The complex operation for the remediation of the lindane contaminated soil in OHIS is progressing well. The selected contractor, the company Polyeco, has cleared the area, installed the necessary equipment and mechanization around the small landfill within the OHIS factory in Skopje and is preparing to erect the airtight negative pressure tent needed for safe implementation of works.
During the visit to OHIS, Deputy Ambassador Geir Håkon Johansen was informed about the technology and the practices for the remediation process. The remediation operation is being implemented in line with the highest international codes and standards, with strong focus on the protection of health of workers and of the nearby residents. Baseline measurements (air sampling) for environmental monitoring purposes at the locations are being frequently done to ensure health standards are being observed as planned. Due to the hazardous nature of the lindane, the preparatory phase of the process is quite extensive, as it needs to provide the foundations for safe and secure excavation of the lindane deposits from the small dumpsite in OHIS.
Through the Nordic Support for Progress of North Macedonia Project, Norway has so far committed around 1,7 million Euros to support the Government of North Macedonia in addressing this issue, which is considered to be one of the most hazardous environmental hotspots in the country.
