Lesson 7: NATIONAL LEGISLATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA – NATIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

In this lesson, we will delve into the key legislative aspects related to waste management in the Republic of Serbia. We’ll also explore the waste substances associated with end-of-life vehicles.

Introduction to Waste Management Legislation

  • Waste, as defined by Serbian law, includes materials generated in production, services, consumption, and those excluded from use.
  • Used passenger vehicles fall under the category of waste.
  • Key laws and regulations pertaining to recycling used cars include the Law on Environmental Protection and the Law on Waste Management.

Recycling Industry Growth in Serbia

  • Recycling is a growing industry in Serbia, employing over 10,000 people in the last three years.
  • There are now 2,200 companies involved in waste collection and recycling, a significant increase from 2009 when there were only 200.

Challenges in End-of-Life Vehicle Management

  • Despite having 2.3 million registered vehicles with an average age of 16.5 years, Serbia lacks a systematic approach to vehicle recycling.
  • This deficiency leads to significant resource losses and negative ecological consequences.
  • The nation’s journey towards European Union membership has prompted a more serious approach to end-of-life vehicle management.

Relevant National Legislation

  • The Law on Waste Management
  • Strategy for Waste Management (2010-2019)
  • Methods and Procedures for Managing Waste Vehicles
  • These legislative documents cover various aspects of end-of-life vehicle management, including responsibilities, procedures, records, and compliance with EU directives.

Challenges in Implementing Legislation

  • Serbia faces challenges in implementing waste management legislation due to the relatively young state of its recycling industry.
  • Compliance with legal provisions and mindset changes require time and effort.
  • Treatment of end-of-life vehicles often does not meet environmental protection requirements.

1 The Role of the Waste Management Program (2022-2032)

  • In line with EU directives and a transition to a circular economy, the Waste Management Program for 2022-2032 was developed.
  • The program focuses on waste avoidance, transforming waste into high-quality secondary raw materials, and fostering a well-functioning secondary raw materials market.
  • Specific goals and actions align with the EU’s circular economy objectives.

EU Directives and Their Impact

  • Various EU directives, such as those related to waste vehicles, batteries, and waste electrical and electronic equipment, influence Serbia’s waste management practices.
  • These directives aim to prevent waste generation, promote recycling, and improve environmental performance.

2 Waste Substances in End-of-Life Vehicles

  • End-of-life vehicles have diverse compositions, including iron/steel (55-70%), non-ferrous metals (3-8%), plastic and textile (8-18%), rubber (2-4%), work fluids (2-5%), and other materials (5-10%).
  • Hazardous substances in old vehicles include fuel, engine oil, oil filters, braking fluid, coolant, batteries, airbags, and electronic components.

2.1 Waste Vehicles

  • Serbia generates around 40,000 tonnes of waste vehicles annually.
  • In 2020, only 2,391 tonnes were treated, highlighting the gap between waste generation and treatment capacity.
  • Several legal entities hold permits for waste vehicle management.

2.2 Waste Tyres

  • Waste tyres, a non-hazardous waste (16 01 03), make up a significant portion of waste.
  • In 2020, around 27,000 tonnes of waste tyres were recycled, and some were used as fuel in the cement industry.
  • Serbia aims to improve waste tyre collection and recycling.

2.3 Used Batteries and Car Batteries

  • Vehicle batteries consist of lead, nickel-cadmium, and silver-zinc types.
  • In 2020, Serbia generated approximately 17,951 tonnes of vehicle batteries.
  • Proper handling and recycling of vehicle batteries are essential.

2.4 Waste Oils

  • Waste oils, classified as hazardous waste, totaled 36,792.9 tonnes in 2020.
  • Only a fraction of this waste was treated and recycled.
  • Serbia aims to improve waste oil collection and treatment.

2.5  Electrical and Electronic Equipment Waste

  • Waste from electrical and electronic equipment, including hazardous components, is inadequately managed.
  • In recent years, Serbia placed around 60,000 tonnes of electrical and electronic equipment on the market.
  • Serbia is working to establish a collection system for household electronic waste.

Conclusion:

  • The Waste Management Program for 2022-2032 aligns with EU directives and promotes a circular economy, emphasizing waste avoidance, recycling, and sustainable resource management.
  • Serbia faces challenges in implementing waste management legislation, but efforts are underway to bridge the gap between waste generation and treatment capacity.
  • Addressing waste management comprehensively is essential for Serbia’s environmental protection, resource conservation, and alignment with European Union standards.
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