Cyprus recognises hotels in circular economy certification scheme, Oev says

Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus marked a milestone for hotels through a circular economy certification scheme, according to an announcement from the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (Oev) released on Thursday. Oev said the development comes as the government prepares to announce emergency support to shield the industry from regional instability.

Certificate ceremony in Nicosia

Oev said it held a certificate award ceremony in Nicosia earlier this week focused on the circular economy certification scheme, which is being implemented under a broader initiative promoting sustainable practices in Cypriot hotels. The federation said the event, held on Tuesday, marked the culmination of a four-year systematic effort to support the green transition of Cyprus’ tourism product through the integration of circular economy principles.

Implementation and funding

Oev said the measure, titled promotion of the circular economy in hotel establishments, was implemented in cooperation with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. The federation said the measure is funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility under Cyprus’ Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021–2026.

Comments from officials and Oev

Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis said the initiative “highlights the need to upgrade Cyprus’ tourism model through sustainability and the practical implementation of the circular economy.” Finance Minister Makis Keravnos said “the transition to circular business models carries significant fiscal and developmental value,” adding that he congratulated Oev for implementing the measure and underlined the importance of Cyprus’ absorption of Recovery and Resilience Facility funds. Oev president George Pantelides said Cyprus tourism is “leading the green transition” by using the certification scheme to upgrade its qualitative footprint and strengthen its long-term strategic position.

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