In a crucial teleconference held today, Wednesday, 30 July 2025, Leros Mayor Timotheos Kottakis participated alongside the Secretary-General for Waste Management, Manolis Grafakos, the South Aegean Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarkos, and other mayors from islands with populations under 10,000. The focus of the discussion was advancing solid waste management projects.
Leros Landfill: The Landmark Project Set to Transform the Island
According to reports, it was officially confirmed that the construction of the Sanitary Landfill for Residual Waste (SLRW) on Leros will be completed by September 2026. This flagship project will put an end to years of waste management challenges on the island.
Simultaneously, a new, state-of-the-art waste compactor will be inaugurated, replacing the existing one to ensure more efficient waste processing.
Additionally, full remediation will take place at the old Uncontrolled Waste Disposal Site (UWDS), where approximately 17,000 tonnes of compacted waste remain. The disposal process will follow strict safety measures in line with EU and national regulations.
Modern Recycling and Organic Waste Bins
By September 2026, the Municipality of Leros will install new bins for three waste categories: paper, aluminium, and organic waste. Of particular importance are the “brown bins” for organic waste, including food scraps, peels, leaves, and small branches. Funding for the bins will be provided by the Ministry of Environment through the South Aegean Solid Waste Management Fund (FoDSA).
“Green Points”: A New Era for the Circular Economy
Strategically located across the island, “Green Points” will allow residents and visitors to dispose of non-standard waste items. These include branches, old furniture, electrical appliances, tyres, clothing, and even cooking oil.
This initiative is a key pillar of Leros’ strategy for a circular economy and integrated waste management. It is expected to dramatically improve the island’s environmental quality of life.
Mayor Timotheos Kottakis: “Prioritising the Environment for Future Generations”
The Mayor of Leros, Timotheos Kottakis, told LEROS NEWS:
“Comprehensive waste management is a fundamental priority for us. With the SLRW, the remediation of the UWDS, the new bins, and the Green Points, we are building a modern system that will transform life on Leros. I thank the Ministry of Environment, Regional Governor and FoDSA President Giorgos Hatzimarkos, and all our partners for their unwavering support.”