The World Bank has unveiled the details of an $80 million project aimed at addressing pollution in the Albanian coast and waterways, while promoting a circular approach to environmental protection.
The project, called Clean and Sustainable Environment for a Blue Sea (CARE4BlueSea), will specifically focus on the southern coast and the Vjosa River, which was designated as a National Park in March.
Over the course of six years, the funds will be allocated to various components of the project, aiming to preserve the pristine coastlines, rivers, mountains, protected areas, and cultural heritage of the Ionian coastline and the southern interior, including the Vjosa River.
The Albanian government emphasized the need for public services such as waste management and sewage treatment to maintain the region’s appeal as a tourist destination offering “blue seas” and “clean rivers.”
One aspect of the project will involve adopting an integrated approach to solid waste management investments, considering the principles of the circular economy. This will entail improving municipal-level solid waste management and promoting behavioral changes towards more sustainable practices.
Regarding the Vjosa River, the project aims to reduce the negative impacts of pollution from untreated municipal wastewater, stormwater runoff, and unidentified pollution sources, which pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and the environment.
These interventions align with the Albanian government’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6.3, which focuses on improving water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
The goal is to halve the proportion of untreated wastewater and significantly increase recycling and safe reuse globally by 2030.
All investments will consider the risks associated with climate change to ensure the infrastructure’s resilience to climate-related challenges.
The Vjosa River, renowned as “Europe’s last wild river,” stretches from Greece, through Albania, and into the Ionian Sea. It plays a vital role in supporting flora and fauna species and holds immense value for the local communities along its banks.
After a lengthy international campaign supported by NGOs, the Patagonia brand, and Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio, the Albanian government granted the river the status of a National Park earlier this year.
This designation protects the river from hydropower plants and development, while also outlining a strategy to transform it into a hub for sustainable and community-led tourism.
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