Limassol: As the city readies for its 2024 carnival, concerns grow over waste generation from the festivities. The Zero Waste Alliance Cyprus promotes eco-friendly practices, urging attendees to upcycle costumes and reduce single-use products. A costume swap event is set to enhance sustainability in celebrations.
In Limassol, Cyprus, preparations are underway for the much-anticipated carnival season, with the final Sunday parade set for March 2, 2024. The event is renowned for its vibrant celebrations and has gained recognition as the largest carnival in the country. However, this festive period also sees a significant increase in waste generation, raising concerns among local authorities and environmental groups.
In 2024, the Limassol municipality reported a collection of 43 tonnes of waste, a notable increase from previous years, with 30 tonnes generated specifically during the Sunday parade. The bulk of this waste is not being recycled, instead ending up at the waste management facility in Pentakomo. This situation has prompted calls for the adoption of improved waste management practices, particularly focusing on zero waste strategies during the heightened celebrations.
During the carnival, costume sales flourish, but many of these garments are produced by companies that prioritise low-cost items often laden with toxic substances such as phthalates. This trend contributes to an escalating culture of overconsumption, whereby costumes are frequently bought, only to be worn once and discarded shortly after the festivities.
Additionally, the use of single-use sprays, including foam and silly string, has come under scrutiny due to their environmental and health impacts. These products contain hazardous materials, raising concerns about their effects on the environment and human health, particularly for children who are often the primary users. The absence of a legal age limit for purchasing these sprays furthers the risk of exposure to harmful substances, which can irritate skin and eyes.
In response to these issues, the Zero Waste Alliance Cyprus has launched the Eco Carnival campaign. The initiative aims to minimise harmful waste practices while still fostering fun and creativity during the carnival season. The campaign encourages participants to refrain from purchasing new costumes from large retailers and instead to think creatively about upcycling existing garments. Individuals are urged to exchange, borrow, or swap costumes, reducing the reliance on disposable products.
A key event supporting this initiative is a carnival costume swap scheduled for February 26 at the Friends of the Earth’s Cyprus Office in Limassol. Attendees are invited to bring old costumes and accessories to exchange with others, promoting the recycling of carnival attire. Additionally, to celebrate creativity, the campaign will host an online competition during the carnival period, inviting participants to submit photos of their DIY costumes, which will later be showcased.
As part of the Eco Carnival efforts, the Zero Waste Alliance promotes practical solutions for reducing single-use plastics, such as encouraging the use of reusable cups and water bottles during the parade.
The Zero Waste Alliance Cyprus, comprising four organisations dedicated to advocating for a zero-waste future, is committed to engaging the public in these efforts. For further details on their initiatives and planned activities, the alliance has encouraged individuals to follow their social media channels.
As Limassol gears up for its carnival festivities, the dual focus on celebration and sustainability marks a significant shift towards environmental consciousness amidst a backdrop of long-standing tradition.
Source: Noah Wire Services
