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500 thresholds with creosote just a few meters from the apartments
Slovenia🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive8/12/2026

500 thresholds with creosote just a few meters from the apartments

The article reports on environmental concerns raised by the organization AAG regarding old creosote-treated wooden sleepers stored temporarily in Črnuče. These sleepers, which were removed during railway track maintenance work, are reportedly located just meters away from residential buildings and are not adequately protected from weather conditions or unauthorized access. The organization highlights that creosote-treated wood can be classified as hazardous waste if it contains harmful substances, and warns of potential contamination risks to soil and human exposure. AAG has reported the issue to relevant authorities and demands urgent inspection, including verification of ownership, proper classification as hazardous waste, legal storage compliance, and assessment of environmental impacts. They also call for full traceability of the hazardous waste throughout its handling and disposal process. Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explains that these sleepers were temporarily deposited on land managed by SŽ–Infrastruktura as part of ongoing track maintenance work. They note that the area is accessible via track vehicles and that further maintenance work is still underway, with additional sleep-

Approximately 500 wooden railway sleepers treated with creosote have been stored near residential buildings in Ljubljana's Črnuči area, according to environmental organization Alpe Adria Green (AAG). These sleepers, which were removed during recent track repairs following the derailment of a passenger train in Ljubljana’s Savska area, are located roughly 15 to 20 meters away from the walls of multi-family homes. According to AAG, the sleepers are stored outdoors and are not adequately protected from weather conditions. Additionally, the site is reportedly not sufficiently secured against unauthorized access. The organization expressed particular concern over the nature of the sleepers, noting that wood treated with creosote can fall under hazardous waste classification if it contains harmful substances or has been contaminated. Creosote, derived from coal tar, contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other dangerous compounds. AAG warned that improper storage could lead to leaching into the soil and emphasized the need for verification regarding potential exposure to emissions and characteristic odors affecting nearby residents. Residents living close to the site have reported experiencing discomfort such as sore throats and difficulty breathing due to the smell emanating from the sleepers. However, AAG cautioned that these symptoms might not necessarily be caused by the stored materials and should be professionally investigated. AAG has reported the situation to the relevant authorities and is demanding urgent inspection oversight. Inspectors are expected to verify several aspects, including the ownership of the sleepers, their proper classification as hazardous waste, the legality of their storage, whether they have caused undue environmental impact, and whether their removal is required. In the case of removal, AAG insists on ensuring full traceability of the hazardous waste, from its pickup and transport to its legal processing or disposal. According to Slovenian Railways (SŽ), the sleepers are old and heavily weathered, having been exposed to weather and other external influences for many decades. They claim that the content of impregnation agents in the wood has significantly decreased over time, thereby reducing their potential environmental impact. Despite this, SŽ stated that they handle such materials responsibly and in accordance with current regulations. The sleepers were temporarily deposited on land managed by SŽ, Infrastructure at a station area accessible directly via rail vehicles used to transport material from the repair site. SŽ noted that the track repairs are not yet completed and will continue intensively after a full closure of the Kamniška railway line on Monday. Additional worn-out sleepers will likely be temporarily deposited at the same location during further work. Once the repairs are finished, all removed sleepers will be handed over to an authorized contractor by the end of autumn for appropriate processing or destruction. SŽ emphasized their awareness of the importance of consistent environmental protection and responsible handling of such materials. They reiterated that the sleepers are old and heavily weathered, having been exposed to weather and other external influences for many years. Over time, the content of impregnation agents in the wood has significantly decreased, thus reducing their potential environmental impact. Regardless of this, SŽ affirmed that they handle such materials responsibly and in compliance with current regulations. AAG has rejected SŽ’s explanation that the content of creosote has decreased due to long-term exposure to weather, stating that the appearance of the wood does not prove its safety. They argue that creosote contains PAHs, some of which are environmentally and health-hazardous. AAG insists that SŽ must provide proof through representative sampling and laboratory analysis if they claim the content of impregnation agents has significantly decreased. They also requested information on whether the sleepers were stored on impermeable ground, whether measures were taken to prevent leaching of hazardous substances, whether they were protected from rain, and whether monitoring of possible contamination of soil and water was conducted. AAG demands representative sampling of the sleepers, analysis of the presence of PAHs, and checks on the condition of the soil and, if necessary, groundwater or surface water around the deposit site. They also require documentation on the quantity of stored material, its legal classification, and the method of future handling. From SŽ, AAG expects data on who the selected contractor is, what permits they hold, where the sleepers will be transported, and how they will be removed or processed. Given that large quantities of old creosoted sleepers are being removed as part of ongoing infrastructure renewal efforts, AAG expects transparency from the railway infrastructure manager regarding the number of such sleepers removed in Slovenia in recent years, who they were given to, and how their final processing or removal was ensured. AAG continues to demand inspection oversight, laboratory analyses, and full traceability of all removed sleepers. Their goal is to ensure verifiable, transparent, and legally compliant handling of material that may contain hazardous substances.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 5 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

7 reports

24ur (POP TV) logo24ur (POP TV)IndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 758/11/2026
500 thresholds with creosote just a few meters from the apartments

