Up to 800,000 Dram Fine for Burning Waste: New Legislation

A new legislative proposal aims to impose fines for burning waste generated from production, consumption, and leaf fall in residential areas and their surroundings, or in places not designated for such activities. These actions will result in warnings or fines of 50,000 Dram for citizens, and 200,000 Dram for officials.

The issue of burning production or consumption waste in unauthorized landfills will also be addressed. In this case, citizens will face fines of 100,000 Dram, while officials will incur penalties of 400,000 Dram. If an offence is repeated within one year after the imposition of a fine, the penalty will increase to 200,000 Dram for citizens and 800,000 Dram for officials.

The need for this draft law arises from the ecological problems caused by open burning of waste in landfills. Open burning of waste is the cheapest, quickest, and easiest method for disposing of household waste, but it is also the most dangerous option. This process releases a significant amount of dioxins and furans into the environment, which are byproducts of incomplete combustion and are regulated under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.

The ministry also adds that the adoption of this draft law will contribute to the fulfillment of Armenia's obligations under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, reduce emissions of hazardous substances, and prevent their harmful effects on human health and the environment while ensuring safety.