Municipal solid waste in Cyprus rose by 5.6% in 2024, reaching an estimated 669,000 tonnes, placing the island among the highest waste producers per capita in the European Union, official data showed on Thursday.
The increase compares with 633,000 tonnes recorded in 2023, according to the Statistical Service of Cyprus.
Of the 566,000 tonnes of waste treated in 2024, the bulk – 78.5% – was disposed of in landfills, underscoring the island’s continued reliance on dumping. Recycling accounted for 14.2% of treated waste, while 4.4% was composted and 2.9% used for energy recovery.
On a per capita basis, Cyprus generated 664 kg of municipal waste in 2024, significantly above the EU average of 517 kg, ranking fourth among member states.
Denmark recorded the highest level at 755 kg per person, followed by Belgium with 699 kg and Luxembourg with 681 kg. Cyprus was next, ahead of Germany at 628 kg and Malta at 621 kg.
The figures highlight persistent challenges for Cyprus in reducing landfill use and improving recycling rates, areas that have been under scrutiny as the EU pushes members to meet stricter environmental and waste management targets.
Source: CNA
