The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, in the context of the LEADER Cooperation Project and in alignment with the objectives of the LIFE-IP Zero Waste Cyprus Project, implemented an awareness-raising action in May 2025, across 11 primary schools located within the Community Clusters G, D, Z, and H of the Nicosia District. The initiative aimed to raise student awareness regarding the prevention of municipal solid waste generation.

Specifically, the action included participation from the Primary Schools of Agios Ioannis, Farmakas-Kampi, Kalo Chorio Oreinis, Korakou, Kampi, Kakopetria, Klirou, Agios Epiphanios, Mitsero, Agrokipia, Evrychou, Palaichori and Arediou, with a total of 435 students involved.

The awareness activity was centered around a specially designed presentation tailored to suit the different age groups of the children, incorporating pedagogical methods such as:

•  Screening of two informational videos;

• Active student engagement through dialogue, discussions and questions;

• An interactive knowledge quiz using the Wordwall online platform;

• A hands-on object-exchange activity, providing practical experience in reuse and reinforcing the concept of circular consumption under the concept of “don’t waste – reuse”.

Through this presentation, students had the opportunity to understand the causes of waste overproduction and the consequences of poor waste management. They also learned about simple, practical steps they can take in their daily lives to reduce waste generation.

Particular emphasis was given to the operation of the Reuse Shops located at the Linou and Malounta Green Points, highlighting the environmental and community benefits these facilities offer. Relevant informational material was distributed to students, who then shared it with their families, thereby strengthening the school’s role as a multiplier of environmental awareness within the community.

From the implementation of this action, it was observed that while most students were already familiar with the concept of recycling, primarily through the use of blue bins and crafting with recyclable materials—the concepts of waste prevention and practical reuse through the exchange or donation of items in good condition were less well-known. In this regard, the presentation enabled students to become acquainted with the Waste Hierarchy Pyramid, emphasizing the importance of each stage, particularly prevention and reuse as key tools in reducing waste generation.

The action was warmly received by both students and educators. Teachers emphasized the importance of continuing such initiatives, while also suggesting the reinforcement of the experiential component to further strengthen active participation and the internalization of these concepts by students.

Finally, under the LIFE-IP Zero Waste Cyprus Project, the expansion of such activities is being considered, through the implementation of additional hands-on educational actions, aiming to further enhance the environmental awareness and education of the younger generation.