As part of our environmental sustainability initiatives, ES-KO is proud to contribute to the national The Frying Pan programme in Cyprus, a project that turns used cooking oil into biodiesel.
Through 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 established itself as the main source of collection of used oil used by the programme.
The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) has been recognized for its outstanding contributions to the program, with the UNPA International Cafeteria emerging as the primary source of used cooking oil collection.
The project, supported by more than 500 schools, companies and local authorities, promotes sustainable waste disposal and renewable energy production.
The harvested oil is filtered and processed through a process called transesterification, in which it is mixed with methanol and a catalyst to produce biodiesel and glycerine.
The benefit? Less reliance on fossil fuels, fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a new life for otherwise polluting waste.
To reinforce the educational message, on 19 February 2024, the Tiganokinisi Caravan – the mobile unit of the program – made a stop at the UNPA canteen with practical activities, workshops and demonstrations aimed at United Nations and ES-KO staff to raise awareness of good sustainable practices, from energy saving to composting.
This initiative exemplifies how everyday operational choices can actively support environmental sustainability. By promoting sustainable oil disposal and encouraging the circular use of resources, ES-KO strengthens its role as a responsible partner in sustainability-focused operations.
