Vardar pollution: plastic and microplastics seen near Sirichino and Gostivar
Large amounts of waste returned to the Vardar; expert warns microplastics can enter groundwater and pose health risks.
This week large quantities of waste were again observed floating along the Vardar River, repeating incidents seen several times this year and last; the latest deposits were reported near Sirichino in the Tetovo area. This morning, as in April, the Vardar through Gostivar ran for hours with an unrecognisable white colour and opaque water.
“The river does not need people’s waste, it must preserve its natural course. Any action contrary to natural processes will negatively affect the entire population in the future,” warned retired specialist in health ecology, Dr. Ratko Davidovski.
“For example, plastic thrown into the river begins to break down and micro particles reach people through water, food and fish,” he added.
According to the report, “the underground course of the Vardar is twice as wide as on the surface” and microplastics can enter groundwater, with the potential to contaminate wells located beyond the riverbed.
Officials and experts say pollution of the Vardar and any river is not only an environmental problem but also a public health issue. There are documented studies showing polluted rivers can make people sick.
As one of the latest research findings was described: “Едно од последните испитувања покажувадека од 10 случаи на рак на простата, во 9 се најдени значи 90 посто микропластика, меѓутоа засегнато е секое ткиво, отпрво од кожата. Иритација на кожата.”
Dr. Davidovski also reminded that improper damage to river waters threatens local flora and fauna. Observers say the recurring waste slicks this year and last underline the need for continued monitoring and measures to prevent further contamination along the Vardar.
Photo: press material from the event
