This research examines the feasibility of producing alternative fuels (AF), specifically refuse-derived fuel (RDF) and solid recovered fuel (SRF), from waste in Montenegro. It aligns with Montenegro’s commitments under the Sofia Declaration and its EU accession goals related to climate action, sustainable energy, and the green transition.
The study focuses on Podgorica and the central municipalities of Cetinje and Danilovgrad, where recycling is minimal and over 97.5% of waste ends up in the Livade landfill. In the north, improper waste disposal continues in around 150 informal landfills, worsening pollution in rivers and coastal areas.
Municipal waste management systems are underdeveloped, with outdated or missing Waste Management Plans due to legislative delays. While international support enables some separate collection efforts, the absence of domestic recycling facilities results in waste exports to Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Given Montenegro’s reliance on tourism and limited industrial base, domestic use of AF is restricted. However, this research explores opportunities to export AF to industries with high-temperature processes in neighbouring countries. It highlights the potential to reduce landfill dependency, generate passive environmental income, and support local micro-economies, positioning AF production as a practical step toward Montenegro’s green transition.