Paphos collected 16,946 kilogrammes of used cooking oil from 36 schools as part of the ‘Frying Pan Movement’ for 2023-2024, generating profits of up to €8,459.

The initiative is run by NGO Akti in collaboration with the Cyprus Paedagogical Institute and the education ministry.

“Through the ‘Frying Pan Movement,’ we convert waste oil into biodiesel, provide financial resources for schools and students across Cyprus, and support environmental education and infrastructure,” programme manager for Paphos, Anna Tselepou, said on Thursday.

The movement operates in more than 500 schools across Cyprus to educate students on environmental sustainability. In Paphos, used cooking oil collection barrels have been placed at the Green Points in Koloni and Moutallos, as well as at three adult centres, the central post office, and Cyta.

Tselepou noted that collection barrels are now installed in 42 schools across Paphos.

“The quantities collected are impressive, and the financial support given to schools that Green Points have chosen to donate their proceeds to is significant,” she said.

This year, the selected schools are Evagoras Pallikaridis Primary School in Paphos and the 2nd Primary School of Geroskipou.

Additionally, 11 municipalities and communities, along with over 100 businesses in the catering sector, have set up collection barrels in prominent locations.

“Used cooking oil is converted from waste into biodiesel, helping prevent environmental damage that would occur if it were disposed of in sewers, the ground, or general waste,” Tselepou added.