Despite the impressive development of water resources in recent decades, water scarcity remains an inherent problem in Cyprus, with drought periods constantly intensifying.
Hydrological Data and Climate Instability
Cyprus has been experiencing intense rainfall instability in recent years. For the hydrological year 2023-24, rainfall is below average, with the country experiencing its fourth consecutive year of drought and dams filling at just 10-11%.
Impacts on the Primary and Tertiary Sectors
Water scarcity and climate change have serious consequences for all sectors of the economy:
- Agriculture: Immediate reduction in production, loss of arable land, skyrocketing costs and forced restructuring of crops.
- Livestock: Shrinking pastures increases production costs, leading to a dramatic reduction in livestock.
- Tourism: Imposition of restrictions on consumption, degradation of the natural landscape and a significant increase in operating costs in businesses. Ways to Address Water Scarcity
Since its establishment, the Republic of Cyprus has been systematically investing in the water sector, addressing water scarcity mainly through construction of dams for rainwater storage and wastewater recycling.
Due to the critical nature of water scarcity in Cyprus, it is necessary to investigate citizens' perceptions of water management. This article, through questionnaires and interviews, records the trends that shape their attitudes towards water conservation.
The Impact of Water Scarcity on the Cypriot Flour Industry – Hatzigiorkis Mills
Hatzigiorkis Flour Mills cover a large part of Cyprus' needs, despite the extremely limited domestic grain production. Cyprus covers only 3-5% of the company's needs, which is forced to import 90-100 thousand tons of wheat annually, mainly from Europe.
Water is the determining factor in Cypriot production. Drought causes dramatic fluctuations, with the annual harvest ranging from a record low of 2.000 tons to 20.000. This deficit necessitates the flour industry to turn to imports of raw materials from abroad.
In terms of quality, drought brings variations. If the wheat is not well hydrated, there can be a reduction in quality and its use in products that require specific properties can be avoided. Paradoxically, however, low rainfall can enhance the flavor of Cypriot wheat, as the soil is not washed away, allowing the grain to absorb more ingredients such as potassium, iron and various vitamins.
To manage this situation, the company is working with producers, advising them on seed selection and varietal stabilization. At the same time, the milling process is being adjusted at the mills.
The biggest problem that the Cypriot flour industry will face in the coming years, due to climate change, is the ongoing water shortage. Finally, the message sent by the representatives of the Mills is that water will be the most critical problem of the future, and for this reason, saving water is a basic daily goal for everyone, as this action benefits the entire country.
Agriculture & Climate Change: The Battle for Water in Cyprus
Farmer Nikolas Assiotis, who has been cultivating onions, potatoes and squash in the Famagusta district for 44 years, highlighted the serious impacts of water shortages and climate change on the Cypriot agricultural sector.
According to him, the lack of water has led to reduction in production, as it is forced to plant fewer acres than in the past. To address water scarcity, it implements conservation practices, such as night irrigation to avoid evaporation, while in potato cultivation it chooses fast-growing varieties to reduce the need for water. However, Mr. Assiotis stressed that the biggest problem is the climate instability, as intense and sudden rainfalls destroy crops, instead of benefiting them. At the same time, he pointed out the economic difficulties, stating that the cost of irrigation reaches 350 €/decade, an amount significantly higher than those who have access to the main pipeline. This increased cost, as he said, is passed on to the consumer.
Finally, he appealed to young people to adopt water saving methods, emphasizing that this is the only way for the sector to survive in Cyprus.
Water scarcity in Cyprus: What research reveals to students and parents
The analysis of the questionnaire responses shows that water scarcity is recognized as a serious and existing problem in Cyprus. The majority of participants believe that water scarcity affects the region to a large extent, which demonstrates increased concern among the local community.
A particularly important finding is that the impacts of water scarcity are considered to be more pronounced in agriculture, with almost all participants stating that agricultural production is affected a lot or quite a lot. This highlights the high dependence of the primary sector on water resources. Correspondingly, the majority acknowledges that water scarcity also has impacts on livestock farming, mainly through increased costs and reduced availability of feed and water.
At the same time, many participants believe that water scarcity negatively affects the local economy, while the impact on tourism is considered to be real but secondary in relation to agriculture. It is noteworthy that, although many declare themselves moderately informed about the issue, there is a high willingness to change daily habits to save water.
Finally, responsibility for water scarcity is mainly attributed collectively (state, local authorities and citizens), while information and awareness-raising, investment in infrastructure and water saving are proposed as the most important measures, confirming the need for holistic and sustainable management of water resources.
Water scarcity in Cyprus is a constant challenge that affects not only the environment but also the economy and society as a whole. Despite the significant investments and infrastructure that have been created, climate change and prolonged droughts require continuous adaptation and innovative solutions. Sustainable management of water resources, strengthening cooperation between the state, businesses and citizens, as well as the adoption of new technologies, are decisive factors in ensuring water sufficiency and protecting the future of the country.
Πηγές
- Ekathimerini Cyprus (2025). Cyprus dam levels at just 11%.
- Cyprus Mail (2025). Cyprus steps up desalination as worsening droughts plague the island.
- Euronews Green (2025). Audit reveals weaknesses and delays in Cyprus' water management plan.
- European Commission (2023). Water Framework Directive – Cyprus Country Report.
- European Environment Agency (2022). Water scarcity and drought in Europe.
- Giannakopoulos, C. et al. (2020). Climate change projections for the Eastern Mediterranean. Regional Environmental Change.
- Water Development Department (2023). Annual Water Report.
- Zoumides, C. & Zachariadis, T. (2014). Water scarcity and sustainable water management in Cyprus.Water International.
