The issue of waste disposal in the northern municipalities of Montenegro, particularly in Rožaje, has been a long-standing environmental challenge. The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a decision to halt waste disposal at the temporary Mostina site due to inadequate conditions and legal violations. The local administration lacks the capacity to transport waste to other municipalities, which could lead to pollution and health problems for residents. Environmental activists emphasize the need to build a recycling center in northern Montenegro as a long-term solution in line with European directives. Health professionals warn of potential consequences if the problem is not addressed promptly. The local administration has started site remediation but seeks additional state support.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning reports emphasize the environmental and public health risks posed by improper waste disposal in northern Montenegro. They highlight the failure of local authorities and the state to provide adequate infrastructure and call for urgent government intervention and investment in sustainable waste management solutions, such as recycling centers. Activists’ voices and ecological justice are foregrounded.
Center: Center-leaning coverage presents a balanced view, acknowledging the environmental problems and the administrative challenges faced by local authorities. It stresses the need for compliance with environmental laws and the importance of finding practical, long-term solutions that align with European standards. The potential health risks and logistical difficulties are also noted.
Right: Right-leaning narratives focus on the administrative and operational difficulties faced by local governments, warning about the immediate consequences of closing existing waste sites without alternatives, such as illegal dumping and public health hazards. They emphasize the need for pragmatic solutions and criticize bureaucratic delays or overregulation that hinder effective waste management.
