A step toward cleaner, smarter waste management in Montenegro has officially begun with the support of Slovakia. The ReWaste project was launched at a working meeting hosted by Deponija d.o.o. Podgorica.
The ReWaste project aims to modernize the waste systems in Montenegro, reduce environmental impact, and maximize the reuse of waste. This two-year initiative is jointly implemented by UNDP Montenegro and Deponija d.o.o. Podgorica that hosted a working meeting on 4 April 2025 to officially introduce the project.
The meeting was attended by Slovak Ambassador Boris Gandel, State Secretary at the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development Nenad Vitomirović, Deputy Mayor of Podgorica Boris Spalević and UNDP Resident Representative in Montenegro Ekaterina Paniklova with their associates.
Expert Insights to Drive Change
To lay the groundwork for ReWaste, Slovak waste management expert Ivan Peschl visited Podgorica for a three-day assessment. He met with local stakeholders and examinthe current waste infrastructure and operations, focusing on the sanitary landfill managed by Deponija d.o.o. Podgorica.
His findings will form part of an analysis that will guide the development of a more efficient, integrated waste management system that aligns with EU environmental standards and supports Montenegro’s progress under Chapter 27 of the EU accession process.
Goals of the ReWaste Project
Waste management is becoming an increasingly pressing challenge in Montenegro. In response, the project is focused on enhancing the country’s waste management system. Inspired by Slovakia, the initiative aims to integrate the collection, storage and use of municipal waste in the city of Podgorica and its surroundings. The project aims to improve waste collection, increase recycling rates and align national practices with EU environmental standards.
The focus of recycling will be to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and to use it as a new source of raw materials or energy. The project also seeks to promote behavioural change among citizens and businesses.
As part of the Investing in SDGs programme under the Public and Private Finance for Development project, ReWaste reflects the commitment of the Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic (MFSR) and UNDP to integrate private sector engagement into development cooperation.