In February 2025, as part of its ongoing environmental sustainability initiatives, ES-KO proudly supported Cyprus’ national Frying Pan programme, an innovative project that transforms used cooking oil into biodiesel.
In collaboration with UNFICYP — the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus — the canteen located in the United Nations Protected Area (UNPA), managed by ES-KO staff, has become the programme’s primary source of used cooking oil collection.
UNFICYP has been recognized for its outstanding contribution to this initiative, with the UNPA International Cafeteria standing out as a leading contributor. The project, which also involves more than 500 schools, companies, and local authorities, promotes responsible waste disposal while supporting renewable energy production.
Collected oil undergoes filtering and transesterification, a process in which it is mixed with methanol and a catalyst to produce biodiesel and glycerin. The result: reduced dependence on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and a valuable new use for what would otherwise be harmful waste.
To strengthen the programme’s educational impact, on 19 February 2024 the Tiganokinisi Caravan — the project’s mobile awareness unit — visited the UNPA canteen, offering hands-on activities, workshops, and demonstrations for UN and ES-KO staff. These sessions highlighted sustainable practices, from energy-saving measures to composting.
This initiative illustrates how thoughtful operational decisions can directly advance environmental sustainability. By promoting responsible oil disposal and encouraging the circular use of resources, ES-KO continues to demonstrate its commitment to being a responsible and sustainability-focused partner.
