The ‘Pay As You Throw (PAYT)’ waste management system will start being implemented across Cyprus on June 30, 2024, the House Environment Committee heard today.
During the session, the Committee put forward 25 issues to Environment Minister Maria Panayiotou.
The Minister voiced concerns about the readiness disparity among local authorities, with some significantly ahead in the preparatory stages and others lagging, potentially impacting the rollout of the programme.
The PAYT system is part of a broader initiative, as local authorities were tasked to develop and implement a six-year Local Action Plan by December 31, 2023, focusing on municipal waste prevention and management within their jurisdictions.
The plan’s objectives include reducing landfilling of biodegradable materials, enhancing recycling and reuse efforts, and curtailing waste production.
The contentious dog legislation, stirring considerable debate in Parliament, was also addressed. Minister Panayiotou assured that refining and presenting this legislation to Parliament is a top priority, with issues encompassing animal shelters and cemeteries being of particular concern to the MPs.
In a move to strengthen environmental oversight, the Ministry is set to recruit 15 inspectors for its environmental inspection team, expected to be operational by year-end, underscoring the government’s commitment to environmental enforcement.
The delicate matter of asphalt plant locations was also discussed, with the Minister affirming that decisions would be made with public health considerations at the forefront. Furthermore, the evaluation of five potential sites for livestock facilities underscores the ministry’s comprehensive approach to environmental management.
Lastly, the readiness for forest fire prevention was highlighted, alongside a nationwide survey conducted to assess the fire risk in industries, identifying 37 cases where measures have been mandated by the Fire Service.
A follow-up inspection is planned before the summer season to ensure compliance, illustrating the ministry’s vigilant approach to safeguarding the environment and public safety.
