Doing business in Cyprus: Sustainability
04 April 2012by Ina Dimireva -- last modified 05 April 2012
This guide summarizes sustainability standards in Cyprus.
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Legal requirements
Pioneering businesses can develop environmental practices that go beyond legal requirements.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Social Responsibility is when businesses voluntarily incorporate social and environmental concerns within business activities over and above their legal obligations.
Standards
The Eco Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is a voluntary EU label designed to allow organisations to evaluate, manage and improve their environmental contribution.
The Environment Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment is responsible for administering the European eco labels in Cyprus. Products covered by the label include everyday consumer goods (except for food, beverages and pharmaceuticals) and services.
The law requires businesses to comply with minimum social and environmental rules.
Administrative procedures
Environmental management standards
For a European eco label to be awarded in Cyprus, the manufacturer or importer must submit the appropriate application to the responsible department within the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment.
Occupational safety management standards
In accordance with legislation on Health and Safety at Work issued by the Department of Labour Inspection of the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, employers must use an appropriate risk management system. All organisations complying with the OHSAS 18001 standard are considered to fulfil this obligation.
Department of Labour Inspection
Resources
The Energy Institute of Cyprus was founded to promote the management and rightful use of energy and also to develop renewable energy resources. The institute aims to increase the use of economically viable energy technologies.
Programmes
The Special Fund Management Committee of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism offers grants to businesses for energy saving investments, e.g. substituting conventional fuels with renewable energy sources, use of biomass, etc.
Grant schemes to encourage the use of wind and solar energy, as well as biomass and biogas
Doing business in Cyprus: Environmental rules
Doing business in Cyprus: Staff welfare
Source: European Commission