Mapping POPs in Bosnia-Herzegovina

Related theme: Soil and groundwater

Challenge – Tackling pollutants

The United Nations Development Programme (UNPD) supports Bosnia-Herzegovina in meeting the requirements of the Stockholm Convention, a treaty drawn up to protect public health and the environment from toxic chemicals known as POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants).
TAUW was asked to create a detailed inventory of POPs in Bosnia-Herzegovina in partnership with ENOVA. This was a challenging project because of the wide range of contaminants in the sites, the different stakeholders  and the political landscape of Bosnia Herzegovina.

Identifying the location and quantities of pollutants was only part of the assignment. The UNPD asked TAUW to conduct investigations of contaminated sites and develop suitable remediation strategies.

Solution – applying expertise and sharing knowledge

When TAUW had completed the initial inventories, the team carried out a preliminary risk assessment of the sites potentially contaminated with POPs. These sites were then prioritised on the level of contamination and accessibility of the site. Once the sites had been identified, the TAUW team conducted detailed investigations of the high-risk sites and drew up thorough remediation plans to tackle the contamination.
Lastly TAUW organised a workshop on the sustainable remediation of contaminated sites, specifically for POP-contaminated sites. The workshop was attended by various government institutions, research institutes and health care providers.

Impact – Sustainable strategy ensures alignment

With this study TAUW was able to create a detailed record of POP-contaminated sites showing the amount and type of pollutants in those areas. This is a significant contribution to the wider objective of reducing the health and environmental risks of contaminants and aligning with sustainability legislation. TAUW’s plans and strategies for sustainable remediation will have a positive impact on the environment. Consultants shared their expertise to ensure local and national stakeholders have a clear perspective on how to continue their endeavours for a greener future.