Because community members were concerned about the environmental impact in the neighborhood of Kutaisi Metallurgical Works, Spectri reviewed the original Environmental Assessment report and pointed out problems found in it compared to actual conditions. A soil sample analysis from the area was collected and analyzed, showing high levels of pollutants.
A citizens group was formed and trained to collect data and photos about emissions, independently advocate for their concerns, and monitor decisions made by the relevant authorities.
The reports and advocacy served to inform the public and the Ministry of the Environment about existing problems. As a result, the Ministry gave the owners a period of time to improve the facility; however, as they were unable to comply, they were forced to close because of poor labor working conditions and lack of emission control equipment.
Other Projects
Small rivers-big problems
funded by EWMI ACCESS, 1/09/2015 - 31/05/2016, USD 14.940
Ecological Knowledge for Journalists
funded by REC Caucasus, 01.11.2001-01.05.2002, USD 4,998
Fostering Waste Management at a Local Level
funded by the US Embassy Democracy Commission, 1.09.2015-30.07.2016, USD 20.757
Inclusion of Society in Environmental Decision-Making and Process-Building Capacity of the Local Government
funded by EWMI-GPAC, 1.08.2012-31.07.2013, USD 27.688
Students for Energy Efficiency
funded by USAID ECI, 1.04.2010-20.06.2011, USD 38.000
Improvement of the Waste Management System in Kutaisi
funded by the EU TCAS, 2007, EU 200.000