A recent audit by the Bulgarian National Audit Office (BNAO) highlighted significant deficiencies in the management of hazardous waste across Bulgaria, identifying five regions—Blagoevgrad, Vidin, Gabrovo, Sliven, and Smolyan—that lack proper disposal facilities for household, industrial, and healthcare waste. The comprehensive audit report, covering 2021–2024, reviewed the Ministry of Environment and Water’s performance. While the volume of hazardous waste increased from 13.7 tonnes in 2021 to nearly 16 tonnes in 2023, the report noted systemic weaknesses.
Furthermore, data indicates that Bulgaria generates 2,246 kg of hazardous waste per capita in 2022, significantly higher than the EU average of 266 kg. The BNAO’s findings revealed that progress in waste management remains limited. The report points to the absence of a parliamentary-approved national environmental strategy and noted that the National Waste Management Plan does not adequately address industrial hazardous waste, the primary source.
Systemic issues include poor coordination and monitoring by the Environment Ministry. Municipal violations are frequently linked to illegal dumping sites, and nearly 29% of large municipalities lack designated collection points for household hazardous waste. The audit also contextualized these issues within the broader EU framework, noting nine infringement procedures previously launched against Bulgaria regarding waste directives.
In conclusion, the BNAO issued seven recommendations to the Ministry, emphasizing the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and improved regulatory oversight to mitigate environmental and public health risks associated with improper waste disposal.
Topics: #hazardous #waste #audit
