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Protecting Cyprus: The Urgent Battle Against Coastal Erosion

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 29, 2024

The coastlines of Cyprus face a significant threat from erosion, with some areas losing up to 50 centimeters annually. The Ministry of Transport has identified the urgent need to protect approximately 78 kilometers of coastline based on a comprehensive study.

Since 2012, various projects have been initiated, with significant work completed in Geroskipou, Germasogeia, Paphos, Larnaca, Pervolia, and Polis Chrysochous. Ongoing projects in Oroklini, Pervolion, and Chloraka are set for completion by 2024.

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Studies are also in progress for several other critical areas, including Cape Dolos to Tremitho River, Kourio Bay, and Agios Tychonas, among others. The coastal erosion issue has been apparent since the early 1980s, stemming from both natural factors like climate change and human activities such as coastal construction and river damming.

After the Turkish invasion, there has been a noticeable increase in demands for the improvement and development of Cyprus’s coastlines to boost tourism and the economy. In a 1993 study, the coastal zone was divided into 12 sub-regions, leading to various protection plans for areas like Larnaca and Limassol.

Scientists warn that by 2150, some regions, including parts of Limassol Bay and Larnaca, may face severe erosion and potential submersion. Climate Central’s research predicts that areas like the Lady’s Mile and Mackenzie Beach could be particularly vulnerable.

Despite these alarming projections, local officials believe the sea level won’t pose a significant threat in the next three decades, noting only a five-centimeter rise since 2000. The fluctuations in water levels are about 30 centimeters, but current trends suggest a receding coastline, minimizing immediate concerns.

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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.