Thousands of tonnes of hazardous waste linger at Lavrio port, sparking environmental concerns
Authorities are facing criticism after dozens of tonnes of dangerous waste have remained at Lavrio harbour for months, raising fears of pollution.
In May, a tugboat struck the ship Makronisos near the island of Makronisos, creating two cracks in its hull and causing a leak of seawater mixed with fuel. The Hellenic Coast Guard secured the spill, and the contaminated liquid was kept on a floating crane for about a month before being transferred to the customs zone of Lavrio port. Twelve fuel-laden pallets were subsequently taken away with the help of a tug, but around 60 pallets containing hazardous waste remain illegally stored at the harbour.
The responsibility for removing this waste lies with the shipowner, yet neither the owner nor port authorities have acted to relocate it, prompting questions about regulatory inaction and potential environmental damage. Photographs show sand surrounding the containers, heightening worries about further contamination of the surrounding area.
Why it matters
Unremoved hazardous waste at a busy port threatens local ecosystems and public health, highlighting gaps in environmental enforcement.
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