Due to protests by locals, round table on hazardous waste incinerator cancelled in Bosanski Petrovac

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Due to protests by the local population, the holding of a round table on the topic „Establishment and commissioning of a device for thermal treatment of waste generated in the protection of human and animal health“, initiated by the investor of this project, the company Zanni BH d.o.o. from Lukavac, was cancelled today in Bosanski Petrovac. 

Residents of this municipality, together with representatives of the Center for Environment, who joined them in front of the House of Culture in Bosanski Petrovac where the round table was to be held, clearly and loudly opposed this project and once again stated that they will not allow its implementation.

"Planning an incinerator for hazardous waste four kilometres from the city centre has no justification. Besides exposing the local population to highly toxic substances, the operation of the incinerator would also threaten the main economic activity of this region - agriculture, thereby seriously jeopardising the survival of the local community. Bosanski Petrovac has a nature it is proud of, and everything should be done to protect that natural wealth and make it the basis for developing the tourist potential of this area,“ pointed out Marina Kuburić from the Center for Environment.

She explains that incinerators are one of the largest sources of dioxins and furans, heavy metals, and very fine particles. Due to these emissions, studies link the presence of incinerators with an increased incidence of cancer, pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases, as well as miscarriages and premature births.

We recall, the letter of intent for the project of an incinerator for animal, medical and pharmaceutical waste in Bosanski Petrovac was accepted by the municipal council in October 2019, the same month the mentioned company was founded. Under public pressure, the council in August last year adopted a conclusion to permanently suspend all activities related to this and future projects for thermal waste treatment. After the local elections, the investor revived this topic, organising a meeting with the municipal mayor and the new municipal council, as well as a round table. 

However, citizens clearly stated they do not want this facility near them and confirmed this again at today's event.

"I am very proud of the citizens who came out today and raised their voices against the construction of the incinerator. People gave their maximum, recognised the danger and were united in their stance. To build a better future, we must recognise danger in time and move forward together, fighting against all the hardships that await us. Today, Bosanski Petrovac showed its unity and the true nature of the people of Petrovac, who are determined to leave what was left to them by their ancestors healthy for their descendants,“ emphasised resident Sanja Stojanović.