The landfill, located just outside Yerevan, was never designed to meet technical, environmental, or sanitary standards.
It’s simply a dumping ground for all types of waste, including highly toxic substances like electronics, industrial chemicals, plastics, rubber, asbestos and much more.
Self-combustion occurs frequently, filling the air with toxic chemicals, including dioxins, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, phthalates, VOCs, heavy metals and other cancer-causing pollutants.
These substances travel far, impacting Armenia’s air quality and the health of its residents.This cocktail of pollutants contributes to severe respiratory illnesses and neurological damage.
This includes known carcinogens, like asbestos, which are dumped without any precautions and release microscopic fibers into the air, causing deadly diseases like lung cancer and asbestosis. It also contaminates soil and water, harming Armenia’s ecosystems and food supply.
The health cost:
Armenia already suffers from some of the world’s highest air pollution-related health damage, costing up to 10.6% of GDP annually.
Families living near Sovetashen face disproportionate health risks, with increased rates of cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular problems.
What needs to happen:
Implement proper management for toxic materials with strict oversight and disposal protocols.
Invest in recycling programs, modern incineration technology, and landfill upgrades.
Educate communities on the dangers of improper waste handling and advocate for stronger regulations.
It’s time to act. Armenia’s air quality—and the health of its people—cannot afford further neglect.
What can you do?
Share this post to raise awareness.
Drop your plastic, electronics, batteries and other specific types of waste at designated areas if possible.
Advocate for stricter waste management policies.
