city overview

welcome to nicosia, the heart and capital of cyprus, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. nestled at the center of the island, this vibrant city is a living testament to cyprus's rich past and its dynamic present. as a leader in sustainability efforts within the mediterranean region, nicosia is pioneering the way towards a zero-waste future. with its commitment to circular economy initiatives and community-driven repair projects, nicosia stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship. delve into the essence of nicosia, where every corner tells a story of resilience, innovation, and dedication to a greener world.

fun facts

- nicosia is the world's last divided capital, with a unique history that adds to its character.

- it is home to the green line, a buffer zone established by the united nations, fostering a unique ecosystem in the heart of the city.

- the venetian walls surrounding the old city are a marvel of medieval engineering, now serving as a symbol of the city's resilience and historical significance.

- nicosia is leading cyprus in solar energy production, harnessing the island's abundant sunshine to power its journey towards sustainability.

- the city boasts a network of repair cafes and community initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting product longevity.

- local markets in nicosia champion zero-waste shopping, offering bulk goods and plastic-free alternatives to encourage sustainable consumer habits.

- urban gardens and green spaces are integral to nicosia's landscape, providing residents with fresh produce and a green refuge within the bustling city.

- nicosia hosts annual eco-awareness events and workshops, educating citizens on zero-waste practices and the importance of a circular economy.

- innovative recycling programs in nicosia allow for a wide range of materials to be reclaimed and repurposed, reducing the city's environmental footprint.

- the city's public transportation system is evolving, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly travel options.

nicosia's commitment to sustainability and zero waste principles is not just a policy but a way of life. as it strides confidently towards a greener future, nicosia invites its residents and visitors alike to join in its journey, making every day a step closer to a sustainable world.

sustainability snapshot

accomplishments and objectives:

zero waste:

- nicosia has made significant strides in its zero waste journey, implementing comprehensive recycling programs that target residential, commercial, and governmental sectors.

- the city has developed a zero waste action plan with the goal of diverting at least 70% of waste from landfills by 2030.

- noteworthy is the "nicosia reuses" initiative, which encourages the donation and reuse of items through community exchange programs.

circular economy strategies:

- nicosia has fostered partnerships with local businesses to promote circular economy principles, emphasizing product life extension, resource recovery, and sustainable design.

- the city has invested in a municipal resource recovery park where materials such as electronics, metals, and textiles are collected for refurbishment and recycling.

- a grant program for small businesses that adopt circular economy practices has been launched, rewarding innovation in waste reduction and sustainable resource management.

repair initiatives:

- "repair cafés" have been established throughout the city, offering free meeting places where residents can repair household items with the help of volunteers, reducing the need for new purchases.

- the city has launched an online platform, "fixit nicosia," connecting skilled repair professionals with residents to encourage and facilitate product repair and maintenance.

- educational workshops on repair techniques and upcycling are regularly held to empower citizens with the skills to extend the life of products.

future goals:

- nicosia aims to establish a city-wide composting program to tackle organic waste and reduce methane emissions from landfills.

- plans are in the works for a "library of things" where citizens can borrow tools and equipment, reducing the need for individual ownership of infrequently used items.

- the city is working on expanding the infrastructure for repair and refurbishment centers, especially for electronics and appliances, as part of its investment in a circular economy.

waste statistics:

- as of the last assessment, the city of nicosia had a waste diversion rate of around 45%, with the aim to increase this percentage significantly in the coming years.

- electronic waste collection has seen an uptick, with current programs successfully diverting 60% of e-waste from landfills for proper recycling and recovery.

- organic waste currently accounts for approximately 30% of the city's municipal solid waste; the proposed composting initiative aims to reduce this significantly.

through these achievements, ongoing projects, and future goals, nicosia is working tirelessly to become a leading city in zero waste practices, circular economy implementation, and repair initiatives, setting a standard for other urban environments to follow.