Vilnius waste system failure raises resident bills and landfill use

An EU‑funded waste‑handling chain built in Vilnius—comprising household sorting, a mechanised biological treatment (MBA) plant and a cogeneration power plant (VKJ)—has collapsed. The MBA cost about €100 million and the cogeneration project was budgeted at €240 million, but delays pushed the total to roughly €350 million. Because the plant was not operating, thousands of tonnes of household waste were diverted to the regional Kazokiškiai landfill, where waste piles are growing.

Residents now face higher waste‑collection charges and heating costs. The city mayor and the environment minister reject responsibility, while critics demand that Ignitis and the VKJ compensate the region for the extra landfill usage and the delayed benefits of the cogeneration plant. The landfill’s future is uncertain as the nearby municipality threatens to halt its operation, leaving the city without a clear disposal solution.