On October 4, 2024, the inauguration of the first Green Kiosk in Agrokipia took place successfully, led by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Dr. Maria Panayiotou. The Minister explained that this is a modern center aimed at the sorting at source and recycling of dry recyclable waste, such as paper, plastic, metal, textiles, and other special waste streams.

The event was attended by representatives from the Department of Environment, the National Technical University of Athens, the Troodos Development Agency, the Nicosia Development Agency, the Agricultural Research Centre, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the Office of the Environment Commissioner, the Department of Electromechanical Services, as well as representatives from the Nicosia District Organization of Local Authorities, the Union of Communities in Cyprus, the Municipality of Nicosia, and the 11 Communities of the Complex of Communities G’ Nicosia.

The event brought together Members of Parliament for the Nicosia District, representatives of local authorities, and a large number of people. Participants were informed about the operation of the Green Kiosk and how it will serve the Complex of Communities G’ Nicosia, which includes the community of Agrokipia.

The informative event began with a brief greeting from the Community President of Agrokipia, Mr. Sotiris Kyriakou. The Minister then addressed the audience, emphasizing that preventing waste generation, reducing waste production, enhancing recycling, and utilizing waste through innovative practices are key priorities of the Ministry and the government. She also noted that the network of 50 Green Kiosks being inaugurated today is part of this broader strategy.

The Minister of Agriculture continued by stating that Green Kiosks are not merely waste collection points, but also centers for public information and awareness. There, citizens have the opportunity to learn about best practices in waste management and contribute to reducing their environmental footprint.

Ms. Panayiotou added that the inauguration of the first of 50 Green Kiosks marks the foundation for a new era in waste management and the circular economy, in mountainous and remote areas.  She noticed that 15 green kiosks are planned to be installed by the end of 2024, whereas another 25 will be in place in 2025 and the rest 10 in 2026.

After her speech, students from the Agrokipia Primary School performed a song and presented the Minister with a handmade gift.

Following the speeches, the 1st Green Kiosk was officially inaugurated, where attendees had the opportunity to learn about its operation.

The installation and operation of the Green Kiosks is part of the LIFE-IP CYzero Waste project, while its implementation is funded by the European Union through the Recovery and Resilience Facility with a budget of €3.3 million.

For more information about the Green Kiosk, read here.