LocationsPresentation of the results of the six-year project “Environmentally Sound Management of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Industrial and Hazardous Waste Sectors in BiH (POPs)”
Six Years of Partnership for a Safer, Healthier Environment in BiH
May 21, 2025
Imrana Kapetanović
A final event was held at the United Nations House in Sarajevo to mark the conclusion of the six-year project “Environmentally Sound Management of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Industrial and Hazardous Waste Sectors in BiH (POPs)”, funded by Sweden and implemented by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in BiH in partnership with authorities at all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The event brought together representatives from government institutions, development partners, the private sector, academia, and civil society to present project results, share lessons learned, and explore the way forward.
Azra Rogović Grubić, Senior Adviser for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of BiH and National Focal Point for the Stockholm Convention on POPs, opened the event by emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships and institutional coordination:
“Over the past six years, we have worked together to align our national systems with international standards, the provisions of multilateral environmental agreements, and EU legislation, to improve chemical safety and protect people and nature. These results are a testament to what effective coordination and joint commitment can achieve.”
Azra Rogović Grubić, Senior Adviser for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of BiH and National Focal Point for the Stockholm Convention on POPs
Imrana Kapetanović
Since 2019, the POPs project has contributed to reducing risks from hazardous chemicals to human health and the environment by strengthening national systems for the sound management of chemicals and waste. The project aligned with international obligations under the Stockholm Convention and introduced innovative solutions through a multi-stakeholder approach.
Eva Smedberg, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden in BiH, emphasized the value of long-term partnerships and the broader impact of the initiative:
“This project successfully reduced environmental and health risks by addressing hazardous pollutants and supporting safer chemical practices. More than results, it built trust, momentum, and collaboration across sectors - a true model of development partnership. Sweden remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path to a greener, more sustainable future.”
Eva Smedberg, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden in BiH
Imrana Kapetanović
Over the course of its implementation, the project made measurable progress in reducing risks to human health and the environment. Key achievements include updating and handing over the national POPs inventory in GIS format; developing remediation plans for two contaminated industrial sites; safely collecting and disposing of over 35 tons of pesticide plastic packaging; procuring more than USD 250,000 in laboratory equipment to enhance POPs monitoring; and supporting 13 industries to adopt green chemistry practices.
Victor Munteanu, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in BiH, highlighted the project’s legacy and its integration into wider environmental initiatives:
“This journey has been defined by strong partnerships, continuous learning, and shared commitment. Together with our national partners, enabled by the financial support from the Government of Sweden, we have achieved significant progress in strengthening the management of chemical pollutants in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Yet, many challenges remain ahead as we continue advancing this work as part of the Green Transition Portfolio.”
Victor Munteanu, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in BiH,
Imrana Kapetanović
As the POPs project concludes on 31 May 2025, its results will continue to inform and inspire integrated environmental solutions under the Green Transition Portfolio - contributing to a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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