THE GOVERNMENT’S plan for a new recycling system, which has been in the works for the past three years, is in its final stages of completion.
At the same time, the Chamber of Commerce (KEVE) has set up its own initiative, Green Dot (Cyprus) Public Co. Ltd, which is also in the process of enforcing a similar system
According to the law, companies are obliged to recycle all recyclable materials produced within their businesses. For a more effective and economical result, KEVE founded Green Dot so that recycling could be carried out collectively rather than by each company individually.
But a spokesman for the Environmental Services of the Agriculture Ministry told the Cyprus Mail yesterday that, contrary to reports, there is no conflict between the company and the government, as the two systems have completely different aims.
“The government took the initiative to create the recycling system in order to accustom the public with recycling. The two plans are completely different. Green Dot have not yet submitted their plan. When they do, it will be carefully considered to ensure that it is within the legal framework. It will then be put forward to the Cabinet to be approved.”
The government’s plan is to place special containers around town where the public can dispose of recyclable goods.
Green Dot plans to collect recyclable materials using the same method as rubbish collectors. A day will be designated for the collection and the public will use the same method they use when disposing of their refuse.
The General President of Green Dot, Kyriacos Parpounas, says their plan is a carefully thought out and productive one.
“It is designed in a way that we believe will be productive. Our design is different from the government’s in that the government has a limited budget, whereas for us, as a company, it is our only project so we can offer more. We are in the final stages of completing our plan and will submit it to the government.”
But although the two plans differ and may overlap in some areas, Parpounas stressed there was no conflict with the government and that, with a little co-ordination, the two systems could co-exist.
“We are not in conflict with anybody. We are just trying to play a role. If it is possible, we wish to co-ordinate with the government so that we don’t create confusion for the public. We did try to co-ordinate with them before they moved forward with their plans, but they had progressed too far and we didn’t get the chance. There is no problem; there are just areas where our plans coincide.”
Green Dot has signed a consultancy agreement with FOST Plus, the Belgian Green Dot organisation, to help define its strategy and set up a packaging system tailored to Cyprus’ needs.
Michael Spanos, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Green Dot Cyprus, has issued a statement confirming the company’s plans.
“Our aim is to have a cost-effective packaging management system, in co-operation with the authorities and the public, by the end of this year,” said Spanos.
“With this system, companies in Cyprus will be able to meet their legal obligations concerning the recycling of used packaging. The packaging and packaging waste laws set specific targets which have to be achieved in an individual or collective way.”
