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Cyprus’s Progress On Sustainable Development Goals: Lagging Behind In The EU And Worldwide

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 2, 2024

In a recent report, Cyprus has been ranked last among EU member states and 58th globally in terms of progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This ranking highlights significant challenges that the island nation faces in achieving these globally agreed targets aimed at promoting economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

Understanding the Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals, established by the United Nations in 2015, consist of 17 interconnected goals designed to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and peace and justice. Each member state is expected to integrate these goals into their national policies and strategies to ensure a sustainable future for all.

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Cyprus’s Current Standing

The report’s findings that Cyprus ranks last in the EU and 58th globally are a wake-up call for policymakers, businesses, and civil society. This position indicates that while Cyprus has made some strides, significant gaps remain in various areas critical to sustainable development.

Key Areas of Concern

Environmental Sustainability: One of the most pressing areas where Cyprus is lagging is environmental sustainability. The island faces challenges related to waste management, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. The reliance on fossil fuels and the slow adoption of renewable energy sources further exacerbate environmental concerns.
Economic Inequality: Economic disparities persist within the Cypriot society, affecting access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Addressing these inequalities is crucial for achieving the SDGs, which emphasise inclusive economic growth and social equity.
Climate Action: Cyprus’s efforts in mitigating climate change need significant enhancement. Despite global commitments to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a green economy, Cyprus has been slow in implementing comprehensive climate action policies. This sluggish progress impacts its ability to meet international climate targets.
Sustainable Cities and Communities: Urban areas in Cyprus face challenges related to sustainable development, including inadequate public transport systems, urban sprawl, and insufficient green spaces. Improving urban planning and infrastructure is essential for creating sustainable cities and communities.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.