Cyprus is preparing a national definition of waste and hazardous waste to be used for the purpose of transboundary movements of waste. Currently, Cyprus uses the national definition as listed in Annexes I & II of the Basel Convention. The new definition will be based on the European Regulation on Waste Shipment No. EEC/259/93. The new Law on Waste Management that will cover inter alia the management of hazardous wastes will be adopted in 2002.
There are no wastes defined as, or considered to be hazardous wastes by national legislation in accordance with Art. 1, para 1(b) of the Basel Convention.
All wastes destined for disposal require special consideration when subjected to transboundary movement.
A Law ratifying the amendment of the Basel Convention has been passed on the 14.4.2000 (No. 12(III)/2000).
Restrictions on export for final disposal and for recovery
Cyprus restricts the export of hazardous wastes and other wastes for final disposal and for recovery. Cyprus follows all the provisions of the Basel convention regarding the export of hazardous wastes.
Restrictions on import for final disposal
Cyprus restricts the import of hazardous wastes and other wastes for final disposal. Even though the relevant draft legislation has been finalized, import of wastes for final disposal is not permitted, as there are no facilities for this purpose. As far as the import of wastes for purposes other than disposal (e.g. recycling, recovery) is concerned, these are examined on a case- by- case basis. Permits are issued only for “green wastes”.
Restrictions on import for recovery
Cyprus restricts the import of hazardous wastes and other wastes for recovery. As far as the import of wastes for purposes other than disposal (e.g. recycling, recovery) is concerned, these are examined on a case- by- case basis. Permits are issued only for “green wastes”.
Restrictions on transit
Cyprus restricts the transit of hazardous wastes and other wastes. Cyprus follows the provisions of the Basel convention regarding transit issues. In order for a permit to be granted, a copy of the Notification Document appropriately stamped by the Competent Authority of the Import Country is required, as well as detailed information on the date of arrival and departure and the name of the ship.
A National Strategy for the Management of Wastes is being finalized, taking into consideration all the necessary measures for the reduction of the generation of wastes, as provided in the relevant E.U legislation.
A study concerning the establishment of a hazardous wastes management site for the hazardous wastes generated in Cyprus commenced and will be finalized by 1 June 2002.
Legislation, regulations and guidelines
The relevant draft legislation has been prepared.
Others
In 2001, after a contract awarded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, approximately 8 tons of laboratory wastes were collected and exported for treatment.
Transboundary Movement Reduction Measures
National strategies/policies
Not available.
Disposal/ Recovery Facilities
There are no disposal facilities.
A central treatment plant treats liquid hazardous wastes produced by a number of small industrial units. Further information could be obtained from the Focal Point.
