Technical Assistance for the Solid Waste and Wastewater Management in Banja Luka Project
Author(s): Merih Kerestecioglu, Ulku Yetis, Filiz Dilek, Melina Džajić-Valjevac, Maja Maretić Tiro, David Toft, Admir Mešanović, Draženko Bjelić, Predrag Delić, Amina Obućina
Date: – January 2023 – December 2024
Long story short: Project focuses on improving solid waste and wastewater management systems to achieve long-term environmental benefits in the City of Banja Luka. The project was fully funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB) under the Economic Resilience Initiative and is being implemented by the COWI and ENOVA Consortium in 2023-2024. Its primary goal is to protect public health and the environment in Banja Luka through better wastewater treatment and solid waste management.
Main Content: The project aimed to analyze options for solid waste management and wastewater treatment in Banja Luka, helping the city select the most suitable technologies for both sectors. Key objectives included improving the waste management system by identifying opportunities for higher recycling rates and developing a circular economy. For wastewater management, the project proposed the optimal technology for a centralized Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) to ensure effective treatment, contributing to improved water quality and reduced environmental impact. The project utilized Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) to evaluate different options, ensuring they are economically feasible and environmentally sustainable. To familiarize local stakeholders (public utility companies and the City of Banja Luka) with the project, a total of seven workshops were held to build their capacity for the sustainable operation of these systems.
Impact on Industry: The project provided a long-term solution for waste and wastewater management in Banja Luka and supported the city in selecting solutions that are both cost-effective and technically viable, while also ensuring environmental efficiency.
Conclusion: Technical Assistance for Solid Waste and Wastewater Management in Banja Luka Project has effectively equipped the city with the necessary tools and strategies to enhance its waste management and wastewater treatment systems. By prioritizing sustainability and capacity building, the project has laid the foundation for the development of a cleaner, more efficient infrastructure, which will deliver long-term benefits to the city and its residents.
