Impact of unauthorized accumulation of MSW near children’s playgrounds on children’s health

Currently, the problem of municipal solid waste has become a pressing concern on a global scale. In Ukraine, the challenge involves not only the disposal and processing of solid waste, but also its accumulation. The present paper reviews the findings of a study on non-compliant sanitary sites for MSW in major cities of Ukraine. The primary focus of the research is on the sites for accumulation of solid waste, which are located near children’s playgrounds. Initially, a comprehensive assessment was performed in consideration of the following indicators: distance to the playground, the presence of green spaces as a protective barrier, the structural integrity of the containers, and the presence of a solid waterproof coating. Subsequent studies were carried out for the analysis of the content of pollutants in the soil cover at the sites that do not meet the standards, and that at the children’s playgrounds. Laboratory studies were carried out through the medium of atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomization. The results of the research reveal that 98% of the container sites fail to meet sanitary standards, with the content of pollutants in the soil exceeding the permissible levels. It is important to incorporate these findings when planning MSW collection sites.