SOLID WASTE MAPPING IN KUKES’ 2

MAPPING OF SOLID WASTE IN THE RIVERS OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF KUKES

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This publication is supported by the 2014-2020 IPA Cross-Border Program -, funded by the European Union and managed by the European Commission Delegation in Albania. This document was drafted as part of the “Gjakova and Kukes Clean Water Project” which is being implemented after the 2nd round of calls for project proposals of the IPA Cross-Border Program between Albania and Kosovo throughout 2014 - 2020, funded by the European Union and managed by the European Commission Delegation in Albania.

The Clean Water Project in Gjakova and Kukes is being implemented by a consortium of non- governmental actors and local governments, under the direction of SHE-ERA. Other members of the consortium include the Municipality of Gjakova, the Municipality of Kukes and, the Albanian Center for Economic Research (ACER). The research on mapping the waste and landfills in rivers in the municipality of Gjakova in Kosovo and the municipality of Kukes in Albania was conducted by the Non-Governmental Organization Let’s Do It between the 10th of October, 2020, and 24th of January, 2021.

Address: Women Business Association SHE-ERA “Jakova Innovation Center” First Floor - “Gjakova and Kukes Clean Water Project” St. Sylejman Hadum Aga, #189, Email address: [email protected]

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Table of Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 6 2. METHODOLOGY ...... 7 3. INFORMATION ON THE MUNICIPALITY OF KUKES ...... 9 4. LEGISLATION ON WATER PROTECTION AND TREATMENT ...... 10 4.1 LAW No. 111/2012 ON INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF WATER RESOURCES ...... 10 4.2 National Water Resources Management Strategy 2017-2027 ...... 12 4.3 National Strategy of Water Supply and Sewerage Sector, 2020-2030 ...... 13 5. LOCAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK ...... 15 5.1 General local plan of Kukes municipality (Territorial strategy)...... 15 5.2 Integrated waste management plan, Municipality of Kukes 2016 - 2020 ...... 15 6. WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF KUKES ...... 17 6.1 Information on water management in the municipality of Kukes ...... 17 7. CURRENT PROJECTS/ACTIVITIES RELATED TO WATER POLLUTION ...... 21 8. FINDINGS ...... 23 8.1. Field observations ...... 23 8.2 Graphic presentation of landfills by size and in percentage ...... 25 8.3 Graphic presentation of landfills by type and in percentage ...... 25 8.4 Graphic presentation of landfills by type and size and in percentage ...... 26 Link to access the Digital Map of landfills ...... 27 Scan QR Code with a mobile phone for easier access to the Digital Map...... 27 9. CONCLUSIONS ...... 28 10. RECOMMENDATIONS...... 29 11. REFERENCES ...... 31 ANNEX 1: ...... 32 1.1 Map of all identified landfills ...... 32 1.2 Map of small sized landfills ...... 33 1.3 Map of medium sized landfills ...... 35 1.4 Map of large sized landfills ...... 37 1.4 The map of distributed landfills ...... 39 ANNEX 2: ...... 41 Photos of some illegal landfills from field observations ...... 41 2.1 Photos of Small Sized Landfills ...... 41 2.2 Photos of Medium Sized Landfills ...... 42 2.3 Photos of Large Sized Landfills ...... 43 2.4 Photos of Distributed Landfills ...... 44

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1. INTRODUCTION

The report "Mapping of solid waste in the rivers of the municipality of Kukes" been conducted by the non-governmental organization "Let's do it Peja" within the service contract with the "Clean Water Project in Gjakova and Kukes." This project is supported by the European Union through the IPA II Cross-Border Program between Kosovo and Albania.

The report provides the latest data and information at the time of its compilation. The views and opinions referred to have been expressed directly by the authors and not by the contracting party or the project donor.

The issue, namely the illegal dumping and piling of waste in the rivers and streams of the municipality of Kukes is of great public concern, as well as a constant and serious danger to water, flora, and fauna, and the destruction of areas of special natural interest, such as landscapes and cultural and natural heritage or other locations in the vicinity.

In the area covered by this report, there are many irresponsible citizens, who have dumped and still dump vast amounts of waste in river beds and ravines. Most of the waste comes from the rivers of Kosovo.

The company dealing with water management does not cover the entire territory of the municipality of Kukes with the service it provides. The lack of institutional capacity (mechanisms and human resources/expertise) is another negative factor in this regard. All this has a major impact on the current water management situation.

Pollution of water by illegal landfills has been going on for a long time now, and this adds to health risks for the users of these waters as well as for people living nearby.

To improve the current situation, NGOs have taken many public actions to clean/eliminate unregulated landfills on and near river beds, but without finding solutions for areas where waste is not collected by public waste companies, the situation will hardly improve rapidly.

Illegal landfills, in addition to disturbing the locals and potential tourists, also pose a danger to the environment by polluting the air, water, and soil. It is, therefore, very important to work on raising the awareness of people, particularly those who live nearby, to not dispose of waste. Civil society should raise its voice to encourage reforms in policy as well as awareness and change in social behavior.

The final data presented in the report will be used as an awareness-raising tool, but also to promote policy reform in water management, waste management, and social behavior. The main objective of this report is therefore to define a basic assessment of illegal landfills and polluted water areas, using undisputed qualitative data for the municipality of Kukes.

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2. METHODOLOGY

The methodology used in this report is a standardized and previously validated methodology, through which the data provided in the report are collected.

In this report were collected and listed data obtained from desk and field research. During the fieldwork, consultations were conducted with various local government authorities, local NGOs (environmental protection associations and other stakeholders) and others. During the research, polluted and problematic points were identified along the entire length of river beds, including pollution caused by solid waste in rivers and streams and the of the municipality of Kukes.

At the end of the fieldwork, the most prominent points with waste in the rivers of the municipality of Kukes were mapped, thus providing a clear picture of the locations and the current condition there.

During several months of preparing this report, national and local legislation was taken into account, the strategies and plans for water management were researched, the work of the bodies and institutions in charge of waste and water management, and current ongoing projects related to the topic in question were reviewed.

The information obtained from the field includes the identification of locations with the largest amount of waste along rivers and streams at a distance of 15 meters from the edges of river beds with their tributaries in the municipality of Kukes such as: "Drini i Bardhë, Drini i Zi, Lume, and Bushtrica.”

To identify and demonstrate the actual situation, during fieldwork, were used photos/cameras, aerial drones and GPS signal devices, and the Google map platform. Thanks to this equipment, field teams have been able to provide an adequate quantity of photographs and/or videos for each site marked and classified as polluted. The locations, geographical coordinates, size, volume, and substance of each waste dumped along rivers and streams have also been identified.

In compliance with the EU directive on landfills (18), Law no. 10463, dated 22.09.2011, on Integrated Waste Management defines inert waste as follows:

"inert waste is waste that is not subject to any significant physical, chemical or biological transformation. Inert waste does not dissolve, burn, physically interact or chemically react, biodegrade or adversely affect other substances with which it comes into contact, in such a way as to cause environmental pollution or harm human health. The total liquefaction capacity, pollutant content, and ecotoxicity of inert waste effluents must be insignificant and in particular, must not endanger the quality of surface water and/or groundwater.”

The term 'illegal landfill' is defined as any point outside the landfills defined in Article 33 of Law No. 04/60 on waste. To date, the term 'illegal landfill' has not been legally distinguished from 'dumping waste.' For this methodology, a landfill shall be defined as any amount of waste exceeding a volume of 200 liters (i.e. comparable to a standard cart) in an unspecified location.