The article reports on environmental concerns raised by the organization AAG regarding old creosote-treated wooden sleepers stored temporarily in Črnuče. These sleepers, which were removed during railway track maintenance work, are reportedly located just meters away from residential buildings and are not adequately protected from weather conditions or unauthorized access. The organization highlights that creosote-treated wood can be classified as hazardous waste if it contains harmful substances, and warns of potential contamination risks to soil and human exposure. AAG has reported the issue to relevant authorities and demands urgent inspection, including verification of ownership, proper classification as hazardous waste, legal storage compliance, and assessment of environmental impacts. They also call for full traceability of the hazardous waste throughout its handling and disposal process. Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explains that these sleepers were temporarily deposited on land managed by SŽ–Infrastruktura as part of ongoing track maintenance work. They note that the area is accessible via track vehicles and that further maintenance work is still underway, with additional sleep-

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the environmental concerns raised by AAG and the response from Slovenian Railways (SŽ). It does not take a clear ideological stance but rather provides factual information about the situation, the risks involved, and the actions being taken by both parties.

Why factuality (90): This article presents a clear and detailed account of the situation, including distances from residences, classification of creosote as hazardous waste, and the call for inspection. It aligns closely with other sources and includes specific data such as distances and classifications, supporting the

Why objectivity (75): While informative, the article carries a somewhat urgent and concerned tone, especially when discussing the potential dangers of creosote. This reflects the organization’s stance but remains relatively neutral in its reporting.

Slovenske novice logoSlovenske noviceIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 728/11/2026
Alarm in Negroes, about 500 creosote-impregnated thresholds stored outdoors

An environmental organization called Alpe Adria Green (AAG) has raised concerns about approximately 500 old wooden railway sleepers impregnated with creosote stored outdoors near residential buildings in Črnučah. The organization conducted an inspection on August 7, 2026, at the request of local residents, finding that the sleepers are located about 15–20 meters away from multi-family homes. These sleepers, which contain potentially harmful substances like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are exposed to weather conditions and lack proper protection. AAG is calling for inspections by relevant authorities to determine ownership, origin, quantity, and compliance with regulations. They emphasize that such materials are classified as hazardous waste under official guidelines but stress that this does not yet confirm contamination in this specific case. Local residents report noticeable odors and health issues like eye irritation and headaches during warmer weather, though AAG cautions against directly linking these symptoms to the stored material. The organization demands a comprehensive investigation, including environmental impact assessments and traceability of the material’s

Bias read (Center): The article presents information from an environmental organization raising concerns about potential environmental hazards. It includes quotes from the organization and mentions their calls for regulatory action, but does not exhibit clear bias toward any political side. The content focuses on the ‚

Why factuality (88): The article confirms the presence of 500 creosoted sleepers near residential buildings, mentions the distance, and references official documentation classifying them as hazardous waste. It also highlights the need for inspection and legal compliance, consistent with other articles.

Why objectivity (72): The language used has a slightly alarmist tone, particularly when describing the potential for contamination and the need for professional verification. This reflects the urgency of the situation from AAG’s perspective but may lean toward emotional emphasis.

RTV Slovenija (MMC) logoRTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicProgressiveFactual 85Objective 708/12/2026
The AAG is not satisfied with the explanations regarding the storage of old railway sleepers and requests an inspection

The environmental organization Alpe Adria Green (AAG) has expressed dissatisfaction with explanations provided by SŽ-Infrastruktura regarding the storage of approximately 500 creosote-treated railway sleepers in Črniče, near residential areas. AAG argues that these sleepers, which contain harmful substances like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pose significant environmental and health risks. Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explained that the sleepers were temporarily stored after recent track maintenance work and claimed that their impregnation levels have significantly decreased over time, reducing potential environmental impact. However, AAG insists that appearance alone does not prove safety and demands laboratory analyses to confirm this claim. They also request documentation on storage conditions, legal classification, and future handling of the materials, as well as information on the chosen disposal contractor and compliance procedures.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as an environmental concern primarily driven by AAG, highlighting potential health and ecological risks associated with the storage of creosote-treated sleepers. The emphasis on regulatory compliance and the call for independent verification aligns with progressive or ec

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the concerns raised by AAG regarding the storage of 500 creosoted railway sleepers near residential areas in Črnuče. It provides details from both AAG and SŽ-Infrastruktura, aligning with the cross-source consensus. The mention of potential health risks and the need fo

Why objectivity (70): The tone leans slightly towards advocacy for AAG’s position, using phrases like 'resno okoljsko in potencialno zdravstveno tveganje' and emphasizing the environmental risk. While not overtly biased, it frames the issue through AAG’s perspective.

