IWMB reviewed the draft version of the new Regional Waste Management Plan 2027-2032 for the Pelagonija and South-west regions

Today in Bitola, the Intermunicipal Waste Management Board (IWMB) for the Pelagonija and South-west regions held its second working session, focused on progress toward a regional waste management system and the preparation of the new regional waste management plan (RWMP) for the 2027-2032 period.

During the session, the draft version of the new RWMP was presented and discussed, including priority areas identified during the planning process related to infrastructure, waste separation, and the closure and remediation of dumpsites and non-compliant landfills, as well as upcoming municipal obligations over the six-year RWMP implementation timeline. Additionally, communication strategies and the engagement of citizens and civil society organizations were discussed as integral components of plan implementation and the overall operation of the regional waste management system.

IWMB members also discussed the progress, status, and planned activities of key waste management projects in the region, including the regional waste management centre and bypass road in Novaci, transfer stations, procurement of vehicles and equipment, methodology for new waste tariffs, and the establishment of the regional public utility company.

Special attention was given to collecting and processing municipal waste data. By decision of the IWMB, the Waste-free Region platform was established as the regional platform for systematic waste data collection, covering estimated quantities of generated and collected waste, as well as measured quantities from certified weighbridges across all approved measurement sites. In line with this decision, conversion factors were established to help determine the actual quantities of mixed municipal waste in kilograms, allowing municipalities to gain a clearer overview of the situation. This approach will enable municipalities to make data-driven decisions throughout the planning period.

Furthermore, the IWMB adopted a decision to prepare a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the RWMP 2027-2032 for the Pelagonija and South-west regions. The SEA will identify potential environmental impacts resulting from the implementation of the regional plan and, if necessary, propose alternative solutions to avoid or mitigate those impacts, aiming to protect the environment and public health.

Representatives from civil society organizations also attended the working session, reaffirming the Board's commitment to involving CSOs in the regional planning process and subsequent plan implementation. Their participation is recognized as essential for gaining a better understanding of community needs and challenges, as well as fostering an open dialogue between public institutions and the public.

The work of the IWMB is supported by the Sustainable municipal waste management services project, funded by Sweden and implemented by SALAR International.