Contamination of soil with PCBs, site assessment and industrial zone remediation measures

The project of sampling and assessment of contamination in the Incel industrial zone in Banja Luka aimed to investigate the level of pollution in this area and propose measures for remediation and reduction of risks to human health and the environment. This project was implemented in the period from June 2020 to February 2023, it was financed by the Swedish Development Agency SIDA, while UNDP oversaw implementation.


As part of the project, detailed sampling of soil (surface and deep), underground and surface water, as well as construction materials in and around the Incel industrial zone was carried out. Samples were collected from seven preliminarily identified microsites that were potentially contaminated with
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). After sampling, all collected samples were subjected to laboratory analyzes to determine the level of PCB contamination. These results served as a basis for assessing the risks that pollution can pose to human health, the ecosystem and pollutant migration. In case of the presence of PCBs, a remediation assessment was started for locations that posed a significant risk. Remedial measures were aimed at reducing or eliminating risks to human health and environmental protection.


The expected results of the project included a detailed map of PCBcontamination, as well as specific proposals for remediation measures for threatened locations. By implementing these measures, the project contributed to reducing the risk to the health of the local community and preserving the environment in the Incel industrial zone, ensuring the sustainable development of this area.
This is also the first Remediation project in BIH.