Total waste generation

The long-term trend based on the extrapolation of total waste data for Bosnia and Herzegovina shows an increase until 2018 and then a slight decrease until 2022. Waste generation follows trends in economic growth relatively closely. More should be done to prevent the generation of waste.

In 2022, a resident produced an average of 345 kg of municipal waste. Waste collection covers around 74% of the population (80–90% urban; 40–45% rural). With a few exceptions, there is no widespread separate waste collection in the country. The main treatment method is disposal, which is free of charge. An extended producer responsibility scheme has been introduced for packaging and electronic products, and an increase in the recycling rate is evident. In 2021, regulations on the management of waste tires, batteries, vehicles and oils were adopted at the entity level.

The legal framework is guided by the laws on waste management of the political entities and the Brčko District of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Agency for Statistics of Bosnia and Herzegovina, together with the entity statistical offices, continuously improves data collection on waste and circular economy. The implementation of information systems on waste at the entity level has also improved the quantity and quality of data on waste in Bosnia and Herzegovina.