During the research, the waste was categorized according to the volume and type of waste:

By volume: a) Small sized landfill: 1 – 5 bags or plastic bags of the capacity of 200L b) Medium sized landfill: 6 – 20 plastic bags c) Large sized landfill: 21 or more plastic bags and d) Landfill with waste scattered over 10 meters in length or area.

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By type: a) Household waste landfill; b) Construction and demolition waste landfill; c) Hazardous waste landfill; d) Bulky waste landfill; e) Other mixed landfill waste.

All the data from desk and field research have been collected as a whole, thus building a comprehensive database, including electronic maps of each waste-polluted site.

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3. INFORMATION ON THE MUNICIPALITY OF KUKES

Kukes is located in the north-eastern part of Albania on the border with the Republic of Kosovo, respectively with the Municipalities of and Gjakova. It is the heart of the Has area, one of the deepest regions of Albania.

Kukes lies at the foot of the mountain Gjallica, with an altitude of 2489 meters above the sea, and on the shores of Lake , an artificial lake created in the late 70s.

The accumulation of Lake Fierza was done by flooding the old town of Kukes and its relocation to a nearby plateau, known as the plateau. Today's city of Kukes, built according to the socialist urban model, is called the New Kukes by the inhabitants.

In recent years the city of Kukesh has survived thanks to the remittances of its citizens living and working in various European countries. But the residents of Kukes also work in agriculture, livestock, and fishing, as the only means of subsistence.

Surrounded by mountains with picturesque views, such as Gjallica, Koritnik, tourist area, etc., but also with abundant water, whether from Lake Fierza or the rivers, the city of Kukes has enough potential for tourism development and attraction. In this respect, many locals are committed to creating conditions for tourism activities throughout the seasons, and this is seen as a promising prospect for economic growth in the immediate future..

The hydrography of the Kukes district is represented by the lower reaches of the Drini i Zi and Drini i Bardhe, as well as their tributaries, such as the Luma, Bushtrice rivers, numerous streams, and a large number of underground springs, mostly karst springs.

The Kukes area is an early historical settlement, as shown by the Illyrian tombs discovered in the village of Kënetë.

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4. LEGISLATION ON WATER PROTECTION AND TREATMENT

The Republic of Albania has drafted a series of laws and other acts, which best regulate the protection and treatment of water throughout the country.

In general, Albania has a highly centralized legislative water management system, thus, even at the local level, in the Municipality of Kukes, we have not encountered many documents on the topic.

However, during the analysis of legislative documents approved by the central level, it is noticed that even with these documents, water protection and treatment is highly regulated and well handled by the central level.

4.1 LAW No. 111/2012 ON INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

This law aims: a) protection and improvement of the aquatic environment, surface waters, whether temporary or permanent, inland waters, territorial waters, exclusive economic zones, continental shelf, transboundary waters, groundwater, and their status; b) provision, preservation, development, and rational use of water resources necessary for life and social and economic development of the country; c) fair distribution of water resources, according to the purposes of use and directing and effective management of them; d) protection of water resources from pollution, misuse and consumption over actual needs; e) defining the institutional framework, at a national and local level, for the implementation of a national policy for the administration and management of water resources for the benefit of the community and the social and economic interests of the country.

National bodies for the administration and management of water resources are: a) Council of ministers; b) National Water Council; c) The Ministry; d) Technical Secretariat of the National Water Council. Local bodies for integrated management of water resources are a) water basin councils; b) water basin agencies.

National Waster Council

1. The National Water Council is the central decision-making body responsible for the management of water resources. 2. The National Water Council is an inter-ministerial body chaired by the Prime Minister and deals with issues of integrated administration and management of water resources.

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The Ministry

1. The Ministry, in cooperation with the relevant ministries, drafts, and implements policies, strategies, programs, and projects aimed at the integrated management of water resources, quantitative and qualitative conservation, as well as their further consolidation. 2. The Ministry directs its policies towards the effective and sustainable development of water resources, the enhancement of the economic level, and the quality of life of present and future generations. 3. The Ministry is the contracting authority that, following the legal acts in force, is responsible for the economic activity of the water resources for which they grant the concession.

Water basin council

1. The Water Basin Council is the body responsible for the integrated management of water resources at the local level in the respective basin. 2. The Water Basin Council operates on these tasks: a) Ensures the conservation and rational development of water resources within the boundaries of the respective water basin; b) Ensures a fair allocation of water resources within the boundaries of the respective water basin, according to the purposes of usage and the direction and effective management of them; c) Provides protection of water resources from pollution, misuse, and damage that affects their quality and quantity; d) Identifies relevant water bodies in need of protection. 3. The Water Basin Council has public legal status and depends on the Technical Secretariat of the National Water Council.

International cooperation

1. The Republic of Albania concludes agreements with neighboring countries, to develop and foster cooperation on the protection of transboundary waters, the need to strengthen the national and bilateral action, as well as to prevent pollution of water resources. 2. Cross-border cooperation aims at protecting transboundary waters in their natural state, ensuring optimal conditions for the development of life and habitats in them, encouraging beneficial activities, following the requirements of the principle of sustainable development.

Implementation of international agreements, conventions and protocols

1. All legal acts and by-laws in force for the protection of the environment of the Republic of Albania, as well as agreements, conventions, international protocols to which the Republic of Albania is part, shall be applied for the protection of the natural state of the transboundary waters.. 2. Cross-border waters can only be used in a controlled manner and within scientifically defined limits, without damaging their natural conditions and biological and ecological balances. 3. Natural and legal persons, local or foreign, who use or exercise various activities in water, natural and biological resources of water resources, are obliged to protect cross-border waters from possible damage and to implement the provisions of this law. 4. Relevant entities, that seek to exercise projects and activities in cross-border waters, must be provided with an environmental permit and for this, they must prepare an in-depth report on the impact on the aquatic environment.

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Measures for the protection of transboundary waters

The Ministry, in cooperation with the relevant ministries, organizes the work for the protection of cross-border waters, controls the implementation of the requirements of this law, and participates in: a) The design and implementation of transboundary water management plans; b) Design and implementation of special monitoring programs; c) Drafting and implementation of plans for the rehabilitation of polluted and damaged areas of cross- border waters; d) Establishment of a modern legal framework for the management and protection of transboundary waters; e) Provision and effective use of necessary financial means; f) Continuous monitoring to ensure the conservation of the natural state of the fauna and flora of transboundary waters.

Administration and management of transboundary waters

1. The ministry manages the cross-border waters based on management plans drafted by the Technical Secretariat of the National Water Council. 2. Management plans for transboundary waters include: a) Design and implementation of these plans; b) Objectives of transboundary water management; c) Identifying the duties of various state bodies, study institutions, environmental organizations in the management and protection of transboundary waters; d) Measures to eliminate or reduce the identified threats; e) Conditions for scientific research, inventory and monitoring; f) Other special conditions.

Inspection and ascertainment of administrative violation

1. The National Construction and Urban Planning Inspectorate inspects to verify the observance of the legal requirements, under this law and with the law no. 10 433, dated 16.6.2011 "On inspection in the Republic of Albania." 2. When the inspector of the inspectorate covering the field of environmental protection considers a violation of the provisions of this law, he/she applies a fine as the primary penalty, as well as other supplementary penalties. Policies are the highest level of planning and integrated management of water resources, the documents of which contain: a) The purpose of planning and development of water resources management, in harmony with the economic, demographic, social, environmental, cultural, and historical development; b) Implementing measures; c) The work plan and the necessary budget for its implementation.

