Moldovan cabinet discusses concept of accumulating, processing of solid waste

Chisinau, 18 October /MOLDPRES/ – The Cabinet of Ministers has discussed today the improvement of the solid waste management process in Moldova and measures to be undertaken on it. Prime Minister, Pavel Filip, reiterated the necessity of developing a national vision on the accumulation and processing of waste, which would have a beneficial impact upon environment, population, but also economic agents, the government’s communication and protocol department has reported.

"It is a common issue for all localities of the country and in this field it is required the launch of a national project that clearly regulates the technological scheme for waste collecting, sorting and processing. We must create a centralised system, a simpler yet functional mechanism. A plan at the central level will also allow us to optimise spending," said Pavel Filip. Applying existing laws does not solve the problem of faulty management, and in order to create a new concept, it must be a strategic approach, with the responsibilities of authorities at all levels and identification of necessary resources.

At present, the waste collection is the responsibility of local authorities, which do not have sufficient capacity to select land for storage. Also, a large number of people do not benefit from waste collection services and transport them individually without paying taxes. It also mentions the lack of regulations on management of construction waste and car services, as well as very small contravention sanctions for breach of legislation.

During the meeting, it was emphasised the need to develop a methodology for calculation of tariffs for waste collection and departure. "I think tariffs should be set by the central public administration. We need to see how much people can pay for this service and how much the state should compensate, in order to maintain an efficient system," specified PM. Some other proposals discussed aimed to identify an entity responsible for the waste management process, as well as to reduce landfills located in the regions. The concept of solid waste management is to be completed in upcoming period.