Nicosia is tackling its scorching summer heat by boosting tree coverage and implementing various initiatives, such as portable shades, indoor vegetation, and communal cooling centers. With only four percent of its area shaded by trees, the city’s move towards a greener future aims to combat the urban heat island effect and create a more habitable environment for its residents.
The tourism industry in Cyprus is grappling with the impacts of climate change, leading to bankruptcies and closures. Industry leaders are advocating for a dynamic approach that focuses on sustainability, statesupported education, tax incentives, and digital and green transitions to ensure longterm prosperity.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis stresses the importance of sustainable tourism in Cyprus, focusing on respecting natural and cultural resources. In efforts to combat seasonality and climate change impacts, key strategies include enhancing air connectivity, vocational training, digital transformation, private sector collaboration, and regional balance in the tourism sector.
The Earth Hour celebration at Faneromeni Square in Nicosia is a powerful display of environmental commitment and sustainability. By switching off lights for one hour on March 23rd, the community showcases its dedication to combating climate change and embracing ecofriendly practices, highlighting the urgent need for global action.
Hazy skies and mild temperatures dominate this week’s weather forecast. Inland areas will reach a comfortable 26C, while coastal regions and mountain areas will experience slightly cooler conditions. Winds will be light to moderate, and caution is advised for maritime activities due to rough sea conditions. Evening temperatures will drop, with clearer weather expected.
Cyprus faces urgent climate change impacts, prompting the government to implement comprehensive adaptation strategies. From enhancing scientific research to fostering community involvement and aligning economic strategies with environmental sustainability, Cyprus is taking proactive steps to address the challenges of a changing climate.
Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou is urging for significant lifestyle changes to combat climate change, emphasizing the need for increased use of renewable energy sources and better management of ecological sites like Natura 2000. She stresses that superficial changes won’t be enough a complete overhaul of habits and comfort levels is required for real impact.
Cyprus is bracing for a sudden weather shift in winter 2024, with the Cyprus Meteorological Service forecasting adverse conditions from late January 6th until the following evening. This includes a potential storm, prompting residents and tourists to stay informed and prepared, as the island’s mild winter climate faces an unexpected interlude.
The LIFE AgrOassis project in Cyprus, cofunded by the European Union, aims to combat desertification by planting 11,000 deeprooted trees and shrubs by 2026. This initiative seeks to create vegetative barriers, revitalize agricultural lands, and fortify agroecosystems against climate change, while involving the community to enhance ecological awareness for a sustainable future.
The Fire Service is upgrading its resources and technology to combat the increasing threat of wildfires and extreme weather events caused by climate change. Justice Minister Anna Procopiou highlighted the importance of specialized training programs and expressed gratitude to firefighters for their dedication and sacrifices in protecting citizens and their properties, giving reassurance of their ability to adapt and respond to the challenges ahead.
