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As part of the “Women for the Green Transition” project, an educational study visit was organized to environmentally responsible businesses across Cyprus. The participants had the opportunity to observe first-hand the sustainable practices implemented by each business, receive practical advice on how to adopt similar approaches in their own businesses or daily lives, and see how supporting environmentally responsible enterprises benefits both our wallets and the planet.

The first stop was in Kalavasos, Larnaca District, where the participants were welcomed by Andreas and Simoni Vassiliou, owners of Charalambos Holiday Cottage. This agritourism accommodation, with a Green Key, is an outstanding example of sustainable hospitality in Cyprus, successfully implementing a comprehensive range of environmentally friendly practices. The accommodation has significantly reduced its environmental footprint by completely eliminating single-use plastics and operating a saltwater swimming pool that is maintained without chemical treatments. In terms of energy efficiency, it relies on solar and heating panels and uses energy-saving LED lighting throughout the property. The business also follows circular economy principles to minimize and properly manage waste. Furthermore, it actively supports the local community by sourcing products from local producers and promoting the work of local women artisans through its handmade crafts shop KORI.

The second visit took place at Nature’s Aroma, a natural cosmetics workshop located in Agios Athanasios, Limassol. The owner, Andreas Antoniou, explained that all of the products are 100% natural and handmade, free from chemical additives and preservatives. The business further reduces its environmental footprint by using eco-friendly packaging and sourcing high-quality raw materials, including olive oil and bee products, exclusively from Cypriot producers. During the visit, participants had the opportunity to try the products and learn about their natural properties and benefits.

The next stop was Mersini Goat Farm, a family-owned goat farm and traditional dairy in Choulou, Paphos District. As explained by the owner, Giannos Fkiaras, the business operates according to the “farm-to-table” philosophy. The farm applies sustainable free-grazing practices that not only improve animal welfare and the quality of goat feed but also contribute to the creation of natural firebreak zones, helping to reduce wildfire risks in the surrounding area. The farm also hosts hands-on traditional cheesemaking workshops. During the visit, participants discussed green transition practices with the owner, toured the production facilities, and sampled traditional halloumi cheese and flaouna cheese.

The study visit continued at Giannakis Mills 1935, a traditional flour mill in Giolou, Paphos District. Andreas and Giannakis, the son and grandson of the founder, guided participants through the historic mill and explained how the family business continues to produce authentic Cypriot products using traditional milling methods. Their products include flour, cracked wheat (burghul), and pulses, all offered at affordable prices. Notably, this is the only traditional flour mill in Cyprus that continues to operate using this historic production method.

The final stop was The Makers Space in Polemi, Paphos District. This innovative collaborative arts and crafts hub serves as both a creative studio and a community space for local artists and makers. Participants explored the monthly Makers Market, met local artisans, and discovered how sustainable art and craftsmanship are promoted through locally made products and creative collaboration. The visit aimed to support the local micro-economy while showcasing the work of talented local creators.

The “Women for the Green Transition” project is implemented by the Laona Foundation and the Women’s Association of Rural Larnaca under the Grants for Change 2025 programme. Grants for Change 2025 is an initiative of the ENA Foundation, designed to strengthen local communities by supporting sustainable and socially innovative projects.

For more information here.