Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus concluded its rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on June 30 after advancing environmental measures, including approval of a directive setting pollution limits for a group of PFAS chemicals in surface water and groundwater.
Water pollution directive
In February 2026, under the Cypriot presidency, the Council approved a long-delayed directive that brings a group of PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals”, under EU pollution limits for surface water and introduces groundwater regulation for the substances. The European Parliament confirmed the agreement weeks later.
Agriculture and Environment Minister Maria Panayiotou said water quality was “an utmost priority” of the presidency.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used for their resistance to grease, water and stains. Their persistence means they can accumulate in soil, water, food and human bodies over decades. Regulators have linked long-term exposure to some PFAS with cancer, genetic damage, reproductive harm and damage to internal organs.
About 46 per cent of Europe’s surface waters and one quarter of its groundwater do not meet good chemical status.
Packaging restrictions
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, Regulation (EU) 2025/40, will apply directly in all EU member states without requiring transposition into Cypriot law.
From August 12, 2026, food-contact packaging containing PFAS at or above specified limits cannot be placed on the EU market. The measure does not provide a grace period for existing stock. It affects producers, importers, supermarkets, bakeries, cafés, delivery operators, hotels and catering businesses, which will need supplier documentation to demonstrate compliance.
The regulation also introduces measures aimed at reducing single-use packaging. From February 12, 2027, take-away outlets must allow customers to use their own cups at no additional cost compared with disposable cups.
From February 12, 2028, such outlets must offer reusable packaging through a return or deposit system. From January 1, 2030, single-use plastic packaging for food and drink consumed on premises will be prohibited.
Micro-enterprise exemption
The reusable-packaging requirement from 2028 does not apply to micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and annual turnover or assets below €2 million.
In Cyprus, many cafés, kiosks, bars and take-away businesses are micro-enterprises. Larger businesses subject to the requirement include hotels and chains, while many smaller independent outlets are exempt.