The establishment of the Repair and Reuse Center (RRC) in Limassol is at an initial stage. This is a model infrastructure project that aspires to become a reference point for sustainable urban waste management and for strengthening the circular economy in Cyprus. The design, construction, and operation of the RRC are part of the EU co-financed project LIFE-IP Zero Waste Cyprus, coordinated by the Department of Environment of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, and includes a wide consortium with the participation of governmental, semi-governmental, and local authorities.
The project is expected to be implemented through a partnership with a contracting economic entity, to be selected following a relevant public tender. The procurement process is expected to commence within the first half of 2026. Meanwhile, a detailed feasibility study is underway, covering all essential planning stages: site selection, technical and operational requirements, necessary equipment, specifications, cost estimation, and the licensing procedures required for the implementation of the project.
The next phase of the project involves preparing a complete tender documentation package for awarding a design-build-operate-maintain type contract. This type of contract provides for the unified assignment of the architectural and technical design, construction, subsequent operation, and maintenance of the Center, thereby enhancing quality assurance and efficiency across all stages.
Simultaneously, the National Technical University of Athens, as a partner in the LIFE-IP project, is working on the preparation of a Memorandum of Cooperation to be signed between the District Local Government Organization (EOA) of Limassol, the Municipality of Limassol, and the Department of Environment. This memorandum will define the allocation of responsibilities and the oversight of the Center’s operation, which is scheduled to be assigned by the EOA to the Development Agency of Lemesos. This assignment will remain in effect until the end of the project, that is, September 2029.
The Repair and Reuse Center is an innovative infrastructure designed to collect, sort, repair, and redistribute items that would otherwise be discarded. Items to be managed include furniture, electrical and electronic appliances, clothing, toys, and books. The reuse process contributes not only to reducing the volume of waste generated but also to saving natural resources and energy.
The facility will feature appropriately configured spaces for receiving, temporarily storing, repairing, and distributing items. Items that do not require repair will be immediately reusable, thereby reducing processing time and cost. Specially trained staff will undertake the technical restoration of items using repair methods focused on safety and quality.
The Center’s mission goes beyond environmental goals and encompasses a strong social dimension. It will create job opportunities for the long-term unemployed and individuals without specialized skills by offering training and pathways to labor market integration. Moreover, it will promote social cohesion by ensuring access to affordable, functional, and reliable products for individuals and families with limited financial resources.
The operation of the Center will be supported by an organized network of reuse shops. These shops will be established at selected Green Points in the Limassol and Paphos districts, facilitating the collection and promotion of reusable items. The connection with the Green Kiosks will further enhance citizens’ access to the system, contributing to the holistic management of reusable materials.
The project is part of the National Municipal Waste Management Plan 2022–2028 and promotes the country’s strategic goals for a circular economy, waste reduction, and efficient use of available resources. The selection of the Center’s location in the Ayios Spyridonas Parish of the Municipality of Limassol resulted from a detailed technical and environmental assessment in consultation with the Limassol Municipality. The site offers easy accessibility, ample space, and potential for future expansion.
The LIFE-IP Zero Waste Cyprus project, spanning eight years, aims for a radical upgrade in the management of municipal solid waste in Cyprus through coordinated actions, innovative infrastructure, and active citizen participation. It also includes a multi-level information and education program featuring Info Days, presentations, school programs, workshops, and collaborative activities with NGOs and communities. The RRC will also host an educational hub with workshops, seminars, presentations, and hands-on activities for students, youth, and adults. The training will focus on circular economy, waste reduction, and responsible consumer behavior.
The next steps of the LIFE-IP Zero Waste Cyprus project expected in 2025 include the completion of relevant studies, the launch of the implementation tender, and increased public awareness of the Center’s operations and accompanying activities.
For more information about the project’s progress and activities, citizens can visit www.cyzerowaste.com or follow the project’s social media pages (Facebook & Instagram).
The information was provided to “Entrepreneurial Limassol” by the Department of Environment, coordinating partner of the LIFE-IP Zero Waste Cyprus project.
