Recycling in Cyprus stands at a crossroads. While some sectors are making progress, others reveal a worrying reality far from European targets.
In the vehicle sector, approximately 4,000 cars are recycled annually through 15 licensed facilities. In 2023, they processed 7,168 tonnes, a figure that dropped to 4,575 tonnes in 2024. A new EU Regulation expected during the Cypriot EU Presidency will further tighten requirements.
The real battle, however, is in electrical and electronic equipment. Cypriots purchased 14.20 kg of equipment per capita in 2023, but returned just 3.8 kg. Cyprus achieves only 40.6%, well below the EU target of 65%. Air conditioners show shocking figures: a mere 1–2%.
Many old appliances end up in illegal dumps or are dismantled by private individuals who sell the metals as scrap. The rapid real estate development, including new towers in Limassol, worsens the picture, as new appliances will not become waste for years.
On batteries, the country reached 37.61% in 2023 against a 45% target, while in tyres two collective systems handle over 10,000 tonnes annually. New waste streams are already in preparation: pharmaceuticals, tobacco filter products, agricultural plastics, and even balloons.
The Department of Environment is planning 50 Green Kiosks in mountainous areas, 2 Reuse Centres, a network of second-hand shops, and a hazardous household waste collection system. Success, however, hinges on citizens’ cooperation.
