How can we reduce waste in one of Slovenia’s most iconic rivers, where nature conservation, tourism, fishing and the local economy are all intertwined? We sought answers at a discussion entitled ‘Measures to Reduce Waste in the Soča Valley’, which took place yesterday, 22 April 2026, in Tolmin as part of the Soča Trout Festival.
The Water Institute of the Republic of Slovenia (IzVRS) played a key role in the discussion; as a project partner, it is participating in the international TETHYS4ADRION (T4A) project. As part of the project, the Soča River has been selected as one of five pilot rivers in the Adriatic-Ionian region where specific measures to prevent and reduce waste will be implemented.
A representative from IzVRS presented the results of the waste monitoring and highlighted the crucial link between rivers and the sea – waste that remains along or in rivers often ends up in the sea as well. This is precisely why understanding the sources of waste is crucial for developing effective solutions.
The discussion also offered numerous practical insights from various fields. The director of Komunala Tolmin highlighted the challenges posed by increased tourist numbers during the summer months, the Tolmin Fishing Association presented specific challenges related to fishing waste, whilst the Chemical Institute provided a broader regional perspective on waste issues in the Adriatic-Ionian region.
Among the proposed further measures, the following were highlighted:
- – the introduction of dedicated bins for fishing waste,
- – improving infrastructure for the proper disposal of waste at high-pressure locations,
- – reducing the use of single-use products,
- – raising awareness among tourists and other visitors to the river.
The T4A 
project in the Soča Valley is therefore not limited to research and analysis, but is working with local stakeholders to develop concrete measures that can contribute in the long term to a cleaner Soča River and a reduction in pollution of the Adriatic Sea.