Cyprus is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, said the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Dr. Maria Panagiotou, at an event of the Meteorology Department at the Radio Station in Athalassa, for World Meteorology Day.
The Minister noted that the Government is implementing a series of measures aimed at addressing climate change and improving resilience to its effects on the entire society.
He added that Cyprus, as an island state located in a "hot area" characterized by climate projections, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, rising sea levels and changing weather and traffic patterns pose serious threats to the environment, economy and society, he said.
The Minister pointed out that the Government, with the contribution of the Department of Meteorology, is implementing a series of measures aimed at dealing with climate change and improving resilience to its effects on the entire society. Strengthening scientific research, developing national adaptation strategies and informing and raising public awareness are key priorities for improving climate conditions, he said.
"In Cyprus, a country that often faces the consequences of the climate crisis, it is vital that we implement adaptation and resilience measures. It is necessary to strengthen our structures and implement solutions that will allow us to effectively manage climate risks, while improving the quality of life of our citizens", he underlined.
He set the strengthening of the climate resilience of natural ecosystems and the protection of biodiversity as essential priorities. As he said, through the regeneration and preservation of natural resources, such as wetlands and forests, we can deal with climate change, while maintaining the quality of water and air at high levels. Maintaining these natural barriers can provide significant protection against the effects of extreme weather events, while also strengthening economic resilience, he said.
“The need for an integrated approach to water resource management is also more pressing than ever. Adopting sustainable water use practices and developing water saving technologies are critical to ensuring water availability for all while protecting the environment,” he said.
In addition, Ms. Panagiotou noted that the participation and empowerment of society are essential elements for the success of any adaptation plan, with education and awareness being key pillars.
“Through the creation of an active and integrated management system, we can promote the changes needed for a more sustainable and climate-resilient society. Empowering local communities with knowledge and tools to address and adapt to climate change will enhance integrated risk management and preparedness for upcoming extreme weather events," he noted.
World Meteorological Day is celebrated every year on March 23, in commemoration of March 23, 1950, the day on which the Treaty establishing the World Meteorological Organization, a United Nations agency with sole responsibility for protection of human life and property from natural disasters caused by weather and climate.
The Agriculture Minister in her welcome speech said that meteorology is a science with vital applications, from weather forecasting and protection against extreme events, to supporting aviation, shipping, agriculture, law enforcement and supporting the government project to protect the natural environment.
He added that weather conditions across the planet over the past year point to the realization that we can no longer rest. The past nine consecutive months were also the warmest on record, he said, noting that the planet's average daily temperature on February 19, 2024 surpassed the landmark of 1,5 degrees Celsius above the industrial revolution average to reach 1,77 degree Celsius.
At the same time, the average temperature of the sea surface is unprecedented, the ice cover of the poles in both hemispheres has receded to the minimum level, while too many world records have been broken with a negative impact on the entire planet, he noted.
"Today we are faced with the necessity to react decisively to the challenge of the climate crisis. Climate change is no longer a threat of the distant future, but an undeniable reality with visible and immediate effects on humanity and our planet. That is why we must act collectively to prevent it or mitigate its effects on our daily lives", said the Minister.
He emphasized that the collective effort and determination to implement measures to adapt and deal with climate change is the only way to a sustainable and fair development in the future.
"Recognizing and integrating the need for climate resilience into our policies and strategies will ensure that Cyprus and Europe more broadly remain leaders in protecting their citizens and their well-being in an ever-changing world," he concluded.