4.2 National Water Resources Management Strategy 2017-2027

1. The National Water Resources Management Strategy is a long-term strategic document that outlines the state policy vision, mission, goals, and objectives in the field of integrated management of water.

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2. The National Strategy for Water Resources Management is based on scientific research, constant analysis of water-related circumstances and phenomena related, considering particular water problems, and integrated environmental protection in each water basin.

3. The National Water Resources Management Strategy serves as a basis for the implementation of plans and other strategic documents in the fields of territorial planning, environmental conservation, biological diversity and landscape, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, transportation, tourism, public health, among other things.

The NWRM Strategy sets out 5 Strategic Objectives that require special attention:

Water quantity: ensuring fair and sustainable use of all water resources that serves all interests, through the application of national legal acts and sub-acts, which transpose applicable EU directives.

Water quality: ensuring a good quality of water from all water sources, reaching the "good water status" by 2027, through the application of national acts and sub-legal acts that transpose the applicable EU directives.

Water risks: reduction of water risks (floods and droughts) through management and investments that benefit all stakeholders, as well as through the application of national legal acts and sub-acts that transpose applicable EU directives.

Water information: providing widely recognized models and data on water and climate to all stakeholders, as well as advising the government on water policy decisions based on the respective institutions that own these data.

Water management: water management that is sustainable and holistic, meeting all needs by ensuring equitable socio-economic gains from water usage and participation in decision-making for future generations, following the principles of environmental and water policies of IWRM and EU.

The National Water Resources Management Strategy is reviewed every 15 years. The strategy can be revised and updated well before the deadline if changes in the water system and economic and social developments of the country dictate it.

4.3 National Strategy of Water Supply and Sewerage Sector, 2020-2030

The Government of Albania prioritizes the provision of reliable water supply and sewerage services, managed efficiently and safely, and it plans to provide the necessary support for sustainable national development, raising living standards and the well-being of the population, as well as substantially improving health. Government reforms are aimed at improving the provision of water supply and sewerage services, which will help in poverty reduction and lead to economic growth and sustainability.

This Sector Strategy for Water/Sewerage Services for the period 2020-2030 has been prepared to present Albania's Vision, Mission, Policy Goals, and Action Plans in a straightforward, precise, quantitative and timely manner, in line with our country's commitments to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Council of Ministers will review this Water Supply and Sewerage Sector Strategy in order to coordinate the WSS sector's key objectives and priorities in the Republic of Albania, as well as draft proposals for policy execution and funding, to accomplish these objectives during the Strategy's 11-year term. The strategy incorporates the findings of the Inter- Ministerial Working Group Consultations and relevant analyzes, including a detailed assessment of the

SOLID WASTE MAPPING IN KUKES’ RIVERS 13 current situation, the legal and regulatory framework, proposed public spending, and funding sources for the water sector. As a co-sponsoring country of the United Nations Resolution to make "Safe Drinking Water and Sewerage Access a human right,” the Republic of Albania is committed to demonstrating, by words and actions, that a small and a developing country can respond to a global problem. It demonstrates it by doing what is necessary to ensure equality for all citizens, in terms of human rights regarding drinking water and sanitation.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) era is changing, with 17 aspiration goals, 169 outcomes and 232 indicators targeted at global change over the next 12 years. There is a specific objective for water and sewerage, that goes beyond the provision of water supply and sewerage services and includes wastewater management, environmental water quality, water efficiency, integrated water resources management, and conservation of aquatic ecosystems as important indicators. The Sustainable Development Goals form a holistic structure that necessitates a systematic approach with sufficient capacity and which guarantees the possibility of a secure return on investment. Ensuring the provision of safe and affordable drinking water service for all by 2030, requires major investments in infrastructure, provision of sanitary services and maintenance of hygiene at all levels. Protecting and regenerating water-related ecosystems such as forests, mountains, water parks, and rivers is essential if we are to avoid water scarcity. More cooperation that is international is needed to encourage water efficiency and the implementation of treatment technologies in developing countries. The Government of Albania recognizes that it is responsible for the protection of its natural resources, which are a valuable national asset. Given this, the strategy seeks to lead to the conservation and management of these natural resources not only for today but for future generations as well. Therefore, this strategy is a significant move forward and its implementation would help meet the promise of providing safe drinking water and sewerage for everyone in the future.

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5. LOCAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

The legal basis for water protection and regulation in Albania is quite rich at the national level, but this does not translate to many competencies at the local level. Municipalities do not have legislation and regulations at the local level, although water protection and regulation can be found in certain articles within some other regulations, which are mostly concerned with environmental protection in general.

5.1 General local plan of Kukes municipality (Territorial strategy).

Municipalities implement local environmental action plans (LAPs) and environmental protection programs. The public, NGOs, professional organizations, and the business community are constantly encouraged to participate in the design of the LAPs and programs. Municipalities report to the Ministry on the implementation of these plans and programs.

To reduce the negative impact on the environment and in some cases to reduce costs, two or more municipalities can develop and approve their plans and programs together. Following Article 14 of the Law on Water, some responsibilities for the implementation of water policy have been delegated to municipalities. These responsibilities, in particular, relate to the issuance of licenses, to implement bylaws on water licenses.

Municipalities should also be responsible for other specific tasks identified by law, in particular: Construction of water facilities (Article 40), Flood protection (Article 46), Protection from harmful water actions (Article 47), Protection of the water bed (article 49), Erosion protection (article 51), Regulation of rivers, streams and springs (article 55), Notification to the Ministry in case of danger from water (article 57), Designation of bathing areas (article 68 ), and Issuance of water permits (Article 72).

Municipalities are also responsible for inspection activities by environmental inspectors, who are usually employed within the Department of Urban Planning, Cadastre and Environment (DUPCE) or within the Department for Inspection (DI), following the internal organization approved by each municipality.

5.2 Integrated waste management plan, Municipality of Kukes 2016 - 2020

IWMP for the Municipality of Kukes determines how the waste management function can be carried out and extended in this municipality. IWMP provides widely accepted local solutions as well as an approved operating framework, through which decisions can be made on the infrastructure needed to implement the best environmental practices. The plan encourages greater cooperation from all stakeholders and provides a strategic perspective of waste management, stressing the expansion of the service area, the increasing volume of waste, and the necessary facilities for waste management. Besides, the plan includes:

 Effective procedures for the separate collection, selection for recycling, composting and reuse, reduction and transport of waste;  An inventory of existing landfills, their condition, and rehabilitation plans;  Steps needed to raise public awareness of the damage caused by landfills.

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The Integrated Waste Management Plan was presented in advance and has been the focus of discussions with officials from the administrative units. It has been approved by the Municipal Council, and, if necessary, will be approved by other instances at the county level.

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6. WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF KUKES

6.1 Information on water management in the municipality of Kukes

The territory of the municipality of Kukes includes various water resources that are vital to the population's drinking water supply. After Shkodra, Kukes has the second-highest water reserves in Albania. Kukes district's water sources are reflected by surface and groundwater, which are plentiful and inexhaustible. The hydrography of the Kukes district is defined by the lower reaches of the Drini i Zi and Drini i Bardhe, as well as their tributaries, such as the Luma and Bushtrica, numerous streams and a large number of underground springs, mainly karst springs. Groundwater for drinking and irrigation has been discovered in the villages of , Kam, and others. The water streams of Drini i Zi and Drini i Bardhe are created by rainfall that falls in their basins, with Drini i Zi being fed directly by Lake .

