First working session of the Inter-Municipal Waste Management Board
Today in Bitola, the first working session of the Inter-Municipal Waste Management Board (MOUO) for the Pelagonia and Southwest regions took place, marking the start of the operational phase and the fulfillment of the obligations of the regional waste management system.
At the session, which was attended by all 18 mayors from both regions in their capacity as Board members, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning and international partners, key activities that will define the upcoming period and guide the further development of the regional system were reviewed.
During the meeting, it was emphasized that the establishment of the MOUO is the result of years of coordinated work by the municipalities of the two regions, institutions, and international partners, and represents an important step toward creating a modern, efficient, and sustainable waste management system.
As part of the session, the new web platform "Region Without Waste," which is currently under development, was presented. It will serve as a central hub for information, coordination, and transparent communication with the public, as well as for monitoring the work of the MOUO and the progress of the regional system.
Special emphasis was placed on activities planned for the first half of 2026, including the construction of transfer stations and the procurement of vehicles and equipment, the development of the new Regional Waste Management Plan, the formation of the regional public utility company, strengthening communication with citizens, waste data collection and management, as well as clearly defining the obligations of municipalities in the processes.
Board members pointed out that the upcoming period will be crucial for establishing stable foundations for a functional system that will provide better and more efficient services for citizens, greater environmental protection, and increased institutional accountability.
With this session, the MOUO confirmed its role as a key body for the coordination, planning, and supervision of waste management reforms in both regions, with a clear commitment to transparency, cooperation, and public involvement in the following processes.
The work of the Inter-Municipal Waste Management Board is supported by the project "Sustainable Waste Management at the Local Level," funded by Sweden and implemented by SALAR International, in cooperation with municipalities and national institutions.
Source: Debrca Municipality