VIDEO // OSCE supports elimination of hazardous chemicals and promotes chemical safety in Moldova

The OSCE Mission to the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with the NGO EcoContact, organized a public event yesterday in Chisinau dedicated to the elimination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and the promotion of chemical safety on both banks of the Dniester River. This initiative is part of the joint efforts to protect the environment and build trust between communities.

The event, held in a hybrid format, brought together about 50 participants from government institutions, environmental organizations, civil society representatives, and development partners. Discussions focused on the progress made in managing hazardous chemicals in accordance with the provisions of Stockholm Convention and emphasized the importance of transparent communication and cross-border cooperation.

Participants analyzed Moldova’s regulatory framework regarding the management of PCB-containing waste, as well as the technical steps for collecting, packaging, transporting, and safely disposing of it. International best practices provided by the Basel and Stockholm Conventions were also presented, including cross-border transport and controlled waste incineration in Germany.


"Based on its technical expertise, the OSCE Mission in Moldova continues to contribute to strengthening environmental security and developing safer and more resilient communities on both banks of the Dniester River. Cooperation within this project demonstrates that protecting people and the environment contributes to understanding and building trust between experts and institutions on both banks," said George Sand, Program Manager for Conflict Prevention and Resolution at the OSCE Mission in Moldova.


From May 2024 to January 2025, approximately 265 tons of hazardous chemicals, including highly toxic PCBs, were safely removed from ten depots located on both banks of the Nistru and transported to an authorized hazardous waste incineration facility in Germany. The project, funded by OSCE participating states—including the United States, Germany, Ireland, and Norway—significantly reduced health and environmental risks while strengthening cooperation among experts in the region.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FqSEwwK3-o

During the event, the OSCE Mission in Moldova presented a documentary video and an animated clip illustrating the project's results and the importance of responsible chemical management. These materials are part of the Mission’s public information campaign on chemical safety and environmental protection.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWmwT2A-omI

Cooperation in the field of environmental protection remains an essential component of the OSCE's activities in the Republic of Moldova, contributing to the promotion of security, stability, and trust-building between communities on both banks of the Dniester.