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TUI Will Help to Reduce Single-Use Plastic Volume in Cyprus

TUI Foundation together with the Travel Foundation has started a new initiative that is targeted at reducing the volume of single-use plastic in the coastal regions of Cyprus. To make sure this partnership is as efficient as possible, the companies also collaborate with the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative (CSTI). Together, they make sure that the marine environment of the island doesn’t suffer from this dangerous pollutant.

Plastics are a big problem for the Mediterranean. They are the biggest category of beach litter – over 85% of floating litter and more than a half (up to 95%) of all litter on the seafloor are plastics. Food containers, plastic bags, plastic straws, cotton buds, and bottles make up the majority of litter that is found in the Mediterranean Sea. Cyprus is a popular tourist destination, and so tourists are responsible for much of that litter. To save the Mediterranean Sea and tackle plastic pollution, much has to be done. It is also important to raise awareness and encourage people to reduce their use of plastic.

The final target of participants is to reduce single-use plastics by tourists and tourism-related businesses up to 70% by 2022. Hotels in Ayia Napa and Protaras hotels get some of the closest attention. These are very popular destinations and, therefore, they suffer from the pollution the most. Members of the CSTI will work closely with local businesses such as hotels, cafes, and restaurants and will provide training on how to reduce single-use plastics and refrain from purchasing plastic food containers, straws, bottles, and bags.

Without a doubt, it is also important to work with tourists and residents of all ages and let them know how they can make the environment cleaner. The CSTI members plan to organize various events for people, such as competitions, beach cleans, activities for schools, and so on. Naturally, to help this initiative succeed, activists need the support of local politicians, businesses, and society. This is a great opportunity for local tourism to step forward and make the beautiful coastal area of Cyprus cleaner.

At the moment, the initiative is under discussion, but activists have already received support from numerous local businesses and hotels in Ayia Napa. Many local residents are also interested in the program and want to know how they can make their region cleaner. The official launch is scheduled for November 2019.

08.09.2019

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