Kukes district has a lot of groundwater potential, especially karst springs.

Fierza Reservoir- The artificial lake of Fierza, located in the Municipality of Kukes, is one of the largest artificial in the country, having been built in 1978 by the rivers Drini i Bardhe, Drini i Zi, and the river Buna. The lake consists of 40 bays and has a length of 70 km and a maximum area of 7 thousand hectares, of which 5 thousand hectares are used for the growth and cultivation of 8169 ha of fish. This lake has a height of 167 meters, a water mirror surface of 72.5 km, a maximum depth of 128 meters, and a volume of 2.7 billion cubic meters of water. The total area of the watershed is 11,829 km². The maximum water capacity that Lake Fierza can hold is about 3.2 billion cubic meters of water, while the minimum capacity, which can cause a critical situation of electricity production, is about 1.2 billion cubic meters of water.

Drini i Zi - originates at an altitude of 695 km from , and it emerges at an altitude of 476m from the territory of Northern Macedonia near the city of Dibra. In general, the river is 149km long, and 53 km long within Northern Macedonia. The numerous bridges that connect the two banks of the Drini i Zi give the epithet "City of Bridges." The river flows north towards the city of Dibra in a mountainous area, where it then marks a part of the border between Northern Macedonia and Albania, before crossing into the territory of Albania. The flow of the river is blocked in Northern Macedonia by two artificial reservoirs (Diber and Glloboçice), which help to produce electricity. Near the city of Kukes, the Drini i Zi joins the Drini i Bardhe to form the unified Drini River, which flows into the .

Drini i Bardhe - is a river that flows through the western part of Kosovo, namely the Dukagjini Plain. The Drini originates at the foot of the Rusolia mountain from the well of the Radac cave, at 586m above sea level, where it makes a spectacular waterfall, before descending to the plain and joining The near the city of Kukes to form the unified Drini, which in antiquity was known as Drillon. The amount of the spring reaches 30 m3 per second, where it also creates a 30 m high waterfall. The surface of the Drini i Bardhe river in Kosovo is 4265 km2. It has a Mediterranean regime, with a maximum in March and November, and a minimum in May and September. In the territory of Kosovo, the Drini meanders for 122 km in a north-south direction. Drini also collects with itself the waters of Lumbardh of Peja, , and Lumbardh of Prizren. With a size of 4,646 km², the Drini Basin is the largest of the four watersheds of Kosovo.

Lume River - is a river in Kukes, which originates in the Kallabak Plateau. The river has carved a deep gorge between Koritnikand Gjallica mountains, creating the Vana Gorge. The Luma once joined the Drini i Bardhe north of Kukes, but now flows directly into the Fierza Lake. Since 2015, this river has

SOLID WASTE MAPPING IN KUKES’ RIVERS 17 been completely enclosed in concrete pipes and channels, passing in 8 HPPs, from above in Bele to Lake Fierza. The aquatic fauna of the river is believed to have vanished as a result of the river's entrance into the pipes.

Bushtrica River- Hydropower plants, the building of which has become a big trend, despite their negative impact on the environment, are a very troubling phenomenon not only for the rivers of Kukes but also beyond, especially in the region of Albania, which unfortunately is growing. This has also occurred on the Bushtrica River, a tributary of the Drini i Zi river, where many hydropower plants have recently been constructed. Bushtrica originates in the Sharr mountains of Kosovo and flows into the Drini i Zi in the village of .

National Agency for Water Supply-Sewerage and Waste Infrastructure –AKUM

The National Agency for Water Supply-Sewerage and Waste Infrastructure is the only state body specialized in the field of drinking water supply, sewage and white water and their treatment (water infrastructure). It technically supports the policies of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, in compliance with the legislation and government policies outlined in the sector strategies.

AKUM administers in 61 municipalities of the territory of the Republic of Albania. The role of AKUM is to carry out, through its legal and technical authority, the coordination and monitoring of the activity for the provision of water supply, sewage of used water, and its treatment for the entire population of the country, in cooperation with local governments and water infrastructure management entities.

To carry out its mission, AKUM, supports the overall framework of the Ministry's activity, by:

• Drafting the strategic framework for the development and management of the water supply and sewerage sector in Albania; • Proposing the annual investment planning of the State Budget, based on the needs of the Local Government JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Units and submitting it for approval to the Minister of Infrastructure and Energy; • Financing the needs for local expenses, customs fees, and VAT refunds through the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, as well as approved contracts funded by international donors; • Proposing standards and technical specifications for water supply and sewerage and sending them to the relevant bodies for approval; • Drafting and preparing draft laws and bylaws, related to the field of administration and distribution of drinking water, organized disposal and treatment of wastewater; • Organizes and coordinates the work for the identification of new projects in the sector of water infrastructure; • Following the reforms undertaken by the Government to improve the management, operation, and improvement of sector indicators by supporting Local Government Units and water infrastructure management entities; • Preparing documents and tracking the progress of the development of alternative modes of management in the Water Supply and Sewerage sector; • Cooperating with central and local institutions, foreign donors, local or foreign non-governmental associations, interested in the development of the water infrastructure sector; • Cooperating with the Secretariat of the National Water Council and the Water Basin Agencies, for efficient management of water resources especially those used for drinking; • Organizing and directing the investment procurement work (studies, designs, maintenance, rehabilitation, new constructions) in compliance with the existing legislation;

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• Monitoring the progress of projects funded by foreign donors through its project implementation units and by being responsible for their progress. For water infrastructure projects, AKUM agrees with the Directorate of Project Management in the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy; • Promoting and implementing appropriate realistic policies in the water supply and sewerage sector in Albania, through the effective implementation of the monitoring program; • Organizing and leading the collection of data from all water supply and sewerage companies operating in the country; reviewing and evaluating the data regularly; developing concrete criteria for comparative assessment within the sector; and monitoring the progress of analyzed enterprises to enhance their performance, all based on performance indicators; • Cooperating with the Civil Emergencies Sector and institutions interested in the design and implementation of programs for the provision of water infrastructure facilities; • Maintaining and developing relations with international organizations and institutions participating in the water infrastructure sector; • Organizing and guiding the qualification of AKUM staff as well as water supply and sewerage companies through courses and seminars held both within and outside the region; • Following and monitoring the level of water supply service and wastewater disposal by identifying problems, providing solutions, and informing the heads of the Ministry in each situation; • Enabling public awareness campaigns to promote new methods of cooperation with the community, solving the problems of water supply and sewerage companies, such as increasing the level of water payment by consumers, reducing drinking water misuse, etc.; • Following the progress of campaigns organized by enterprises and AKUM.

Drinking Water Production

In the area of Kukes operates the water supply and sewerage company JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Kukes.

JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Kukes, offers the service of drinking water supply and disposal of wastewater (sewage), for the entire population within the jurisdiction of the municipality of Kukes.

JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Kukes uses surface water resources. The company uses these resources to produces an average of 1.6 million m3 of water per year through three free-flow systems. The total volume of water produced is 100% estimated. Water is supplied to residents in certain villages through public taps, making it extremely difficult for these residents to have access to safe drinking water.

Distribution network

JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Kukes manages a water supply network of 150 km in length, of which 35 km is the main network and 115 km the distribution network.

JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Kukes provides drinking water supply for about 45 thousand inhabitants and has 6,021 registered customers, 1,406 of whom are equipped with consumption meters. The company has a regular work program for detecting water losses as well as a formal system for recording costumer feedback.

Wastewater management

JSC Kukes removes polluted waters through a free flow system and a sewerage network of 134 km. The sewerage service is offered to about 22 thousand and 500 inhabitants, registering for this service

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3,799 customers who are only in the city. This service is not provided in the villages, mainly due to the lack of infrastructure.

Employees are employed in the production of drinking water, transmission and water supply to customers, wastewater disposal, or even its treatment. These processes are associated with the consumption of electricity, various materials, and chemicals. To carry out its activities, the Water Supply and Sewerage Company pays taxes and fees to the treasury.

The provision of water supply, sewerage services, and wastewater treatment constantly require maintenance of existing infrastructure as well as new investments for better quality and higher service standards. All these components, when added together, represent what is known as the cost of services. These costs must be recovered by revenues created by the billing of drinking water, wastewater (sewage), and WTP, with the relevant tariffs.

The Water Regulatory Entity has the competence to approve water tariffs for public consumption.

All services can be done through the JSC Water Supply and Sewerage Kukes Web Page https://www.shuk.al/kukes/

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7. CURRENT PROJECTS/ACTIVITIES RELATED TO WATER POLLUTION

”Clean Water Project in Gjakova and Kukes”

The “Clean Water Project in Gjakova and Kukes,” takes place between the Municipality of Gjakova in Kosovo, and the Municipality of Kukes in Albania. This project focuses on the development of local/regional water policies, citizen engagement, and stakeholder involvement, in providing higher water security in the cross-border region. The project will directly contribute to improving river water quality through two major infrastructure investments - one for each side of the border. While the building of the riverbank in Llukac and the development of the wastewater system are planned to take place in Gjakova, in Kukes, the reconstruction of the city's main wastewater collector is expected to take place. This project is implemented by a consortium of non-governmental organizations and local governments, under the direction of SHE-ERA. The project is implemented as part of the 2nd Round of Calls for Project Proposals - IPA Cross-Border Program Albania-Kosovo 2014 - 2020, funded by the European Union and managed by the European Commission Delegation in Albania. It will be implemented over three years and is expected to be completed by December 2022

“Optimization of the water supply of the city of Kukes, Kukes municipality”

AKUM has approved in principle the Project-Implementation “Optimization of the water supply of the city of Kukes, Kukes municipality phase III," with the decision of the Technical Council No. 51 dated 24.11.2020, with a total value of 305,990,108 AL with VAT.

“Study-Designing the organization of water supply of the city of Kukes”

The aim of the project is to improve the supply of drinking water and eliminate abuses with water metering, as currently almost all city buildings have current meters inside their apartments, or are not equipped with such. • Improving the supply of drinking water and eliminating abuses of water metering for the industrial neighborhood of the city, where there are practically no meters and the water is supplied irregularly from the old lines. • Improving the supply of drinking water and eliminating the depreciated lines in the distribution network for one and two-story dwellings in the neighborhood no. 3 of the city of Kukes. • Commissioning of the transmission line from Source no. 3, the line to Depot Uzine, Rexhepaj, Kukes in order to increase water production and improve drinking water supply, especially during summer. • Partial restoration of the transmission line from the Domje source, which is currently threatened by landslides due to the terrain, at a considerable length, which has caused many times the interruption of water supply to the city for an extended period, up to its repair. Reconstruction should be done also along the length of the tunnel, due to its depreciation. Much of this improve the water supply for the city of Kukes. • Improving the water supply for the village of , which currently struggles with a severe shortage water supply.

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• The project should be drafted based on the study conducted by the Water Supply and Sewerage Company of Kukes, Municipality of Kukes, as part of investments to improve the city's water supply.

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8. FINDINGS

8.1. Field observations

During the field research conducted for the identification of illegal landfills in the Municipality of Kukes, the rivers were visited and the landfills that are along the course of those rivers were identified. According to the conclusions of the research, a total of 162 illegal landfills have been identified in the entire territory of the municipality of Kukes.

During the field studies, it was noticed that the river Drini i Bardhe, which flows from Kosovo and joins the Drini i Zi in Kukes, carries with it even more waste than the Drini i Zi! For this reason, the Municipality of Kukes but also associations (particularly those of fishermen) frequently organize cleaning actions, not only along the Drini i Bardhe, from the state border with Kosovo to Kukes, but also after it joins Drini i Zi.

Another concern is the discharge of sewage into the city of Kukes, right at the junction of the two Drin rivers. However, even in other settlements around Kukes, the situation is not any better, and it has been noticed that river beds are the ideal place for wastewater discharge (in the absence of infrastructure or sewerage).

Another cause of further pollution of rivers, of course, is the failure of the responsible authorities to provide waste collection services to all villages, where due to this people dump their waste in rivers, but also streams or canals, no matter how small, and as a result, waste ends up in these rivers during heavy rains.

Drini i Bardhe – despite its comparatively small extension as the only one in the territory of the Republic of Albania or the Municipality of Kukes, poses very big environmental problems for both local authorities and residents. The majority of the waste dumped in the river Drini i Bardhe and its tributaries in the towns and villages of the Dukagjini-Kosovo plain ends up in the territory of the Municipality of Kukes, where locals report that during the spring season (when the water level is higher), there is so much debris on the river surface (especially plastic bottles) that often a large part of the river is covered by it!

Another factor of pollution in Drini i Bardhe is a landfill of the city, which is located very close to the river and, as a result of atmospheric conditions (winds and precipitation), much of the waste then ends up in the river.

During the research for the landfills created in this river, it was noticed that there is less waste in the autumn season, and according to our companion, this is due to a variety of factors:

Over the summer, the water level drops by tens of meters below the level of the river bed (which was evident during the study, when the level had fallen by 25-30 meters), and as a result, part of the waste remains along the river bank for long distances, as evidenced by images and video recordings taken during the research. During the summer, fisheries and environmental associations, as well as the municipality of Kukes, clean the river.

Another thing the field team found was that some of the waste was concentrated in the "river bed alcoves," or areas where there is almost no wind flows.

In Albania, there is a very negative trend in terms of waste treatment by cars, buses, and trucks. During the research, uncontrolled dumping of waste from cars was observed, especially old or broken tires,

SOLID WASTE MAPPING IN KUKES’ RIVERS 23 which in various locations along the Drini i Bardhe bed create not only an unappealing view but also disastrous environmental effects.

It should be mentioned that, in addition to household waste, there is a significant volume of inert waste in various locations along this river. A huge number of fish of various species have now vanished as a result of ongoing contamination, not just from Drini I Bardh but also from other rivers in Kuks.

Drini i Zi - significantly cleaner from waste than Drini i Bardhe, as shown by the clarity or color of the water, is still used for waste disposal in various sections of its flow across the territory of Kukes, which of course ends up with those of Drini I Bardhe in Lake Fierza.

The condition of this river is especially aggravated by the city landfill, located in a place/village called Drinas (or Kolsh as known by the locals), about 150-200 meters above the river bed. Although far from the river, a path has been created that leads to the river bank, through which a large part of the waste ends up in the river due to runoff. Moreover, this place is very close to the bridge that connects the two banks of this river's delta, as well as in front of a section of the national road, from where this pollution can be seen clearly. Also in front of this landfill, near the former Tourism Hotel, there is a recreation path, from where you can easily see this negative phenomenon.

