jäätmeküsimusi

Jäätmeküsimused, or waste management issues, in Estonia encompass a range of challenges and ongoing efforts related to the collection, treatment, and disposal of waste. The country has been actively working to align its waste management practices with European Union directives, focusing on waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.

Key areas of concern include increasing the recycling rates for municipal waste, managing hazardous waste effectively, and addressing the environmental impact of landfills. Estonia has seen a steady increase in recycling, with significant progress in separating paper, plastic, glass, and metal. However, challenges remain in areas like construction and demolition waste, and electronic waste.

The principle of producer responsibility is a cornerstone of Estonian waste policy, making manufacturers and importers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products. This applies to packaging, batteries, tires, and electrical and electronic equipment. Collection systems and infrastructure are continuously being developed to facilitate easier and more widespread recycling and waste treatment.

Public awareness and participation are also crucial factors in improving waste management. Educational campaigns aim to inform citizens about proper waste sorting, the benefits of reducing consumption, and the availability of recycling services. The overarching goal is to transition towards a circular economy, where resources are kept in use for as long as possible, extracting the maximum value from them, and then recovering and regenerating products and materials at the end of each service life.