• Compliance with technical requirements is key to preventing the majority of fires, according to an analysis commissioned by Minister Rositsa Karamfilova

An analysis of data from inspections carried out by the Regional Inspectorates for Environment and Water (RIEW) between 2024 and 2026, commissioned by the Minister of Environment and Water Rositsa Karamfilova, reveals a significant number of fires at waste treatment facilities, the recurrence of some of these incidents, and the factors that can be mitigated through strict adherence to technical requirements during their operation.

The analysis focuses on the recurrence of fires - more than one fire has occurred at 12 regional landfills for non-hazardous waste (i.e. more than one incident was recorded at a regional household waste landfill during the period 2024-2026). Four fires were reported at three of these landfills, which is an even more worrying trend.

Among the main factors linked to the occurrence of fires at regional landfills for non-hazardous waste is failure to comply with the technical requirements for their operation. Timely backfilling and regular compaction of the waste are of particular importance. If these activities are carried out inadequately or not in a timely manner, conditions may arise that allow oxygen to reach the waste mass, leading to self-heating processes and subsequent spontaneous combustion.

The analysis highlights the illegal disposal of lithium-ion batteries in household waste bins as a growing risk. If they are mechanically damaged, compressed or short-circuited during collection, transport or treatment, they may trigger a thermal reaction and cause a fire.

Cases have also been identified where fires start outside waste treatment sites and subsequently spread to them. Factors such as human activity, strong winds, dry vegetation, and unkempt surrounding areas contribute to this .

Local authorities, through regional waste management associations and designated operators, are responsible for the lawful operation of the facilities and for ensuring conditions for their safe functioning. Regional household waste landfills are constructed and operated within the framework of the regional waste management systems established by the municipalities in accordance with the Waste Management Act.

The findings of the analysis show that strict compliance with technical requirements during the operation of landfills and waste treatment facilities is a key factor in mitigating the risk of fires, protecting the environment and safeguarding public health.

In this regard, the 15 Regional Inspectorates of Environment and Water have sent letters to all operators of regional landfills for non-hazardous waste and all operators of waste treatment facilities, reminding them to take preventive measures and actions to prevent fires from occurring.

With a view to preventing fires, the regional inspectorates have also issued instructions to mayors of municipalities to carry out inspections and take action to clear unauthorised waste-contaminated sites.