In the village of Kolesjan there is a canal or stream (although it is relatively far and above the Drini i Zi river bed) into which the locals constantly throw garbage, which all ends up in the Drini i Zi during heavy rains. The Drini i Zi, like the other rivers of this report, shows the careless behavior of people, especially by the dumping of waste, where construction materials or inert waste are disposed of in various sections.

Luma River- After enclosing the river into the pipes for the needs of the Bele hydropower plants, a small amount of water remains in the river bed, and sadly, waste is disposed of there as well, especially car tires, which burn there instead of being properly treated, resulting in waste from the burning of those tires ending up back in the river. Worrying is the waste disposed of one of the hydropower plants along the national road bridge. Nearby is also an economic operator who exploits the gravel and research has shown that there is a considerable volume of waste.

During the identification and documentation of illegal landfills, special attention was also given to identifying their composition by type of the materials deposited.

The creation of the map with illegal landfills in the entire territory of the municipality aims to support an effective policy and concrete action plan for their elimination by the competent authorities. Elimination of these landfill sites early as possible helps prevent further pollution caused by them and their negative impact on the environment and public health.

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8.2 Graphic presentation of landfills by size and in percentage

Landfills by Size in Kukes

25% 24%

21% 30%

Small Sized Landfills Medium Sized Landfills Large Sized Landfills Distributed Landfills

8.3 Graphic presentation of landfills by type and in percentage

The Types of Landfills in Kukes

9% Household waste landfill. 1%

2% Construction and demolition waste landfill. Hazardous waste landfill.

27% Bulky waste landfill. 61%

Other waste landfill.

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8.4 Graphic presentation of landfills by type and size and in percentage

DIVISION OF LANDFILLS BASED ON TYPES IN KUKES

Small Medium Large Distributed Total

99

43 35 33 24 15 15 10 12 7 6 9 1 1 1 3 2 2 4 1 1

Household waste Construction and Hazardous waste Bulky waste Other waste landfill. demolition waste landfill. landfill. landfill. landfill.

Figures 2 and 3 visually show the correct location of illegal landfills in the Municipality of Kukes, according to GIS’ size and coordinations

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Link to access the Digital Map of landfills https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1Pnuv5DIdjrBdJveugpz9D2box7Zi9vqh&usp=sharing

Scan QR Code with a mobile phone for easier access to the Digital Map.

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9. CONCLUSIONS

We can draw these conclusions from the field studies conducted in the Kukes region: * The biggest cause of pollution of the Drini i Bardhe river is the waste from the territory of the Republic of Kosovo, especially the Dukagjini plain, which ends up in the municipality of Kukes. This was confirmed by municipal officials, members of civil society and was verified by our team during fieldwork. * The lack of sewerage system throughout the territory and then wastewater treatment is a serious driver of river pollution. * The failure to provide waste collection services to the whole municipality of Kukes is also a significant contributor to river pollution. * Irrigation of agricultural lands is done mainly with polluted waters of these rivers, and domestic animals graze in degraded areas of waste. * Lack of treatment of vehicle tires causes their dumping along the shores and the rivers. This phenomenon has been found in all the researched parts along the river banks. The same thing happens for other car parts, both plastic, and metal. * Both current landfills in the municipality of Kukes cause serious environmental damage because they are located very close to the rivers, resulting in a large volume of waste ending up in the rivers. * Another detrimental phenomenon that aggravates the ecological state of rivers is the non-treatment of inert waste, which people regularly deposit in the river bed or even in the river itself. * Disposal of highly toxic materials such as asbestos has been observed in many locations. * Within the Municipality of Kukes, there is a division of the inspectorate that deals with water protection on its territories, but there is a lack of inspections or, more accurately, the strengthening of state control in preventing the pollution of rivers. * There are cleaning actions by the competent bodies and the civil society, of the rivers up to the lake of Fierza. * During the visits and conversations with the officials of the municipality of Kukes, information was received that work is being done on the construction of a new landfill, with larger capacities and which will be sufficient for the disposal of all waste not only for Kukes but for its entire region. * The Municipality of Kukes does not have a feasibility study for wastewater treatment. * In terms of further preventing river pollution, there is a lack of communication and cooperation among residents, the municipality, and the central level.

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10. RECOMMENDATIONS

To prevent further pollution of rivers and improve their current situation, this report offers several recommendations, which can only be implemented through the cooperation of all actors, including central and local institutions, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and, most importantly, citizens, who can play a major role in improving the current environmental situation, through awareness-raising.  To talk with the Kosovo authorities, regarding the prevention of waste from the territory of Kosovo through Drini i Bardhe.  It is recommended that the municipality of Kukes develop a concrete project as soon as possible to handle wastewater and prevent its drainage into rivers.  To expand the inclusion of all settlements of the municipality of Kukes, in the waste collection system and this way to help prevent waste disposal along rivers.  To provide farmers with a solution for irrigating their agricultural fields with clean or uncontaminated water.  Competent authorities to identify individuals who dump tires and other vehicle parts along rivers and take appropriate measures to prevent and discourage the recurrence of this negative phenomenon.  Since the Municipality of Kukes plans to build a new and larger landfill for waste disposal and given Kukes' geographical position, which is surrounded by hills/mountains, it is recommended that during construction, no dumping or drainage of waste into the river be allowed.  Competent authorities to draft a concrete project regarding the treatment of inert waste, including a method to avoid the disposal of this waste into the rivers.  It is recommended to organize awareness campaigns regarding the damages and consequences of disposing waste into the rivers, in particular the hazardous waste (such as asbestos) and the harmful effects they have on human health.  It is recommended to increase the number of environmental inspections, encouraging greater applicability of the punitive legal provisions to potential polluters.  The Municipality of Kukes and the central level to support initiatives and actions aimed at cleaning and raising awareness of citizens on the importance of preserving rivers.  Accelerate the procedures for establishing a new landfill in the region of Kukes.  Accelerate the process of drafting and approving the project for the water feasibility study.  Strengthen communication between residents, the municipality, and the central level, regarding the prevention of pollution and waste disposal into the river.  A greater harmonization between the central and local levels in the enforcement of water protection law, as well as the decentralization of competencies from the central to the local level, regarding environmental protection.  Kukes local authorities are urged to do more to address the problem of illegal landfills along rivers.  Strengthening the cooperation with environmental associations in terms of environmental protection, especially in terms of logistics.

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 To solve the problem of wastewater treatment and management for the entire city of Kukes, as well as to apply this to all provincial units that are part of the municipality's jurisdiction.  Optimization of water supply for the entire city of Kukes, and distribution in all local units as part of the municipality of Kukes.  Cleaning and rehabilitation of the environment in polluted areas as well as afforestation, environmental interventions with greenery in critical areas of erosion near lake shores, rivers and streams.  Orientations with IPA 4 financing programs, to be mainly for the improvement of wastewater treatment networks with plants. Furthermore, projects for the environment and tourism should be implemented.

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11. REFERENCES

Official Gazette of Albania. Law no. 11.2012 on Integrated Water Resources Management. Available at: https://www.erru.al/doc/Ligj_11.2012_Per_Menaxhimin_e_Integruar_te_Burimeve_Ujore.pdf

Official website of the Prime Minister of Albania, documents. National Water Resources Management Strategy 2017-2027. Available at: http://dokumente.reporter.al/docs/download_document/2769 https://www.erru.al/doc/Strategjia_Kombetare_sektoriale_e_sherbimeve_te_furnizimit_me__uje_d he_kanalizime_2011_-_2017.pdf https://kukesi.gov.al/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Plani-i-Zhvillimit-te-Territorit.pdf https://portavendore.al/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Plani-i-Menaxhimit-te-Mbetjeve-Kukes-2016- 2020.pdf https://sq.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gjeografia_e_Kuk%C3%ABsit https://www.shuk.al/kukes/

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ANNEX 1:

Landfill maps found in the field and tables including geographical coordinates of each landfill, showing the location, coordinates and types of waste.

