Benkovac faces toxic waste crisis after illegal dumping discovery

Investigations by USKOK have revealed the presence of 6,500 tons of hazardous waste at the former Kukalj quarry in Benkovac, Croatia. The waste contains microplastics and heavy metals, including copper, lead, and the highly toxic element antimony. Reports indicate that microplastics have already spread 30 meters beyond the landfill site, posing a potential threat to groundwater.

Local residents have expressed significant concern and distrust regarding the contamination. USKOK investigators suspect an organized scheme involving the illegal importation of ground plastic and mixed waste from Slovenia and Italy, which was then buried or left exposed in various Croatian locations.

In response, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Construction Branko Bačić announced that the government will bypass public procurement to enter into direct contracts for the immediate removal of 650 tons of non-hazardous waste. The government also plans to cover the remaining 33,000 tons of buried waste before the autumn rains to prevent further leaching of toxins into the soil and water supplies.