Wetlands, both natural and artificial, are among the most productive ecosystems on the planet. They host an enormous variety of species, act as natural water “filters,” reduce flood risk, store carbon dioxide, and support activities such as fisheries and ecotourism.
Yet wetlands are being destroyed and lost at an alarming rate. More than one third of the world’s wetlands have been degraded in recent decades, and many species that depend on them are now at risk.
In Cyprus, even our most important wetlands (Akrotiri Wetland, Larnaca Salt Lakes, Paralimni Lake, etc.) are not simply neglected — they have been turned into sewage disposal sites, dumping grounds, airports, motocross tracks, shooting ranges, landfill areas, and construction zones.
The protection, and especially the restoration, of our island’s wetlands is critical for the resilience of our ecosystems in the face of climate change.
Terra Cypria has repeatedly highlighted the pressures and threats facing our wetlands. Unfortunately, the competent authorities continue to refuse to take responsibility by implementing measures that truly protect these sensitive areas.
We call on all responsible bodies who genuinely want us to keep celebrating World Wetlands Day to take immediate action for the management, restoration, and protection of Cyprus’ wetlands.
For those who would like to learn more about Cyprus’ wetlands, you can visit http://www.cypruswetlands.org/, the first comprehensive wetland inventory of the entire island, completed in 2014. It recorded 373 wetlands across Cyprus and created a database that remains an important tool for research and management today.