1.1 Map of all identified landfills

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1.2 Map of small sized landfills

Table of small sized landfills in the Municipality of Kukes

No Address/Location Coordinate X Coordinate Y Type of waste 1 Kolejsan 20.40508461 41.97067261 Household waste landfill 2 Near Luma 20.45260429 42.07548141 Household waste landfill 3 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36577606 42.09579468 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 4 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36453247 42.07304001 waste landfill. 5 Near the village of Kolsh 20.35116768 42.09388351 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 6 Near the Leshnica stream 20.35897636 42.07184982 waste landfill. 7 Near the hill of the river 20.44075012 42.07926178 Other waste landfill 8 Near Rafaelo Restaurant 20.47537994 42.11738968 Household waste landfill 9 Near the village of Kolsh 20.34733772 42.0945015 Household waste landfill 10 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36733627 42.09590149 Household waste landfill 11 Near Bardhoc village 20.480793 42.12015533 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 12 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36642075 42.07612991 waste landfill. 13 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36711884 42.0765686 Household waste landfill 14 Near Luma 20.44895554 42.07149124 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 15 Near Bela’s Family House 20.35206223 42.09713364 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 16 Near Bardhoc village 20.47820473 42.11920166 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 17 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36538124 42.08317566 waste landfill. 18 Kolesjan 20.40574074 41.96941757 Household waste landfill

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19 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36712646 42.07659531 Household waste landfill 20 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36662865 42.09414673 Household waste landfill 21 Near Bardhoc village 20.47777557 42.11878586 Household waste landfill 22 Near Luma 20.44639778 42.07276917 Household waste landfill 23 Kolesjan 20.40520477 41.9704895 Household waste landfill 24 20.41639137 42.00100327 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 25 Near Bardhoc village 20.48362732 42.12312317 waste landfill. 26 Near Perbreg village 20.45000648 42.07766342 Other waste landfill Near the New Bardhoc 27 20.49230766 42.13012314 Household waste landfill village 28 Near the hill of the river 20.43961143 42.07832718 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 29 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36575699 42.07457352 waste landfill. Near the New Bardhoc 30 20.48946571 42.12818146 Household waste landfill village Near the New Bardhoc 31 20.48944473 42.12885666 Other waste landfill village 32 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36383438 42.08204651 Hazardous waste landfill Construction and demolition 33 Near Bela’s Family House 20.35998154 42.09865189 waste landfill. 34 Kolesjan 20.40498543 41.9709549 Other waste landfill Construction and demolition 35 Near the Leshnica stream 20.36657524 42.07624435 waste landfill. 36 Near Luma 20.44700432 42.07275391 Household waste landfill 37 Near the hill of the river 20.44197655 42.07675934 Household waste landfill 38 Near the village of Kolsh 20.35219002 42.09352112 Household waste landfill 39 Kolesjan 20.40480614 41.97112274 Household waste landfill

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1.3 Map of medium sized landfills

Table of medium sized landfills in the Municipality of Kukes

No Address/Location Coordinate X Coordinate Y Type of waste

1 Near the village of Bushat 20.40243149 42.01738358 Hazardous waste landfill 2 Near Luma 20.45021057 42.07076263 Other waste landfill Near the outflow of 3 20.36356926 41.93546295 Household waste landfill Bushtrice in Drin Near the New Bardhoc Construction and demolition 4 20.49196815 42.12536621 village waste landfill. 5 Near Luma 20.45208359 42.07640839 Household waste landfill 6 Near the village of Domaj 20.49518967 42.13203049 Household waste landfill Near the New Bardhoc 7 20.4905014 42.12638092 Household waste landfill village Near the New Bardhoc Construction and demolition 8 20.4907074 42.12551498 village waste landfill. 9 Near Bardhoc village 20.47552681 42.11582184 Household waste landfill 10 Near the village of Bushat 20.40302658 42.01726532 Household waste landfill 11 Street Hasan Prishtina 20.41075706 42.09014511 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 12 Near the village of Domaj 20.49546242 42.13169098 waste landfill. Near the New Bardhoc 13 20.487257 42.12669373 Household waste landfill village Construction and demolition 14 Near Bicaj 20.4214325 41.99251556 waste landfill. 15 Near Luma 20.45409203 42.07403183 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 16 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44086838 42.07654572 waste landfill.

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Construction and demolition 17 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44082832 42.0766983 waste landfill. 18 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44147682 42.07648468 Household waste landfill 19 Near Hasan Hallaci School 20.45064735 42.07723618 Household waste landfill 20 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36589622 42.09185791 Household waste landfill Near the New Bardhoc 21 20.49020767 42.12707138 Household waste landfill village 22 Near Bardhoc village 20.47974777 42.12034988 Household waste landfill 23 Near Luma 20.45301437 42.07289505 Household waste landfill 24 Near the Island of Kukes 20.3657341 42.09468079 Household waste landfill Near the outflow of Construction and demolition 25 20.36607361 41.92897415 Bushtrice in Drin waste landfill. 26 Near the village of Bushat 20.39026451 42.01552582 Household waste landfill 27 Kukes-Gostil 20.41953087 42.06430054 Household waste landfill 28 Near Luma 20.45276451 42.07444763 Household waste landfill 29 Near Kolesjan village 20.39190865 41.9632225 Household waste landfill 30 Near Luma 20.45170593 42.07616806 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 31 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44063187 42.07709503 waste landfill. 32 Near Luma 20.45155334 42.07636642 Household waste landfill 33 Kukes-Gostil 20.41927338 42.06363678 Household waste landfill 34 Near Luma 20.45048332 42.07076645 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 35 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36412239 42.09992599 waste landfill. 36 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36582947 42.09228897 Household waste landfill 37 Near the Copper Mine 20.46614456 42.06642914 Household waste landfill 38 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44193077 42.07659531 Household waste landfill 39 Near Luma 20.45282936 42.07530212 Household waste landfill 40 Near Bardhoc village 20.47896194 42.11833191 Household waste landfill Near the outflow of 41 20.36208725 41.93825912 Household waste landfill Bushtrice in Drin 42 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36651993 42.09432983 Household waste landfill 43 Near Hasan Hallaci School 20.44864464 42.07932663 Household waste landfill 44 Near the village of Bushat 20.39166641 42.01521683 Household waste landfill Construction and demolition 45 Near Kolesjan village 20.37968636 41.95512009 waste landfill. Near the New Bardhoc Construction and demolition 46 20.4914856 42.12498093 village waste landfill. 47 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36591911 42.08955002 Household waste landfill 48 Near Hasan Hallaci School 20.44868851 42.07909775 Household waste landfill Near the outflow of Construction and demolition 49 20.35646629 41.92702103 Bushtrice in Drin waste landfill.

