Albania's Economic Growth Struggles with Waste Management
TIRANA, ALBANIA - As Albania's economy continues to grow at a steady pace, the country is facing an increasingly pressing issue: waste management. Despite promises made in 2018 to construct a modern waste-to-energy plant, the project remains unfinished and under investigation for corruption.
According to data from 2022, nearly 77% of refuse generated in Albania was sent to landfill, while less than 20% was recycled. The remainder was either burned or left uncollected. This lack of effective waste management has severe consequences for the environment and public health.
Environmental expert Olsi Nika, director of the NGO Eco Albania, notes that "the capital's waste crisis has reached a critical point." Nika attributes the issue to the city's rapid expansion, which has far outpaced its infrastructure. Waste collection in Tirana is irregular, recycling almost non-existent, and the main landfill site is nearing full capacity.
The city's population of nearly one million people generates almost half of the country's urban waste. This strain on resources highlights the need for a comprehensive waste management system. However, the government's efforts to address this issue have been hindered by corruption allegations surrounding the construction of the modern waste-to-energy plant.
Denisa Kasa, an environmental activist, expresses her disappointment at how Albania's nature is treated. "It's hard not to be disappointed when you see the state of our environment," she says. "We need a more sustainable approach to waste management, one that prioritizes recycling and reduces landfill waste."
The economic impact of this crisis cannot be overstated. Inefficient waste management costs the country an estimated 10 million euros annually in lost revenue from recyclable materials. Moreover, the environmental damage caused by uncollected waste poses significant health risks for residents.
As Albania's economy continues to grow, it is imperative that the government addresses this pressing issue. The construction of a modern waste-to-energy plant remains stalled, and efforts to revamp the country's waste management system are underway. However, much work needs to be done to ensure that Albania's economic growth does not come at the expense of its environment.
Background:
Albania's economy has experienced steady growth over the past decade, with a GDP increase of 4% in 2022. The country's tourism industry has seen significant expansion, and foreign investment has increased. However, this growth has put pressure on the country's infrastructure, including waste management systems.
Additional Perspectives:
Experts argue that effective waste management is essential for Albania's economic development. "A modern waste-to-energy plant would not only reduce landfill waste but also provide a source of renewable energy," says Nika. Kasa emphasizes the need for community involvement in waste management efforts. "Residents must be educated on proper waste disposal and recycling practices to ensure that this crisis is addressed effectively."
Current Status:
The government has announced plans to revamp the country's waste management system, including the construction of new landfills and expansion of recycling facilities. However, these efforts are hindered by corruption allegations surrounding the modern waste-to-energy plant project.
As Albania continues on its path towards economic growth, it is crucial that the government prioritizes effective waste management. The consequences of inaction will be severe, both environmentally and economically.
*Reporting by Dw.*
