Journey towards a sustainable future

We must integrate sustainable practices into our daily lives and transform into a modern, resource-efficient and competitive economy

By Antonia Theodosiou, Environment Specialist

My journey into environmental advocacy began long before I was appointed Environment Commissioner on 10 January 2024. My deep passion for the interaction between human development and nature was ignited during my studies and career, and has only grown stronger over the years.

My commitment to this cause goes beyond technical knowledge – it is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to protect the planet. The European Commission’s green transition goals and Green Deal strategy are not just about planting trees; it’s about integrating sustainable practices into our daily lives, transitioning to Build a resource-saving and competitive modern economic system This is fair and inclusive for all. We cannot expect to achieve meaningful results by making small changes and maintaining our current lifestyles. We need radical, transformative action.

I previously served as the project director for the Akamas Sustainable Management Program on behalf of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior, emphasizing the critical importance of sustainable development. This experience taught me that environmental initiatives must go hand in hand with community-led actions that benefit the environment and local residents, and it has profoundly influenced my approach to environmental stewardship.

When I took office, I immediately identified several key priorities to address the pressing environmental challenges we face. My primary goal was to achieve tangible results while adhering to established procedures. This included identifying and leveraging mechanisms that could improve human health and quality of life.

I am acutely aware of the weaknesses of our institutions, the limitations of government departments and services, and the needs of civil society. From this unique perspective, I am determined to combine interventions that drive legislative improvements and fill existing gaps with the resources at my disposal. My office is well-positioned to intervene effectively in policy development, using our understanding of systemic weaknesses and societal needs to implement legal reforms, practical measures, and community initiatives to drive positive change.

Last month, my office launched an ambitious project to achieve climate neutrality, starting in the picturesque and remote region of Telliriya. On June 1, 2024, we hosted an inspiring meeting in Telliriya, Pirgos, to bring together all stakeholders, local leaders, environmental experts and community individuals to develop a strategy for creating a climate-neutral Telliriya village complex.

Climate neutrality involves balancing carbon emissions with carbon removal or offsetting activities, such as the use of renewable energy, improved energy efficiency, sustainable transport, effective waste management, etc.

A highlight of the conference was the participation of distinguished representatives from the Municipality of Tilos, the world’s first zero-waste island, located in Greece, and a model energy community that relies almost entirely on renewable energy. Their achievements provided valuable insights and inspiration for our efforts in Tilos. Tilos was chosen because of its rich history, natural beauty and unique landscape, but mainly because it faces significant challenges from the Turkish invasion and ongoing occupation. These circumstances make it even more important to implement targeted actions and concerted efforts to highlight and revitalize it. Our goal is to expand this pilot climate neutrality concept to other regions, establishing a network of climate neutral communities in Cyprus in line with EU targets. Our vision is for each community to not only have the tools to prosper, but also to contribute actively to the fight against climate change.

In response to the climate crisis and biodiversity loss, we convened in Salamiu on 22 June 2024 to launch the Biosphere Reserves Initiative. This marks an important step towards redefining our relationship with nature and promoting sustainable coexistence between humanity and the environment.

The Salamiu meeting brought together prominent figures, including representatives of the local UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Office, the Ministries of Education and Agriculture, as well as Greek experts involved in MAB projects in the Astrucian and Parnon Mountains, to share their experiences.

UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme is a global promoter of sustainable socio-cultural and environmental development, demonstrating to the world that people can live a prosperous life while establishing a sustainable and harmonious relationship with nature. These protected areas are essential for promoting socio-cultural and environmentally sustainable economic development, cultural activities, nature restoration and management, biodiversity conservation, cultural diversity protection and local community development. They also promote scientific research, education and training, and attract people who love nature and cultural tourism.

The Diarissos-Xeros Valley, with its rich history, architecture, cultural heritage and remarkable biodiversity, is a prime candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. This candidature is further supported by the Salamiu Environmental Education Centre, part of the Cyprus Institute of Education’s Environmental Education Network, which serves as a centre for environmental education and awareness.

Looking ahead, we are excited about our upcoming project, the Pediaos River Festival, organised in conjunction with the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative and other partners. Cyprus’ rivers have traditionally been underestimated due to their seasonality, but now they are being recognised for their environmental and cultural significance. The Pediaos River is the longest river in Cyprus, flowing from the Troodos Mountains to the Bay of Famagusta. It offers unique attractions along its way and is a lung of life, providing important urban green spaces that support biodiversity.

The festival aims to raise awareness about river pollution, highlight the beauty of the Pediaos River and promote sustainable activities that strengthen environmental protection and cultural diversity in Nicosia, hoping to foster a deeper connection between people and the natural environment.

My Office’s commitment to a sustainable Cyprus is unwavering and we are constantly seeking effective mechanisms to protect and enhance our natural resources and the quality of life of our communities. Only if we work together can we create a prosperous, sustainable Cyprus for ourselves and future generations. Nature can protect us from the impacts of the climate crisis if us Protect and strengthen it.

————-

Antonia Theodosius Currently an environmental specialist and architect, she specializes in ecological architecture and restoration of architectural heritage monuments. International science Dry Stone Interdisciplinary Research Society (SPS), Vice-President of ICOMOS Cyprus Chapter, and member of national and international environmental and cultural associations and councils. She has co-authored books and guides on traditional architecture, environment, dry stone architecture, nature and culture of the Akamas Peninsula.