Paralimni–Deryneia Municipality and CSTI Join Forces to Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Becoming the first municipality in Cyprus to systematically implement comprehensive single-use plastic reduction practices.

The Municipality becomes the first in Cyprus to systematically implement comprehensive single-use plastic reduction measures under the “Destination Zero Waste Cyprus and Greece – Keep our Sand and Sea Plastic Free” programme.

The Paralimni – Deryneia Municipality is taking significant steps towards the adoption of sustainable practices by strengthening its collaboration with the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative (CSTI) to reduce the use of single-use plastics in municipal facilities.

As part of this effort, a meeting was held on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, between the Municipal Secretary of Paralimni – Deryneia Municipality, Ms Gabriela Gavriel, the Deputy Mayor of Frenaros, Mr Costas Michael, the Executive President of CSTI, Mr Philippos Drousiotis, and CSTI’s representative in the Famagusta District, Ms Elena Michael. The meeting focused on discussing concrete actions for the gradual phase-out of single-use plastics and the implementation of more environmentally friendly practices throughout the Municipality.

The initiative forms part of the “Destination Zero Waste Cyprus and Greece – Keep our Sand and Sea Plastic Free” programme, implemented by the TUI Care Foundation in partnership with CSTI. The programme aims to prevent and reduce plastic pollution in coastal and tourist destinations across Cyprus through collaboration with municipalities, local authorities, businesses, schools and local communities.

Steps Towards a Single-Use Plastic-Free Municipality

During the meeting, participants discussed the actions required to support the Municipality’s gradual transition towards a more sustainable operational model. These include assessing the current use of single-use plastics in municipal facilities, adopting a policy for their gradual reduction and elimination, and replacing them with reusable or other sustainable alternatives.

The discussion also covered measures to strengthen recycling and proper waste separation practices, the integration of sustainability criteria into municipal procurement procedures, and the further digitalisation of administrative processes aimed at reducing the consumption of materials and packaging.

Particular emphasis was placed on the active involvement of municipal staff, residents and local businesses through awareness-raising campaigns, educational programmes and community partnerships. Participants also explored the implementation of single-use plastic-free practices during municipal meetings, events and activities, as well as the establishment of measurable targets and monitoring mechanisms to track progress.

Building on a Successful Partnership

This new initiative builds on a series of actions already implemented by the Paralimni – Deryneia Municipality and CSTI as part of their long-standing collaboration to promote environmental responsibility and sustainable development.

Among the most notable achievements is the designation of Frenaros Primary School as a “School for Change: Pioneers on the Road to a Plastic-Free Future”. Through the programme, a water cooler was installed to reduce the use of plastic bottles, while reusable insulated bottles were distributed to students. In addition, a waste audit and analysis were conducted to identify further opportunities for waste reduction within the school.

Students and teachers also participated in a beach clean-up and litter monitoring activity, contributing to environmental education and raising awareness among the younger generation.

At the municipal level, two “Plastic Free” beaches have already been established, supporting broader efforts to reduce plastic waste and strengthen environmental awareness among both residents and visitors.

The First Municipality in Cyprus to Adopt a Comprehensive Plastic-Free Approach

Collaboration with local authorities is considered essential for achieving meaningful and measurable results. Municipalities, due to their close connection with residents and local communities, are uniquely positioned to play a leading role in promoting and implementing sustainable practices in their daily operations.

The transition towards a model with fewer single-use plastics is not only an environmental necessity but also an important investment in the sustainable development of Cyprus’ tourism sector. At the same time, it contributes to maintaining cleaner beaches and public spaces, enhancing the country’s reputation as a high-quality and sustainable tourism destination.

Through this collaboration, the Paralimni – Deryneia Municipality has become the first municipality in Cyprus to systematically implement comprehensive single-use plastic reduction practices under the “Destination Zero Waste Cyprus and Greece – Keep our Sand and Sea Plastic Free” programme, reaffirming its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable local governance.

For its part, CSTI continues to actively promote sustainable tourism and environmental protection through initiatives, partnerships and actions that encourage collective action and long-term environmental responsibility.