Laws are the foundation of every functional society. They define rules, set standards, and provide a framework for progress.
But what happens when such laws, no matter how perfectly written, go unenforced?

Not long ago, I participated in a panel on waste management, which brought together experts from various fields, ensuring a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to the topic. Unsurprisingly, given the subject, the discussion was dynamic and intense. Among other things, we examined waste-related laws and their application—or lack thereof—in our country, with this very paradox emerging as a key point of debate.

One of the speakers, a renowned economist and university professor known for his sharp analytical skills, made a striking point:
“Colleagues, where have you ever seen a good law that isn’t enforced?”

The debate hit upon the crux of the matter: no matter how brilliantly conceived, a law remains an abstract idea unless it finds its reflection in reality.

Good on Paper, but What About in Practice?

Waste management laws in Serbia, at first glance, could serve as an example of solid legislation. They are clear, precise, and aligned with European standards. However, when transitioning from theory to practice, problems arise. A lack of inspections (inspectors in the field, as authorities often communicate), inefficient oversight mechanisms, and a general sense of apathy often result in improper waste disposal, threatening ecosystems and public health.

A constant issue is the overwhelming pressure on landfills and the insufficient number of sanitary landfills. Yet what we strive to emphasize—and consider crucial—is that landfills are not the solution. Every ton of organic waste that ends up there represents a missed opportunity.

This waste is not a burden but a valuable resource!

From Problem to Solution – The Potential of Biogas

Biogas plants offer a solution that not only effectively addresses the waste problem but also transforms organic waste into economic value in the form of useful energy—electricity, heat, and biomethane—as well as high-quality fertilizer.

These plants are a true model of circular economy in action, showing how we can reduce waste, generate energy, and contribute to sustainable development. Furthermore, this process produces no other byproducts (apart from high-quality fertilizer), making it a completely closed-loop system.

Unfortunately, despite its logic and sustainability, Serbia’s biogas sector faces significant challenges. While we have an abundance of organic waste, its cost is often prohibitively high, and its availability is limited. Why? Because many waste generators continue to opt for simpler and cheaper solutions. Moreover, a lack of incentives and adequate mechanisms further exacerbates the issue.

Who is to blame? All of us involved in this field. The importance of education on this topic is often underestimated, the efforts of individuals are undervalued, and the initiatives of organizations tirelessly working to improve the situation are frequently ignored. Everyone talks about environmental problems, but when a concrete solution is proposed, silence ensues, as if the responsibility belongs to someone else.

The solution for organic waste exists, but the question remains—why aren’t we implementing it?

How Do European Countries Do It?

At first glance, comparing our country to strong economies like Germany or Norway might seem unfair. However, it is important to note that they too faced similar challenges just a few decades ago. It is wise to learn from others’ examples, and from my personal experience shared with sector colleagues, I can confidently say it is possible to adopt the best European and global practices and adapt them to local conditions.

The decision to model our sector after Europe’s and the world’s leader in biogas, Germany, was ambitious but correct and, in the long run, worthwhile.

When discussing the treatment and management of organic waste, one example applicable to our context comes from Germany, where the Gate-Fee tariff plays a significant role. This tariff obliges waste generators to deliver their waste to authorized facilities, such as biogas plants, and pay for its disposal. This model not only ensures proper waste management but also encourages the development of a circular economy through responsible behavior from all participants in the process.

Thus, waste generators must transport waste to the operator’s gate, where they sign a document proving to authorities that the waste was disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner, rather than dumped in a landfill or river.

Another outstanding example is Denmark, a country half the size of Serbia, which impressively demonstrates how organic waste can be utilized sustainably. By 2030, Denmark plans to meet 100% of its natural gas needs with biomethane. Most organic waste is processed in biogas plants, where it is refined into biomethane and injected into the national gas grid. This way, Denmark is poised to become completely independent of natural gas in the near future. Danish law limits landfill waste, while local authorities actively subsidize farmers and businesses for proper waste management.

Norway, on the other hand, showcases how biogas can contribute to sustainable public transportation. In major cities like Oslo, organic waste is used to produce biogas that powers city buses. This model not only ensures proper waste disposal but also significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions in transportation.

These examples clearly show that sustainable and responsible waste management is not only achievable but also economically viable. By applying similar models and adapting them to local conditions, our country, too, can make significant strides toward sustainable development.

The Challenges of Change and the Cost of Inaction

The easiest thing to say is: “This has been the way for 30, 40, or 50 years, it cannot be solved overnight.” Such a stance might have been reasonable if the problem were not so pressing, but the environmental crisis we are facing leaves no room for delay. If action is not taken, the forecasts will not look good.

All organic waste can be processed in biogas plants, and here we are talking about large quantities, ranging from 30 to 100 tons per day for a 1 MW plant, which is the typical size installed in Serbia.

Three decades ago, we might have afforded to approach this problem half-heartedly. Today, that luxury is no longer an option.

The cost of inaction this time is not just too high, it is a debt future generations will struggle to repay for a long time.