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Tag: environmental impact

  • Sahara Dust Episode Hits Cyprus with Record Levels

    Sahara Dust Episode Hits Cyprus with Record Levels

    sahara dust — The Sahara dust episode has reached Cyprus, bringing record-high concentrations that have significantly impacted air quality and visibility across the island. The Cyprus Atmospheric Remote Sensing Observatory (CARO), part of the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence, reported on Tuesday that dust levels in the lower atmosphere exceeded 2,000 μgr/m³.

    • The observatory continues to monitor the dust concentrations and provide updates as the situation evolves, emphasising the need for public awareness and precautionary measures.

    The dense particles are primarily concentrated within the first two kilometres above ground, causing vertical visibility to drop to less than one kilometre. This phenomenon, which began in recent days, is expected to peak in Limassol during Tuesday evening, as indicated by the MONARCH dust forecast model.

    According to CARO, ground-level dust concentrations could reach 500 μgr/m³, a staggering ten times higher than the safety limits set by the Department of Labour Inspection. The observatory noted, “The current episode significantly affects air quality and visibility.”

    Weather conditions have contributed to this dust storm, with a system that has also brought rainfall to some areas of Cyprus. Meteorologists predict this may lead to “wet deposition,” a process where rain helps to clear the suspended dust from the atmosphere more rapidly.

    While the dust is expected to gradually dissipate by Thursday morning, another wave of dust is anticipated to return later that evening, prolonging the adverse conditions. In light of these events, the Department of Labour Inspection has advised vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities during this period.

    Employers are also urged to implement necessary measures to safeguard workers exposed to outdoor conditions. The situation has escalated as cities like Paphos and Larnaca experience dust levels triple the legal limit.

    The observatory continues to monitor the dust concentrations and provide updates as the situation evolves, emphasising the need for public awareness and precautionary measures.

  • Uncontrolled Fire Rages Near Kili, Paphos Community Leader Reports

    Uncontrolled Fire Rages Near Kili, Paphos Community Leader Reports

    uncontrolled fire — The uncontrolled fire continues to blaze between Kili and Stroumbi in the Paphos district, with local community leader Michalis Efthymiou highlighting the challenges faced by fire crews. The fire ignited around 10am and has since posed difficulties for fire trucks attempting to reach the site.

    As it stands, seven fire trucks from the Paphos district have been mobilised to tackle the flames. Fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis confirmed that additional support includes two fire engines and a specialised team from the Emak unit, which is trained to access difficult terrain. The forestry department has also dispatched one fire engine and two earthmovers, with two more earthmovers leased from the provincial administration to assist in the firefighting efforts.

    To enhance coordination, an advanced control centre has been established in Stroumbi’s central square. Kettis noted that an active fire front has reignited to the west and is advancing northwest, prompting the redirection of significant resources to contain the blaze.

    On the ground, the Limassol district fire chief is already present, while the operations director will be arriving shortly. A helicopter from the air operations unit is en route to provide aerial support, and organised volunteer groups have been enlisted to bolster extinguishing efforts. Despite these measures, Efthymiou expressed concern over the lack of available aircraft, stating that more should have been deployed to manage the situation effectively.

    Efthymiou described the devastation caused by the fire, which has ravaged many years of cypress forest. He emphasised that the fire broke out in an area so remote that it could only have been ignited by someone on foot, attributing the incident to human factors. However, he assured that the homes within both communities are not under threat.

    The Kili community leader also pointed out the unusual timing of such fires occurring in November, attributing it to abnormally high temperatures experienced on that day. The situation remains dynamic, and local officials are working tirelessly to combat the flames and safeguard the surrounding areas.

  • Controversy Surrounds Tree Management at Nicosia’s Academy Forest Park

    Controversy Surrounds Tree Management at Nicosia’s Academy Forest Park

    The tree management practices at Nicosia’s Academy Forest Park, also known as Alsos Forest, have come under scrutiny. Former Movement of Ecologists-Citizens’ Cooperation Party leader George Perdikis has raised concerns about the recent cutting and pruning of approximately sixty trees in the park, questioning the transparency of the Forestry Department’s operations.

    Located between the municipalities of Aglantzia and Nicosia, the 45-hectare park is a beloved green space, only two kilometres from the city centre. Established in the early 20th century, it was originally a wetland area transformed by the British colonial government, which introduced eucalyptus trees to manage water levels. Today, the park is a habitat of various plant species and wildlife.

    On 16 October, the Forestry Department announced planned works in the park, which would occur throughout October and November. These include playground maintenance, flood prevention measures as part of the Holistic Water Management Plan, and forestry interventions aimed at fire protection.

    However, Perdikis expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of information provided by the Forestry Department. He stated that despite his inquiry about the number of trees to be felled, he had yet to receive a response. “I have visited the area and have the impression that the cutting of eucalyptus trees (approximately 20) and the drastic pruning of another 40 or so is being done almost arbitrarily,” he noted in a Facebook post.

    The former party leader highlighted a significant absence of detailed planning from the department, including layouts and cross-section drawings of the affected areas. He pointed out that the process seemed to bypass the necessary Environmental Impact Assessments, raising questions about the approval from the Environmental Authority. “For all the above reasons, despite the fact that the work appears to be necessary, unfortunately a crisis has been caused through the fault of the Forestry Department,” Perdikis added.

    In response to the backlash, the Forestry Department issued a clarification on 26 October, stating that the flood prevention works are part of the Cyprus Flood Risk Management Plan. This initiative aims to control flood flows from the Kateva River, protect residential areas downstream, and retain rainwater within the park to combat drought.

    The department assured the public that the decision to create a retention lake covering 3.8 decares was based on thorough hydrological studies aimed at minimising the environmental impact. They emphasised the project’s role in addressing significant flooding issues while also enhancing the park’s natural environment.

