Experts Measure 37,000 Tons of Waste in Gospić
Findings by the Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering Confirm Soil Contamination with Microplastics and Metals, While PFAS Compounds Found in Groundwater. Local Residents Demand Urgent Remediation.
Findings by the Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering Confirm Soil Contamination with Microplastics and Metals, While PFAS Compounds Found in Groundwater. Local Residents Demand Urgent Remediation.
At the site of the former PPK Velebit industrial complex in Gospić, experts have recorded approximately 37,000 tons of mixed waste. The finding was announced by USKOK and reported by Riportal, bringing the illegal dumping affair back into the spotlight.
The site is located on Bilajska Street, where, according to expert analysis, contamination extends far beyond the landfill's perimeter. The impact reaches a zone of roughly 50 to 200 meters from the complex.
Findings by the Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering confirmed soil contamination with microplastics and elevated concentrations of certain metals. In groundwater downstream from the complex, PFAS compounds-so-called "forever chemicals"-were detected.
Experts warn that without remediation, there is a risk of further contamination spreading through groundwater. Thus, the problem is not confined to the plot itself but threatens a wider area.
Materials at the site include residues from the processing of electrical and electronic equipment, plastics, construction and mineral materials, and parts of medical waste. Some analyzed samples exhibited ecotoxic properties.
However, experts did not confirm that all 37,000 tons fall into the hazardous waste category. Net.hr reports the figure of 37,000 tons, while the gallery description mentions 35,000, with the discrepancy likely due to rounding or different reporting stages.
Local residents have long been calling for the removal of waste and transparent information about potential environmental consequences. The case has now reignited strong reactions.
In parallel, a political debate is underway. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković has recently accused parts of the opposition of inciting panic and spreading misinformation, while opposition parties and civic initiatives demand urgent remediation, continuous water monitoring, and accountability for illegal dumping.
While authorities argue over narratives, the burden of 37,000 tons remains on the ground, along with the risk that experts have not denied.
