‘Fact’. Sanitary Landfills to Be Constructed, Existing Ones to Be Improved or Closed

‘Fact’ newspaper reports: The Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure has presented a draft for public discussion that proposes to establish minimum norms for the improvement, operation, and closure of existing landfills and garbage dumps throughout the country. The objective is to ensure ecologically safe conditions and to reduce or neutralize the negative and hazardous impacts of landfills on human health and the environment.

By the government resolution No 464-L dated April 1, 2021, the 'Waste Management Strategy and the Program of Measures for the Implementation of the Strategy for 2021-2023' was approved, which includes the improvement of existing dumps and the closure of those dumps that are deemed unsuitable for modernization. In terms of prospective developments, a limited number of regional landfills compliant with EU standards are to be created.

With assistance from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the first sanitary landfill in the republic has already been constructed in the Hrazdan community within the framework of a solid waste management program for the Kotayk and Gegharkunik provinces. Transfer stations have been established in Akunk and Martuni, waste collection schemes have been developed for all settlements, and processes for purchasing necessary equipment are currently underway. The system and operation of the landfill are expected to be implemented in 2024.

The Bank also plans to construct a sanitary landfill in Yerevan that meets EU standards, alongside closing the existing landfill in the city. Additionally, the implementation of the 'Integrated Solid Waste Management System in 8 Provinces of Armenia' is planned, which will involve zoning the territory of Armenia for solid waste management, creating an effective institutional and management system, and subsequently conducting capital projects based on zoning.

Considering that the construction of sanitary landfills under the projects supported by the EBRD will take considerable time, it is necessary to improve existing garbage dumps. The draft specifies what types of waste are prohibited from being placed in solid domestic waste landfills, establishes a ban on burning waste on landfill territory, and sets out requirements for fire safety measures. Minimum norms and requirements include demarcating the landfill area with a fence, equipping entrances, etc.