A new mulching pilot program was launched in the Lefke community on 7 November 2007 with technical assistance from the USAID-funded Supporting Activities that Value the Environment (SAVE) project. The pilot mulching project will dispose of tree and branch trimmings by converting them into organic mulch that will be made available to local residents free of charge.

Orchards and gardens produce a large quantity of debris and waste that needs to be disposed of on a regular basis. Mulching is an effective way to recycle this material and is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to improve gardens. It returns nutrients to the soil, conserves water, prevents weed growth and soil erosion and alleviates pressure on landfills. Mulching also offers an alternative to burning the cuttings and dead trees—a practice that can, among other things, damage the soil. SAVE works to build local capacity to better protect and manage Cyprus’ valuable natural and cultural resources.

SAVE combines work on environmental protection with cultural heritage conservation, preservation, and restoration. Like all U.S.-funded programs in Cyprus, SAVE is aimed at improving the conditions that will foster a durable Cyprus settlement.