The Union of Cyprus Municipalities has welcomed parliament's decision to reject legislation introducing a Municipal Waste Landfill Tax, describing the outcome as a vindication of its long-standing position.
In a statement, the union praised what it called the "responsible stance" taken by the majority of MPs in voting against the bill and accompanying regulations.
According to the municipalities' organisation, the decision confirms the arguments it has advanced in recent days that local authorities and citizens should not bear the cost of the state's failure to develop the infrastructure necessary for effective waste management. "Local government and citizens cannot be expected to shoulder the burden of longstanding state shortcomings in creating the necessary infrastructure and conditions for the effective management of waste," the statement said.
Support for environmental goals
The Union of Municipalities reiterated its full support for achieving national and European environmental targets and for the transition to a circular economy.
However, it argued that meeting those objectives requires:
- Comprehensive planning
- Adequate infrastructure
- Meaningful cooperation among stakeholders
- Fair distribution of responsibilities
The union said environmental targets cannot be achieved simply by transferring costs to residents for shortcomings that are beyond their control.
Call for dialogue
The organisation urged the government to engage immediately in substantive discussions with local authorities to develop a fair and workable framework for waste management.
According to the union, any future system should ensure both environmental protection and compliance with Cyprus' European obligations while avoiding unjustified financial burdens on households.
The municipalities' body said it will continue to submit evidence-based proposals aimed at shaping an effective waste-management policy that benefits the environment, local government and society as a whole.
