Cyprus is expanding its network of legal waste disposal sites to address the proliferation of over 1,000 illegal dumping grounds that pose fire hazards across the island.
The “Green Points” facilities allow residents to dispose of household waste free of charge, accepting items ranging from garden trimmings and old furniture to washing machines, refrigerators, computers, plastics, shower units, construction debris, metals and glass.
Constantinos Yiorkadjis president of the Nicosia District Local Government Organisation (EOA), said eight Green Points currently operate in the Nicosia province, located in Strovolos, Alambra, Kokkinotrimithia, Ergates, Malounta, Astromeritis, Peristerona and Linou.
Plans are underway for five additional sites in Geri, Lakatamia, Aglantzia, Engomi and Pyrgos, with the Alambra facility set for expansion to include material shredding capabilities.
Garden trimmings account for 55% of waste received at Green Points, followed by bulky waste and electrical and electronic equipment, Yiorkadjis said.
The facilities have introduced two shredding machines covering the Nicosia district, with processed green waste offered to farmers as soil improvement material.
“This approach will solve the pruning waste problem in Nicosia province,” Yiorkadjis said.
The Green Points currently operate under the Nicosia Development Company (ANEL) but will transfer to direct EOA management once the organisation is fully staffed, he added.
“As EOA, we are building the structure; as you know, its approval had been delayed. Once the organisation is staffed, the Green Points will operate under our own structure,” Yiorkadjis said.
Despite the accessibility of legal disposal sites, many residents continue dumping waste illegally, often travelling greater distances than to reach Green Points whilst risking detection and penalties.
A visit to the Strovolos Green Point near Leroy Merlin revealed the operational process as residents arrived to dispose of various materials. The reception staff member was courteous but firm when certain materials were not accepted, with no room for negotiation.
The reception employee guides drivers to the exact location where they can deposit their materials. Citizens are responsible for unloading the materials they transport and depositing them at the designated spots indicated by staff.
The network aims to reduce uncontrolled waste abandonment whilst protecting the environment.
Materials collected at Green Points are transported to specialised management facilities, reducing environmental impact, visual pollution and fire risks associated with illegal dumping sites.
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