The party accountable for the garbage in Yakutia remains unidentified.

In the heart of Siberia, the city of Yakutsk and four surrounding districts are witnessing a remarkable transformation in their waste management system. This change, which began on January 1, 2019, is a testament to the commitment of the regional operator, "YakutskEcoSeti," and its dedicated team.

At the helm of "YakutskEcoSeti" is Vladimir Sazonov, a leader who has steered the company through challenging beginnings, when the organization lacked the necessary equipment, vehicles, and staff. Today, the company is making significant strides, thanks to the hard work and dedication of its employees.

One such employee is Igor Petrov, a mechanic who has been repairing garbage trucks for five years. Petrov appreciates the excellent work conditions, good salary, and opportunities for career growth at the enterprise. His colleague, Igor Berezovsky, a motorist specializing in engine repair, is also pleased with the good team and management, as well as the availability of necessary parts for repairs.

The waste reform in Yakutia is not just about the collection and disposal of waste; it's also about education and community engagement. Over 800 educational events have been held to help the population adapt to the new system. Children in schools, in particular, are showing a remarkable awareness about waste, a heartening sign for the future.

The new system is equipped with an objective control system, featuring GPS/GLONASS systems on all vehicles and an information-analytical system for real-time tracking of equipment movement. Each crew performs photo-documentation of the work done before and after, with the information uploaded to an electronic platform. This transparency ensures accountability and efficiency.

However, the waste industry is not without its challenges. The working conditions are tough, with a lack of infrastructure for garbage truck operation. Unsanctioned dumps and overflowing waste collection points have been a problem in the past, but since the implementation of the reform, these issues have decreased significantly.

Despite the challenges, the team at "YakutskEcoSeti" remains committed to their mission. Nikita Pivovarov, a worker at the company, finds the work challenging due to the dirt, waste, smell, cold winter temperatures, and potential hazards in courtyards. Yet, he perseveres, knowing that his efforts are contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable Yakutia.

Looking ahead, "YakutskEcoSeti" is involved in recycling, having purchased equipment to produce pedestrian tiles, curbstones, and benches from secondary materials. The company is also organizing the "EcoHackathon-2024" in Yakutsk, where participants will create environmental projects. This event, supported by the "Sinet Spark" regional development charity fund and the Municipal Budgetary Educational Institution "Gymnasium 'Center for Global Education'", promises to be a catalyst for further innovation and progress in waste management.

The tariff for waste removal in Yakutia is set by Yakutia's State Committee on Price Policy at 708 rubles per 1 m³ or 532 rubles per waste bin. However, the problem of illegal activities by "gray carriers" persists, with evasion of contracts, non-fulfillment of terms, and the use of unsanctioned public sanitation points leading to poor-quality, untimely, and essentially illegal services.

Despite these challenges, the waste management reform in Yakutia is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. The future looks bright for this northern city and its surrounding districts, as they continue to strive for a cleaner, greener, and more efficient waste management system.