An audit report published by the Bulgarian National Audit Office (BNAO) covering 2021–2024 reveals significant deficiencies in the management of hazardous waste across Bulgaria. The audit identifies five regions—Blagoevgrad, Vidin, Gabrovo, Sliven, and Smolyan—that currently lack adequate facilities for disposing of hazardous waste generated by households, industry, and healthcare sectors. The BNAO report noted an increase in the volume of hazardous waste, rising from 13.7 tonnes in 2021 to nearly 16 tonnes in 2023.
Furthermore, the report highlighted comparative data, citing that Bulgaria generated 2,246 kg of hazardous waste per capita in 2022, substantially exceeding the EU average of 266 kg. Systemic weaknesses were also identified, including the absence of a parliamentary-approved national environmental strategy. The audit found that the National Waste Management Plan 2021-2028 does not sufficiently address industrial hazardous waste, a primary source of such materials.
Local enforcement remains a concern, with 42% of documented violations by mayors relating to illegal dumping sites. Moreover, nearly 29% of municipalities with populations exceeding 10,000 have not provided designated collection points for household hazardous waste. The audit also referenced nine infringement procedures launched by the European Commission concerning waste directives.
In conclusion, the BNAO stated that progress in hazardous waste management remains
Topics: #hazardous #waste #audit
