The Society of Young Ecologists Nikšić (DMEN) conducted a workshop titled “Construction Waste as a Resource.” Participants also had the chance to review the “Analysis of the State of Construction Waste in Nikšić with Recommendations,” which DMEN prepared for the initiative. The event attracted representatives from local institutions, non-governmental organizations, the academic community, and citizens concerned with environmental protection.

In the opening remarks, Miodrag Karadžić from DMEN addressed the attendees, emphasizing, as mentioned in the press release, that construction waste poses a significant challenge in Montenegro, particularly due to the evident lack of recycling initiatives.

“Construction activities, including demolition of old structures, renovation, and new builds, generate substantial amounts of waste. Materials such as concrete, bricks, wood, metal, and glass are often not disposed of in regulated landfills, nor are they properly stored or processed. Instead, they end up in illegal dumps or natural areas like riverbanks and suburban roadsides. This improper disposal leads to soil and water pollution and degradation of natural landscapes, posing risks to both human and animal health,” Karadžić stated.

He also highlighted that hazardous materials, including asbestos, lead, and crystalline quartz, often found in construction waste, can pose severe health risks if not managed correctly during disposal.

“The technical director of the Livade landfill, Ratko Pavićević, noted that construction and demolition waste falls under Chapter 17 of the European Waste Catalogue (EWC). He outlined that there are two officially designated sites for the disposal of this type of waste in Montenegro: Dragalj (Kotor Municipality) and Brajići (Budva Municipality),” the statement mentioned.

Pavićević introduced attendees to the revised regulations regarding construction waste management, stating that these updates are improvements. The new Waste Management Plan for Montenegro sets specific goals that include provisions for construction waste. He cited Norway as a positive example, where recycling yards are equipped with multiple containers for various types of construction waste.

“Pavićević emphasized that the Livade landfill has conducted research on the potential for processing construction waste and is planning to acquire a construction waste processing facility. He also mentioned a local success story—the 3D room that processes discarded plastics. He pointed out that small waste volumes hinder technological development in Montenegro, as they do not guarantee quick returns on investment. Furthermore, he emphasized that achieving effective waste sorting does not require profitability. Extended producer responsibility and subsidy principles were also highlighted, along with the crucial role of the Eco Fund in promoting measures in Montenegro,” the statement concluded.

The workshop on construction waste was conducted as part of the “Urban Mining” project, supported by the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development.

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