestions from participants. We share a common goal - to ensure that the established rules are not just 'on paper' but work in practice in Ukraine. Together with experts, we are ready to provide all the necessary explanations. The draft order will be refined and republished for discussion. Therefore, all stakeholders can participate in implementing quality changes in the country," emphasized Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Ukraine, Victoria Kyreyeva.

It's worth noting that the developed Rules will only apply to facilities that accept solid bulk waste. For other types of waste, such as tailings, sludge, and slag, different regulations will apply.

"The reform will affect the entire waste management system step by step. We are developing the necessary regulatory framework for regulating each type of activity. For example, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, in collaboration with experts, is finalizing the draft Law 'On Waste of the Mining Industry.' We are also preparing the necessary subordinate acts. Soon, the bill will be published for discussion. It is important for us to hear the opinions of everyone who will work under the new rules to eliminate risks and gaps from the very beginning. Therefore, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources invites everyone to work together," said Victoria Kyreyeva.

According to the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Ukraine.