Air pollution no longer elevated at Kazokiškės landfill, environmental agency reports

The Lithuanian Environmental Protection Agency (AAD) has confirmed that hydrogen sulfide levels at the Kazokiškės landfill have not exceeded normal limits since April 20, following weeks of elevated pollution readings.

According to an AAD statement, no increased concentrations of hydrogen sulfide have been detected at the site since April 20–29. The improvement follows a mandatory directive issued by the agency on March 12, ordering the Vilnius Region Waste Management Centre to halt excessive hydrogen sulfide emissions.

Acting AAD Director Eglė Paužuolienė stated that the situation at the landfill has stabilised and remains under close supervision. “Work to cover the recultivated waste piles is nearly complete, and further measures will address factors that may have contributed to the pollution surge,” she said.

Officials report that unused sections of the landfill are now fully covered with sand, while approximately 70% of the active waste mound has been sealed with a protective membrane. Full coverage is expected by May 11.

To mitigate odours, additional measures—including twice-daily probiotic sprays and, if necessary, water misting systems—are being applied in the operational area. Infrastructure for leachate collection and treatment is also being repurposed: one storage basin has been emptied, and a second is being drained to convert them into emergency reservoirs.

The pollution concerns began after community reports in February and March prompted mobile air-quality monitoring by the Environmental Protection Agency. Measurements confirmed elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, leading to the AAD’s enforcement order. The Elektrėnai district declared an emergency on March 24 due to the pollution, and authorities later decided to cover 14,000 tonnes of semi-combusted waste linked to a fire at the Energesman waste processing plant.

Environment Minister Kastytis Žuromskas previously stated that relocating the landfill was not under consideration, with efforts focused on identifying and eliminating the pollution source.