Public debate on the Draft Law on Packaging and Waste Packaging

On March 18, 2009 USAID Plastic Recycling Project and the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning organized a public debate on the Draft Law on Packaging and Waste Packaging. The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands has supported the public debates and upcoming events focused on the draft law as well, through its MATRA-KAP Program.

The event gathered industry leaders, representatives from 24 units of local governments, public/private utility companies, leadership and members of the Association of Recyclers in Macedonia (PETRA), environmental experts, MAPEK (Association of packing industry), NGO’s,  collectors and recyclers.   

The participants had an opportunity to get acquainted with the achievements of the USAID Plastic Recycling Project: the Draft Law on Packaging and Packaging Waste and time line of activites related to the finalization of legislation; the strategy of Association of Recyclers PETRA; sustainability of waste management; new investments of the PC “Komunalna Higiena”, among other issues.

During the official opening of the debate, participants were greeted by the Minister of Environment and Physical Planning, Dr. Nexati Jakupi; Director of USAID/ Macedonia, Michael Fritz, and H.E. Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Simone Filippini.

Minister Jakupi confirmed once more the preparedness of the Ministry of Environment for opening the process to the public and making improvements to the existing draft that will encompass roles and responsibilities of all involved in the recycling of plastic waste.

“I hope that through our joint activites and public debates as this one, you will be empowered to actively contribute to developing a clear, comprehensive and EU-aligned law on packaging waste. Your commitment to this process is critical as is the Government’s support to laying a strong foundation for environmental conservation and protecting Macedonia’s natural beauty “, said Michel Fritz, Director of USAID/Macedonia.

H.E. Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Simone Filippini reconfirmed support to the process and highlighted that immediate action needs to be taken in order to protect the environment in order for these goals to be achieved.

The program was concluded with visit to the “Greentech” recycling company, Project’s grantee. Through the tour of the company Mr.Latif learned of the company’s capacity and process of recycling the plastic waste. Mihail Matevski, owner of the “Greentech” spoke about progress and challenges that recycling industry is facing in light of the global  crisis.


NOTE TO EDITORS:
The American people, through USAID, have invested nearly $500 million in Macedonia since 1993. USAID is implementing projects that create jobs, reduce corruption, and prepare Macedonian students for the workforce. These initiatives improve the quality of life and support Macedonia’s transition to a stable and prosperous democracy. USAID provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries. For more information please visit http://macedonia.usaid.gov.