The Nicosia Development Agency (ANEL) is making significant strides towards a circular economy in line with the Waste Hierararchy with the implementation of its Action Plan.
The Action Plan emerged from ANEL's role as an intermediary consultative body, facilitating collaboration between the Ministry, Municipalities, academia, NGOs, and the private sector. Drawing inspiration from the Reuse Center of Municipality of Serra De Conti, run by four municipalities in Italy's Region Marche, ANEL aims to establish an Inter-municipal Reuse Centre in the District of Nicosia.
As a vital component of the Cyprus Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021-2026, the construction of two inter-municipal re-use and repair centres was planned, serving all five regions, with one of the centers designated for the Nicosia district. These re-use centers also focus on social employment, aiming to integrate vulnerable groups, like the long-term unemployed and individuals with disabilities, into the labor market through training programs.
The proposal to develop an Inter-municipal Reuse Centre in Nicosia recently garnered approval from the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment. To support this initiative, financial incentives, such as municipal tax incentives, are offered to citizens who opt for re-use practices.
The envisioned Inter-municipal Reuse Centre in Nicosia is set to include essential features like a reception area, an exchange zone, a warehouse, a repair point, and a second-hand shop, all accessible to people with reduced mobility. The estimated indoor space required is 2,000-2,500 m², complemented by 3,000-3,500 m² for open spaces.
The Department of Environment, in collaboration with ANEL, has identified and approved a suitable piece of land at Latsia Municipality for the Centre's construction. The necessary governmental procedures have been initiated, and the project is now progressing towards the construction phase.
In addition to selecting the site, the Department of Environment and ANEL are thoroughly studying the most suitable and efficient operating model structure for the Inter-municipal Reuse Centre, ensuring its integration into Cyprus' waste management framework.
Furthermore, Cyprus continues to study successful practices from other EU projects related to this initiative. This approach allows the country to identify and address any potential gaps that may arise during the implementation phase.
Through these actions, Cyprus is creating opportunities for more re-use and repair, advancing towards a low-carbon circular economy while promoting social inclusion and responsible waste management.
