Keeping Nicosia clean

AN INITIATIVE to keep Nicosia clean was launched yesterday by the Municipality in association with ExxonMobil.

Mayor Michalakis Zampelas explained that the idea is to distribute a paper bag to motorists so that litter is not thrown out of cars onto the streets.

Municipal counsellor Katia Apeyitou, who came up with the idea six months ago, explained that, “people must understand that they have a responsibility to keep the capital clean and they should set a good example to their children. If a child sees one of their parents throwing litter out of their car window they will then do the same.”

Zampelas explained that, “30,000 bags made out recycled paper have been produced, with the £30,000 bill footed by ExxonMobil.”

More initiatives will follow in due course such as recycling points, extra wastebaskets and information leaflets in seven languages, according to the Mayor.

“Every city is dirty unless it’s properly looked after,” he said. “We will be doing everything we can to keep it clean.”

President of ExxonMobil Cyprus, Ali Bakr, said that, “it is with great pleasure that we support the Municipality in its effort to create a clean environment thus promoting the respect for the environment and at the same time fostering a sense of well-being among its citizens. ExxonMobil is committed to be a good corporate citizen in all the places in which we operate worldwide. We are dedicated to running safe and environmentally responsible operations by implementing best practices with continued efforts to improve environmental performance.

“Mindful of the responsibility to the consumer and their needs, we have responded immediately to this new initiative by the Municipality with the distribution of paper bags, which will be distributed free of charge at all Esso service stations in Nicosia and we urge you all to use them. In this way you will be supporting the Municipality’s efforts for a clean environment but most importantly, teaching our children and the younger generation, respect for the environment.”

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