Cyprus approves 'Zero Waste to Kitchens' grant scheme

The Cyprus Cabinet has officially approved a new grant scheme titled “Zero Waste to Kitchens” to assist businesses in reducing their environmental footprint. Proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, the pilot program is scheduled for 2027 with a total budget of €100,000, funded by the Department of Environment. The initiative is specifically designed for companies in the catering, restaurant, bakery, and patisserie sectors.

Participating businesses can receive grants covering 80% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of €20,000 per entity. The scheme is expected to support between five and 10 businesses during its inaugural cycle, operating under the European Union’s de minimis state aid framework. Funding will be calculated based on the specific type and number of eligible expenses reported by each applicant.

This initiative aligns with the European Green Deal and the amended Waste Framework Directive (2025/1892/EC). These regulations mandate a 10% reduction in food waste for processing and manufacturing sectors by 2030, alongside a 30% per capita reduction target for retail, catering, and households. The project aims to foster a culture of waste prevention and sustainable management within the national business sector.