First Lady launches initiative to convert Presidential Palace into 'Zero Waste to Landfill' building

First Lady Philippa Karsera Christodoulides and Environment Commissioner Maria Panayiotou presented their joint initiative on Monday to transform the Presidential Palace into a Zero Waste to Landfill building. The initiative aligns with World Earth Day, celebrated on April 22nd.

Speaking at the outdoor area of the Presidential Palace, the First Lady stated that the project aims to implement new standards to significantly reduce waste production. She emphasized that this initiative not only changes attitudes but also helps Cyprus achieve the ambitious goals set by the European Commission through the European Green Deal and the Fit-For-55 legislative package, which Cyprus is required to implement. She also highlighted that the zero waste philosophy is becoming a necessity and can be easily initiated from homes and workplaces.

"We start from the Presidential Palace, which should reflect the modern Cypriot culture in all aspects and set a good example," concluded the First Lady.

In her speech, the Commissioner explained that converting the Presidential Palace into a Zero Waste to Landfill building means that all waste will be managed in a rational manner with 100% verification that it will not end up in landfills, but rather will be reused or recycled. She emphasized that through this initiative, the Presidential Palace will contribute to resource conservation and carbon footprint reduction, becoming a practical example of environmental protection in Cyprus.

The Commissioner further highlighted that the Presidential Palace includes not only the building but also the surrounding park of approximately 15 hectares. She noted that the park, in addition to providing forest recreation services to visitors, plays a vital role in the environment and ecology of Cyprus, as it is home to several native species of fauna.