Sweeping inspections are underway targeting illegal landfills and dump sites, with the Department of Environment, in collaboration with local authorities and the police, determined to tackle the issue.
Speaking on SIGMA’s programme “Mesimeri kai kati”, Theodoulos Mesimeris, Senior Officer at the Department of Environment, detailed the action plan aimed at combating illegal waste dumping and restoring areas identified with uncontrolled waste disposal. “This campaign is supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment,” noted Mr Mesimeris, adding that over 100 local authorities have joined the initiative so far, leading to the cleanup of more than 250 sites.
However, Mr Mesimeris emphasised that cleaning campaigns alone are insufficient to address the problem entirely. To that end, additional measures are being implemented, including the establishment of an inspection network and strengthened enforcement through police assistance.
Significantly, penalties for violators are severe, with fines reaching €20,000 for anyone caught engaging in illegal dumping. “We are determined to put an end to this harmful practice of illegal waste disposal. I hope we can send a strong message because this unsightly situation, particularly in rural areas, does not represent us. Beyond the environmental impact, it is also a matter of respecting the operational integrity of our communities and municipalities,” concluded Mr Mesimeris.
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Source: Economy Today
