Several mayors’ offices in Anenii Noi district continue to oppose plans to build a Regional Waste Management Center in the Serpeni area. Local authorities are calling for a transparent assessment of alternative locations and consultations with communities before a final decision is made.
Local representatives say they do not oppose the reform of the waste management system or the development of modern infrastructure, but are concerned about the potential impact of the project on local communities and the environment, IPN reports.
Speaking at a press conference, Anenii Noi District Council President Alexandru Moisei said the position presented at the event was not a personal opinion, but one officially supported by local authorities.
According to Moisei, on June 17, the Anenii Noi District Council adopted a decision expressing its opposition to locating regional waste management infrastructure within the district. Later, on August 19, 22 mayors signed a joint resolution calling for all potential locations to be assessed transparently.
Local authorities argue that the district is already facing significant environmental pressure, including due to the existing waste management infrastructure in Tantareni. The mayors called for an objective and comprehensive assessment of all available sites, taking into account their potential impact on the environment, public health and living conditions.
At the press conference, Victor Gorin, mayor of Botnaresti commune, said local authorities do not oppose reforming the waste management system or developing modern infrastructure, but believe transparency and public consultations are essential.
Ion Berzoi, mayor of Bulboaca commune, pointed to existing environmental problems in the district. A resident of Speia said that several families in the community oppose the project, citing concerns about their children’s future and environmental quality.
In a response to IPN, the Ministry of Environment’s press service said that a modern Regional Waste Management Center, rather than a simple “landfill,” is planned for Serpeni.
The site is located outside the built-up area, belongs to the Public Property Agency and is approximately six kilometers from Serpeni and four kilometers from Speia. Access roads to the facility will not pass through the villages.
According to the ministry, the center will include waterproofing systems, gas collection and leachate treatment facilities.
The project, financed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), is currently undergoing an environmental impact assessment. Studies and public consultations are expected to take place before a final decision is made.
The project is part of Moldova’s plan to establish six regional waste management centers across the country, the ministry added.