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Description
As correct identification and classification of hazardous waste is crucial for proper decision making in the whole waste management chain – from generation to final treatment.
Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania initiated this project aimed to improve the capacity of Lithuania''s environmental authorities and other public and private stakeholders to identify and classify hazardous waste properly in line with the EU Framework Directive on Waste.
The project includes:
- Analysis on the main sources of hazardous waste and treatment options;
- Development of a unified methodology for identification of hazardous waste;
- Development of video lectures for online learning;
- Training workshops for representatives of environmental authorities and economic entities to use the methodology for identification of hazardous waste;
- Study visits to Norway for staff of Lithuania''s environmental authorities.
Project benefit
The project will provide uniform tools to authorities and companies to classify hazardous waste, thus reducing the risk of potential harm to environment and minimizing the probability of disputes or litigation cases.
Target groups of the project: Employees of state environmental protection institutions (Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania, Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Environmental Protection under the Ministry of Environmental Protection) and representatives of economic entities operating in the field of hazardous waste management or generating hazardous waste.
The project is implemented jointly with the partners: Environmental Protection Agency and Environmental Protection Department under the Ministry of Environment whose specialists will provide comments and suggestions during the preparation of the methodology and after the project will use the methodology for the implementation of their direct functions.
Summary of project results
Lithuania produces an average of 163,000 tons of hazardous waste each year, but managing it remains a major challenge. One of the biggest issues is the incorrect identification and classification of hazardous substances, leading to inefficient waste collection and treatment. When hazardous waste is not properly managed, it can contaminate soil, seep into groundwater, and pose serious risks to both the environment and public health.
Under current laws, businesses are responsible for determining whether their waste is hazardous or non-hazardous. However, many companies lack the necessary expertise and information, resulting in frequent misclassification and improper treatment of hazardous waste. Environmental authorities, responsible for regulating and overseeing waste management, also face difficulties in correctly identifying and classifying hazardous waste.
Proper identification and classification are critical for making the right decisions at every stage of the waste management process - from waste generation to final treatment. To address these challenges, the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania launched this project to strengthen the ability of environmental authorities and other public and private stakeholders to accurately identify and classify hazardous waste in line with the EU Waste Framework Directive.
The project focused on several key activities to improve hazardous waste management in Lithuania:
- A study was conducted to identify the main sources of hazardous waste and explore treatment options.
- A unified methodology for identifying hazardous waste was developed.
- An interactive e-tool was created to help users apply the new methodology effectively.
- Training workshops were held for representatives of environmental authorities and businesses, equipping 84 participants with the knowledge to correctly identify and classify hazardous waste.
- A study visit to Norway was organized for staff from Lithuania''s environmental authorities, allowing them to gain insights from international best practices.
A study was conducted to develop a unified methodology for identifying hazardous waste. Its goal was to establish clear and consistent guidelines for applying national and EU waste classification regulations, ensuring proper identification, classification, and safe management of hazardous waste.
As a result, the Minister of Environment approved the Methodology for the Identification and Classification of Hazardous Waste and introduced amendments to the Waste Management Rules. These regulations define how to assess hazardous waste properties, classify waste correctly, and ensure safe handling. The methodology is designed for all stakeholders, including waste producers, waste management companies, and national and municipal authorities.
To support the implementation of these regulations, an electronic tool was developed. This tool allows both businesses and residents to quickly and easily access information on hazardous waste identification and proper management using a mobile phone or computer.