    Despite these reassurances, Perdikis warned that the park remains vulnerable to fires due to unmanaged biomass, including dry branches, grass, and debris. He recounted instances where citizens intervened to extinguish fires during summer, highlighting a lack of automatic monitoring systems. “There was no timely intervention,” he remarked, raising further concerns about the park’s ongoing safety.

    Calling for a more collaborative approach, Perdikis urged the Forestry Department to engage with local organisations and citizens for cooperation on safeguarding the Pedagogical Academy forest. He acknowledged the importance of the department’s role, especially in light of discussions about its potential dissolution by the government, and expressed hope for a more transparent and informed management of the park in the future.

  • Pentakomo Fish Farming Port Clarified by Authorities

    Pentakomo Fish Farming Port Clarified by Authorities

    The planned fish farming port at Pentakomo has been misrepresented in recent reports, prompting officials to clarify its purpose and scale. Authorities on Monday moved to quash speculation that the project has spiralled into a massive operation that could jeopardise marine habitats and endangered species.

    • Despite the assurances from authorities, there is an ongoing administrative appeal filed by NGOs against the project. The outcomes of the upcoming court hearings are anticipated shortly.

    In a joint statement, the departments of fisheries, the environment, and public works addressed claims that the facility had expanded from a simple fishing harbour to what was described as a “mammoth port”. Officials labelled such reports as inaccurate, emphasising the importance of addressing the “spread of misinformation” regarding the project.

    The departments confirmed that the fishing complex, once completed, is expected to handle over 50 per cent of the national production of fishery products. This will include both sea and land infrastructures, designed specifically to support local aquaculture.

    Contrary to claims of disproportionate scale, the port will accommodate only 35 vessels, a figure that is notably lower than most existing fishing shelters. This specification was reiterated by the departments, who assured that the project remains within the parameters set in the contract.

    All necessary permits, including environmental and construction-related approvals, have been secured. “Based on the scientific assessment carried out by experts, no major or irreversible adverse impacts on marine species or habitats are expected,” the statement continued, highlighting a commitment to responsible development.

    To mitigate any potential environmental impacts, the contractor is adhering to strict guidelines, including the installation of silt curtains in the affected area. Furthermore, experts have confirmed that there will be no significant impacts on the monk seal population in the region.

    An external environmental inspector has been appointed to oversee the project, ensuring compliance with environmental standards. The contractor is also required to submit regular environmental reports to maintain transparency and accountability.

    On land, the infrastructure developments will proceed as planned, with no alterations to the original design. This project, which is set to enhance aquaculture facilities in Pentakomo, follows a contract worth nearly €34 million signed in October 2024 between the government and a private consortium.

    The initiative includes the construction of port and land facilities that will support aquaculture farmers in the area. Specific features will comprise breakwaters made from natural and artificial boulders, the dredging of a new port basin, docks, and various buildings.

    Despite the assurances from authorities, there is an ongoing administrative appeal filed by NGOs against the project. The outcomes of the upcoming court hearings are anticipated shortly.

  • Tepak farm — Tepak Farm Faces €80,000 Repairs After Wildfire Devastation

    Tepak farm — Tepak Farm Faces €80,000 Repairs After Wildfire Devastation

    Tepak farm, part of the Cyprus University of Technology, is facing significant repair costs of approximately €80,000 following damage from a recent wildfire in Limassol.

    • Tepak farm, part of the Cyprus University of Technology, is facing significant repair costs of approximately €80,000 following damage from a recent wildfire in Limassol.

    A detailed report, prepared by the Department of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology and Food Science, has been submitted to the university’s rectorate. Professor Demetris Tsaltas indicated that the funds are primarily needed for replacing equipment destroyed in the blaze.

    Tepak farm: Wildfire’s Impact on Agriculture

    The wildfire, which broke out on July 23 in the wine villages of Limassol, affected the farm’s 16 hectares of cultivated land, including greenhouses, offices, and storage areas. While many of the crops, such as vineyards and fruit-bearing plants, escaped direct contact with the flames, the extreme temperatures scorched the exterior of some plants.

    Assessing Damage and Recovery

    Professor Tsaltas explained that the situation remains fluid, as the coming weeks will reveal which plants can be salvaged and which need to be replaced. He expressed concern that this year’s production will suffer losses, along with potential impacts on next year’s yields.

    Students conducting research projects at the farm have also been affected. To mitigate the damage, efforts are underway to manually water some plants, enabling students to continue their work despite the adversity.

    Plans for Restoration

    The aim is to minimise disruption to research and teaching at the farm, with hopes to restore operations by the 2026–27 academic year. The speed at which restoration funds are released will play a critical role in purchasing necessary equipment and materials.

    Initial inspections have revealed some positive signs, with certain trees showing signs of life despite their damaged appearance. However, Tsaltas cautioned that determining the true extent of recovery will require weeks or even months. The forthcoming winter and spring months are seen as crucial for the farm’s resurgence.

    Environmental Concerns

    In addition to the visible damage, Tsaltas noted potential long-term impacts on soil quality due to pollutants from the fire. Concerns have been raised regarding toxic substances that may leach into groundwater, posing further challenges for future cultivation.

    The Role of Sustainable Practices

    In discussions surrounding fire prevention, Tsaltas highlighted the importance of maintaining well-cultivated areas. He mentioned that isolated crops surrounded by uncultivated land could limit fire spread, but stressed that heat stress would still affect production. Maintaining agricultural areas is vital to preserving their character and reducing vulnerability to such disasters.

    Moreover, grazing practices can assist in managing low vegetation, reducing the risk of future fires. As efforts to restore Tepak farm continue, the focus will remain on sustainable agricultural practices to safeguard against future threats.