Waste management in Larissa prefecture, Greece

Abstract

It is the objective of this study to evaluate the management of air waste, wastewater and solid waste in the prefecture of Larissa, Greece. The levels of air pollution in the prefecture are not so high. Nevertheless, examination has showed that the existent atmospheric pollution is mainly attributed to static sources, such as central heating and industry, especially in the city of Larissa. The study of water pollution includes surface and underground water. The surface water pollution is mainly attributed to industrial wastewater. The pollution of Pineios River is characterized by fluctuations. In some areas of the river, especially after the city of Larissa, the levels of pollution are high. Moreover, the waters of Asmaki canal and Karla Lake are so polluted that there is no possibility of finding life in these water bodies. On the other hand, the groundwater pollution is related to the high concentration of nitrates, caused by over-fertilization of farming lands. Sources of soil pollution include domestic solid waste landfills and especially uncontrolled landfills in many areas of the prefecture. The main problem is that some of these landfills are located near rivers or streams, provoking essential pollution. This evidence has showed that one program about the optimal waste management has to be developed in the prefecture in order to protect the renewable natural resources according to the principles of sustainable development.