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1.4 Map of large sized landfills

Table of large sized landfills in the Municipality of Kukes

No Address/Location Coordinate X Coordinate Y Type of waste Near the Hydropower Plant 1 20.45791054 42.06889725 Other waste landfill. - Lume Near the Bridge on Nation Construction and demolition 2 20.46453285 42.06835175 Road waste landfill. Near the Hydropower Plant 3 20.4617939 42.0676918 Other waste landfill. - Lume 4 Lume 20.44920349 42.07168198 Household waste landfill. Near the Bridge on Nation Construction and demolition 5 20.46311569 42.06866074 Road waste landfill. Construction and demolition 6 Lume 20.45569611 42.0700798 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 7 Lume 20.45304298 42.07040024 waste landfill. 8 Kukes-Belje 20.48317337 42.0693512 Hazardous waste landfill Construction and demolition 9 Lume 20.45630455 42.06953812 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 10 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36553001 42.09046555 waste landfill. 11 Lume 20.4481945 42.07375336 Bulky waste landfill Near the Bridge on Nation Construction and demolition 12 20.46291733 42.06757736 Road waste landfill. Near the Hydropower Plant 13 20.46150208 42.06751633 Other waste landfill. - Lume Construction and demolition 14 Unnamed Road 20.44715691 42.07292557 waste landfill. 15 Near the bridge of Drini i Zi 20.40633202 42.07407761 Bulky waste landfill

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Construction and demolition 16 Near the village of Bushat 20.40657425 42.01582718 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 17 Lume 20.45575333 42.07060242 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 18 Near the village of Gjegjan 20.47745895 42.09990692 waste landfill. 19 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36576462 42.09345627 Other waste landfill. 20 Lume 20.45562744 42.07326126 Household waste landfill. 21 Landfill of the City of Kukes 20.39948273 42.07041931 Household waste landfill. Near the Bridge on Nation 22 20.46040535 42.06769562 Other waste landfill. Road 23 Landfill of the City of Kukes 20.4007473 42.07030106 Household waste landfill. Near the outflow of Construction and demolition 24 20.35450363 41.92387772 Bushtrice in Drin waste landfill. Construction and demolition 25 Near the village of Gjegjan 20.4762001 42.09936523 waste landfill. 26 Landfill of the City of Kukes 20.40175056 42.07015228 Household waste landfill. Near the Bridge on Nation 27 20.46092987 42.06746674 Other waste landfill. Road Construction and demolition 28 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36591911 42.09447861 waste landfill. Construction and demolition 29 Near the village of Gjegjan 20.47383499 42.09562302 waste landfill. 30 Lume 20.45650673 42.06951523 Other waste landfill. Near the outflow of 31 20.36374092 41.93532562 Household waste landfill. Bushtrice in Drin 32 Landfill of the City of Kukes 20.40825653 42.06869888 Household waste landfill. 33 Lume 20.45602036 42.06887054 Other waste landfill. Near the Hydropower Plant 34 20.45786095 42.06871796 Other waste landfill. - Lume

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1.4 The map of distributed landfills

Table of distributed landfills in the Municipality of Kukes

Address/Location Coordinate X Coordinate Y Type of waste No 1 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44092178 42.07588577 Other waste landfill 2 Lume 20.45157433 42.07121277 Household waste landfill. Near the outflow of Bushtrice 3 20.36175728 41.93420029 Household waste landfill. in Drin 4 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36596298 42.0924263 Household waste landfill. 5 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44242668 42.07466125 Household waste landfill. Construction and demolition 6 Near the village of Bushat 20.40321159 42.01710892 waste landfill. 7 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44288445 42.07460403 Household waste landfill. 8 Kukes 20.4181881 42.06160736 Household waste landfill. 9 Hill- Lume 20.43176651 42.08116913 Household waste landfill. 10 Unnamed Road 20.48628235 42.12374496 Household waste landfill. 11 Unnamed Road 20.44567299 42.07341766 Household waste landfill. 12 Unnamed Road 20.49203491 42.12916946 Household waste landfill. 13 Near the village of Bushat 20.40277672 42.01750183 Household waste landfill. 14 Lume 20.45199203 42.07299805 Household waste landfill. 15 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44121742 42.07530594 Household waste landfill. Construction and demolition 16 Lume 20.45576668 42.07321167 waste landfill. 17 Near the Luma Mosque 20.43911362 42.07587814 Household waste landfill. 18 Street Beselidhja 20.42148781 42.07048798 Household waste landfill. 19 Near the Island of Kukes 20.36501694 42.09413528 Household waste landfill. 20 Street Beselidhja 20.41848755 42.06857681 Household waste landfill. 21 E851 20.45095444 42.07707214 Household waste landfill.

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Construction and demolition 22 Near the village of Gjegjan 20.47745895 42.09990692 waste landfill. 23 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44120598 42.07530594 Household waste landfill. 24 E851 20.47323418 42.09744263 Household waste landfill. 25 Lume 20.45278358 42.07336807 Household waste landfill. 26 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44425392 42.07391357 Household waste landfill. 27 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44333076 42.07405472 Household waste landfill. 28 Near the village of Bushat 20.40291786 42.01710129 Household waste landfill. 29 Unnamed Road 20.44555855 42.07278824 Household waste landfill. 30 North of the city of Kukes 20.41064453 42.08770752 Household waste landfill. 31 Hill- Lume 20.43707275 42.0778923 Household waste landfill. 32 Near the Luma Mosque 20.44303513 42.07451248 Household waste landfill. Construction and demolition 33 Kukes - Belje 20.48296356 42.06903839 waste landfill. 34 Street Beselidhja 20.4227829 42.07078934 Household waste landfill. 35 Kukes Peshkopi 20.41794205 42.06144333 Household waste landfill. 36 Lume 20.4515667 42.07143021 Household waste landfill. Construction and demolition 37 Lume 20.4530735 42.07023239 waste landfill. 38 North of the city of Kukes 20.41065216 42.08750534 Household waste landfill. 39 Unnamed Road 20.44543648 42.0729332 Household waste landfill. Construction and demolition 40 E851 20.47469711 42.09815979 waste landfill.

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ANNEX 2: Photos of some illegal landfills from field observations

2.1 Photos of Small Sized Landfills

Landfill 02- Household waste landfill Landfill 07- Other waste landfill (Luma River– Near the hill of the river) (Luma River – Near Luma)

Landfill 12-Construction and demolition waste landfill (Drin River– Near the Leshnica stream)

Landfill 14- Household waste landfill

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2.2 Photos of Medium Sized Landfills

Landfill 10- Household waste landfill Landfill 16- Construction and demolition waste landfill (Luma River – Near the village of Bushat) (Luma River – Near the Luma Mosque)

Landfill 20- Household waste landfill (Drin River – Near the Island of Kukes)

Landfill 38- Household waste landfill (Luma River – Near the Luma Mosque)

2.3 Photos of Large Sized Landfills

Landfill 08- Hazardous waste landfill Landfill 10- Construction and demolition waste landfill (Luma River – Kukes – Belje) (Drin River – Near the Island of Kukes)

Landfill 29 - Construction and demolition waste landfill (Luma River – Near the village of Gjegjan)

Landfill 30- Construction and demolition waste landfill (Luma River – Near Luma)

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2.4 Photos of Distributed Landfills

Landfill 02- Household waste landfill Landfill 25- Construction and demolition waste landfill (Luma River – Near Luma) (Luma River – Near Luma)

Landfill 35- Construction and demolition waste landfill (Drin i Zi River – Kukes Peshkopi)

Landfill 16- Construction and demolition waste landfill (Luma River – Near Luma)

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SOLID WASTE MAPPING IN KUKES’ RIVERS 45

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