Construction and Demolition Waste Management Plan for Kosovo

The Republic of Kosovo recently has been experiencing a construction boom which led to an increase in the quantities of waste originating from the construction and demolition of residential buildings and other structures. As there is no adequate system in place for the collection and proper processing, recycling and disposal of construction and demolition waste (“CDW”) in Kosovo, this led to illegal disposal and generally has deteriorated the situation in this sector. The illegal disposal of CDW on arable land and along rivers is especially worrisome. Generally, CDW consists mainly of mineral components, so, therefore, can be considered as inert, nevertheless, it also may contain shares of hazardous components that have to be disposed of properly.

The Government of Kosovo is looking at the possibility of decommissioning the Thermal Power Plant Kosovo A. Large amount of CDW will be created due to the demolition of the TC Kosova A, which will be treated and disposed of through a special project.

The main objectives of the project are to provide increased and better services regarding the collection, sorting, processing, reuse, recycling and treatment/disposal of CDW for about 1,700,000 residents in Kosovo. In accordance with the Waste Management Strategy 2013-2022 and the revised draft of the Kosovo Integrated Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan 2019-2029, this investment would help with the elimination of illegal landfills, currently in approximately 1,000 locations across the country and aims to have a great impact in protecting the environment and human health.