**Title: Cyprus’ Cafes to Face New ‘Bring Your Own Cup’ Rules**
Starting next February, takeaway coffee shops and food outlets in Cyprus will be required to accept customers’ reusable cups as part of new European Union packaging regulations aimed at reducing waste. This initiative is designed to bring significant operational changes to the hospitality sector and is part of a broader EU packaging waste regulation that applies directly to all member states, including Cyprus.
The new rules mandate that businesses selling takeaway drinks must serve beverages in customers’ own reusable containers, provided that hygiene standards are met. This regulation does not require national legislation for implementation, but Cyprus must establish a framework for enforcement, which includes determining the authorities responsible for compliance, inspection protocols, and penalties for violations.
Charalambos Theopemptou, a former environment commissioner, emphasized the direct applicability of the regulation across the EU, highlighting that Cyprus now faces the task of creating a practical enforcement framework. The changes extend beyond merely allowing customers to bring their own cups; businesses will need to develop clear procedures for handling customer-supplied containers, train staff adequately, and display information to inform customers about how the new system will operate.
Theopemptou noted that the regulation will have significant implications for businesses, requiring substantial oversight. Companies will need to implement procedures for managing containers that may be deemed unclean or unsuitable while ensuring that food safety standards are upheld throughout the preparation process. He stressed the importance of preparing and training staff in advance, as they will need to understand what types of containers are acceptable and inform customers of their responsibilities when providing reusable cups or food containers.
In addition to beverages, the new rules will also affect takeaway food services. Operators will have to find ways to accommodate customer-supplied containers without compromising hygiene requirements.
Looking ahead, a second phase of the regulation will take effect on February 12, 2028. During this phase, most food service businesses will be required to offer reusable packaging through return or deposit schemes. This means that cafes and restaurants will need to provide reusable cups or food containers that customers can return after use. However, this obligation will not apply to small-scale businesses that employ fewer than 10 people or have an annual turnover or balance sheet below €2 million.
The wider EU regulation also includes restrictions on packaging containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as "forever chemicals." These substances are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks, making their reduction a priority in the new packaging rules.
Further changes are set to take place in January 2030, when single-use packaging for food and beverages consumed on-site in hotels, restaurants, and catering establishments will generally be prohibited, with limited exemptions.
Theopemptou remarked on the significant overhaul required to adapt to these new regulations, particularly due to the hygiene implications, staff training needs, and necessary signage. He indicated that businesses will require guidance from the government on how to navigate the various aspects of the new laws to avoid potential complications.
As Cyprus prepares for these changes, the hospitality sector is urged to begin planning and training staff to ensure a smooth transition to the new requirements. The implementation of these regulations represents a step towards more sustainable practices in the food and beverage industry, aligning with the EU's broader goals of reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.