RTV Slovenija (MMC) logoRTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicProgressiveFactual 50Objective 308/11/2026
500 railway sleepers, covered with creosote, also in Črnuče

In the suburbs of Ljubljana, specifically in Črnučah, approximately 500 railway sleepers treated with creosote have been temporarily stored near residential buildings, raising environmental and health concerns. The environmental organization Alpe Adria Green (AAG) has highlighted the risks associated with these old, creosote-treated wooden sleepers, which could classify as hazardous waste if they contain harmful substances. They warn that improper storage might lead to contamination of soil and air, posing potential dangers to residents. The organization has reported the issue to relevant authorities and demands immediate inspection, proper handling, and legal disposal of the hazardous waste. Meanwhile, Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explained that the sleepers were removed during recent track maintenance work and temporarily stored on-site due to ongoing repairs. They emphasized that the storage area is managed by their infrastructure company and that the site remains accessible for transporting materials related to the repair works.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as an environmental concern primarily driven by the actions of private entities (Slovenian Railways) and highlights the risks posed by industrial practices. While the organization AAG raises valid environmental concerns, the tone leans toward emphasizing regulatory and '

Why factuality (50): Article discusses a completely different topic (railway sleepers coated with creosote) unrelated to the primary source document about cyanobacteria in Lake Velenje. It does not reference or relate to the cyanobacteria issue at all, making it irrelevant to the evaluation.

Why objectivity (30): The tone is alarmist and emotionally charged, focusing on environmental concerns without providing any relevant information about the cyanobacteria situation. The article lacks neutrality and balance.

RTV Slovenija (MMC) logoRTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicProgressiveFactual 0Objective 08/11/2026
500 railway sleepers, coated with uncoated creosote, also in Negroes

In the suburbs of Ljubljana, specifically in Črnučah, approximately 500 railway sleepers treated with creosote have been temporarily stored near residential buildings, raising environmental and health concerns. The environmental organization Alpe Adria Green (AAG) has highlighted the risks associated with these old, creosote-treated wooden sleepers, which could classify as hazardous waste if they contain harmful substances. They warn that improper storage might lead to contamination of soil and air, posing potential dangers to residents. The organization has reported the issue to relevant authorities and demands immediate inspection, proper handling, and legal disposal of the hazardous waste. Meanwhile, Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explained that the sleepers were removed during recent track maintenance work and temporarily stored on land managed by SŽ-Infrastruktura. They emphasized that the storage site is accessible via track vehicles used to transport materials from the repair site and that the track repairs are ongoing.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue through the lens of environmental protection and public health, emphasizing the risks posed by the temporary storage of hazardous materials. While the Slovenian Railways provide technical explanations, the focus remains on the potential harm to communities, aligning more

Why factuality (0): This article again discusses the steel sleeper issue in Črnuče, which is unrelated to the primary source document about beach closures in Izola. It contains no relevant information about the event in question.

Why objectivity (0): The article is completely off-topic and does not offer any objective coverage of the beach closure issue. It is not aligned with the primary source document.

N1 Slovenija logoN1 SlovenijaIndependentCenterFactual 0Objective 08/11/2026
Another case of delayed railway thresholds.

In Ljubljana's Črnuč neighborhood, approximately 500 treated wooden railway sleepers have been temporarily stored near residential buildings, raising concerns among residents due to a strong odor causing respiratory issues. Environmental organization Alpe Adria Green has warned that these sleepers, impregnated with creosote, are classified as hazardous waste and are improperly stored, risking environmental contamination. The organization has reported the issue to local authorities and called for urgent inspections to ensure compliance with regulations regarding hazardous waste storage and disposal. Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explained that the sleepers were temporarily placed on their property during infrastructure repairs and will be removed once the work is completed for proper disposal.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the concerns raised by residents and the environmental organization, as well as the official explanation from Slovenian Railways. It does not favor one side over the other but provides information from multiple perspectives without overtly biased language or selective focus

Why factuality (0): This article discusses a completely different event (steel sleepers at Črnuče) unrelated to the primary source document about beach closures in Izola. It does not align with the main topic and contains no relevant information.

Why objectivity (0): The article is entirely off-topic and does not address the subject matter of the primary source document. It lacks any objective reporting related to the event described.

Dnevnik logoDnevnikIndependent🔒CenterFactual 0Objective 08/11/2026
In the Black Forest, 500 creosote thresholds near dwellings: a serious health and environmental risk

In the suburbs of Ljubljana's Črnuče, approximately 500 creosote-treated railway sleepers have been temporarily stored near residential buildings, raising serious health and environmental concerns. The Alpe Adria Green (AAG) organization has highlighted the risks associated with these materials, noting they could release harmful substances into the environment if improperly stored. The Slovenian Railways (SŽ) explained that the sleepers were removed during recent track maintenance work and temporarily stored on land managed by SŽ-Infrastruktur. They emphasized that they handle such materials responsibly and in accordance with regulations. However, the AAG has called for urgent inspections and proper disposal procedures, stressing the need for traceability throughout the waste management process.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the issue, citing both the concerns raised by the environmental organization and the explanation provided by the Slovenian Railways. There is no clear ideological leaning in the framing of the story, which focuses on factual information and calls for action

Why factuality (0): This article also discusses the steel sleeper issue in Črnuče, which is unrelated to the primary source document about beach closures in Izola. It contains no relevant information about the event in question.

Why objectivity (0): The article is off-topic and fails to provide any objective coverage of the beach closure situation. It is not aligned with the primary source material.

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