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Protecting Cyprus: The Urgent Battle Against Coastal Erosion

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.

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.

EU Moderates Emissions While Sustaining Economic Momentum

The European Union witnessed a modest decline in greenhouse gas emissions in the second quarter of 2025, as reported by Eurostat. Emissions across the EU registered at 772 million tonnes of CO₂-equivalents, marking a 0.4 percent reduction from 775 million tonnes in the same period of 2024. Concurrently, the EU’s gross domestic product rose by 1.3 percent, reinforcing the ongoing decoupling between economic growth and environmental impact.

Sector-By-Sector Performance

Within the broader statistics on emissions by economic activity, the energy sector—specifically electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply—experienced the most significant drop, declining by 2.9 percent. In comparison, the manufacturing sector and transportation and storage both achieved a 0.4 percent reduction. However, household emissions bucked the trend, increasing by 1.0 percent over the same period.

National Highlights And Notable Exceptions

Among EU member states, 12 reported a reduction in emissions, while 14 saw increases, and Estonia’s figures remained static. Notably, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Finland recorded the most pronounced declines at 8.6 percent, 5.9 percent, and 4.2 percent respectively. Of the 12 countries reducing emissions, three—Finland, Germany, and Luxembourg—also experienced a contraction in GDP growth.

Dual Achievement: Environmental And Economic Goals

In an encouraging development, nine member states, including Cyprus, managed to lower their emissions while maintaining economic expansion. This dual achievement—reducing environmental impact while fostering economic activity—is a trend that has increasingly influenced EU climate policies. Other nations that successfully balanced these outcomes include Austria, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovenia, and Sweden.

Conclusion

As the EU continues to navigate its climate commitments, these quarterly insights underscore a gradual yet significant shift toward balancing emissions reductions with robust economic growth. The evolving landscape highlights the critical need for sustainable strategies that not only mitigate environmental risks but also invigorate economic resilience.

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