For years, Albania has continued to face the consequences of industrial pollution, which in many areas has left behind large deposits of chemical waste and heavy metals. These wastes continue to pose a serious threat to the environment and human health.
In Elbasan, the most problematic situation is found in the former Metallurgical Complex and in the village of Balëz, where the cement factory once operated.
“Our main problem is the pollution of water and soil. This remains a current issue and measures must be taken in every possible way — not only with Albanian funds, but also by seeking help from abroad. From experience, we know that part of the materials still accumulated in Balëz, at the disposal site, meet technical conditions, but they are located near residential areas — close to the health center and school, separated only by a wall.”
— Ahmet Mehmeti, environmentalist
More than 1.5 million tons of industrial waste continue to sit in the area of the former Metallurgical Complex, polluting the soil, air, and the Shkumbin River for decades.
“The major pollution from heavy metals such as chromium, nickel, lead, copper, and cadmium — these are extremely dangerous metals with serious consequences on human health, causing cancer, tumors, and genetic diseases. A solution must definitely be found. What’s the solution, in your opinion? The solution is detoxification of the site. There are methods where specific plants can be grown to selectively absorb these toxins from the soil. As it stands today, these substances flow through the waters into the Shkumbin River, and from there — since the river is used for irrigation — they end up in fruits and vegetables and return to us through our food, causing serious illnesses. The rate of illness in Elbasan, compared to areas without heavy industry, is about six times higher for cancer diseases.”
— Ahmet Mehmeti, environmentalist
Meanwhile, residents living near the industrial area say that pollution has become part of their daily life, directly affecting their quality of life and health.
“It’s a very big problem. We stay indoors most of the time, sometimes go out, but the smoke and that foul smell — it’s like diesel fuel… Oh God, you can’t even open the windows! We keep them closed; I’ve only opened them a little now. We’re in such a bad situation, but where can we go at this age? Many people complain — all kinds of illnesses, kidney problems, leg pain. It’s not just us elderly; even the young people are getting sick.”
— Vule Kusi, resident near the former Metallurgical Complex
Industrial pollution remains one of the biggest environmental wounds in the country, and finding a solution requires not only institutional will, but also international support for cleaning up the area.
