Cyprus has emerged as the EU’s highest food-waste generator, with the average Cypriot discarding nearly 294 kilograms of food annually, surpassing the European average of 132 kilograms, according to data from 2022. The staggering waste stems from inefficiencies across the food supply chain, from production to consumer use, and adds to economic and environmental costs, officials reported.
The Department of Environment emphasized that food waste is among the most pressing environmental issues. With each Cypriot resident producing an estimated 673 kilograms of waste annually, the issue costs households approximately €600 annually. The food-waste footprint has broader impacts, contributing 16% of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions tied to the food supply chain. Experts say wasted food squanders valuable resources like water, energy, and labor, harming both the economy and the environment.
Across the EU, food waste in 2022 totaled over 59 million tonnes, equating to a financial loss of €143 billion, according to European Commission statistics. This waste, exacerbated by overproduction and mismanagement of “use-by” dates, presents an ongoing challenge as European countries strive to halve per capita food waste by 2030 in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Cyprus Initiates Waste Management Reforms
In response, Cyprus launched its Municipal Waste Management Plan (2022-2028) to tackle food waste and other organic materials. The plan forces local authorities to implement a “pay-as-you-throw” policy, encouraging households to separate waste for reuse or recycling. The European Waste Reduction Week, set for November 16-24, will feature local initiatives promoting food waste awareness under the slogan “Food Waste is Out of Taste.”
Cypriot authorities also prioritize projects such as LIFE FoodPrint to inform consumers and businesses in the food, hospitality, and tourism sectors about best practices for minimizing waste. The initiative, which concluded in 2023, developed practical tools, including a Food Waste Calculator and educational resources for hospitality professionals.
In parallel, the Life IP CY Zero WASTE project, with a €15 million budget, encourages food donation and sustainable consumption. Through this platform, Cyprus aims to support the EU’s Green Deal by fostering collective efforts to cut food waste, build awareness, and advance eco-friendly food systems nationwide.
(IN CYPRUS)
