On July 30, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved in Khmelnytskyi as part of the "Modernization of Solid Waste Infrastructure in Khmelnytskyi" project, funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The signing of the agreement for the reclamation of the existing landfill and construction of two new waste storage facilities is the result of lengthy preparatory and tender procedures. The total project cost is €12,449,143, with a grant component of €5,471,000 provided by the European Union's Neighborhood Investment Platform (NIP EU). The winning bid was submitted by a consortium of companies from Greece and Azerbaijan, MESOGEOS S.A. and Hayat Group LLC.
Efforts to develop an integrated solid waste management system in Khmelnytskyi began in 2020, when the EBRD provided a priority loan to the Communal Enterprise “Spetskomuntrans”. The project was progressing successfully until the outbreak of full-scale war in 2022, which led to its suspension. Given that waste generation in Ukraine averages 250-300 kilograms per person per year and is on the rise, resuming work on the project became a critical task.
"The biggest challenge in this tender was that when the full-scale war began, many European companies refused to work in Ukraine. We had to convince the EBRD of the need to resume work, as this project is crucial for our city," said Mykola Vavryshchuk, Deputy Mayor of Khmelnytskyi.
The existing landfill, in operation since 1956, has exceeded its service life and urgently needs modernization. The landfill rises approximately 30 meters above ground level on the northern side, underscoring the need for immediate stabilization and modernization efforts. It is important to note that the landfill was neither designed nor operated according to European standards, further highlighting the necessity of its reconstruction. Considering the current challenges in waste management and the need to bring the landfill up to international standards, comprehensive modernization work is a priority.
The project is being implemented by the Communal Enterprise “Spetskomuntrans” and Smart Environment Khmelnytskyi, with professional technical support from consultants from the French company Egis. Egis provided comprehensive support to “Spetskomuntrans” throughout the procurement process, including the preparation of tender documents, evaluation of proposals, awarding and signing of the contract, and ongoing administration and technical supervision services. The primary goal is to assist the city in improving and developing an integrated, sustainable municipal solid waste management system in line with the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement (2014).
“The signing of this agreement marks a pivotal step forward in addressing the pressing environmental challenges faced by Khmelnytskyi. Our team at Egis is proud to contribute our expertise to ensure that the landfill reclamation and new waste storage facilities are developed to the highest international standards. This project not only improves local waste management infrastructure but also sets a benchmark for sustainable development in the region.” – shared Sigitas Rinkevicius, project Team Leader from Egis
"The start of work is rarely considered a result. However, for my colleagues and me, this event marks an important milestone, preceded by complex and prolonged efforts. Therefore, I congratulate us on the signing of the agreement! It marks the beginning of significant changes at the landfill, which will, in turn, make an important contribution to the city's development," said Ivan Pidopryhora, Head of the Project Implementation Unit.
Photo by @Smart Environment Khmelnytskyi
