Air pollution in Cyprus is becoming one of the most pressing environmental and social problems in recent years.
According to data presented by the President of the Cyprus Institute, Dr. Stavros Malas, the content of fine PM 2.5 particles in the atmosphere not only significantly exceeds permissible standards, but also leads to premature death, reduced life expectancy and significant economic losses.
Malas presented his findings at a meeting of the parliamentary home affairs committee, where the construction and expansion of a new road through the Athalassa National Forest Park in Aglanja was discussed. The scientist emphasized that the level of air pollution in Cyprus remains critically high and has not shown any improvement over the past ten years - unlike most countries of the European Union.
Particularly alarming figures were recorded in Nicosia: the concentration of PM 2.5 particles here is 50% higher than in Paris. According to experts, in 2023, damage from air pollution amounted to about 3.7% of the country's GDP, and mortality from diseases caused by inhalation of microparticles remains one of the highest in Europe.
The European Union has already approved new, stricter air quality standards that will come into force in 2026. The permissible concentration of PM 2.5 particles will be reduced from 25 to 10 micrograms per cubic meter. However, according to the National Air Monitoring Network, the average in Cyprus is already reaching 15 micrograms - that is, significantly higher than the upcoming norm.
This means the country will have to take immediate action to reduce emissions, especially from road transport, which remains the main source of pollution in cities. Without decisive steps, Cyprus risks facing not only environmental, but also socio-economic consequences.
Of particular concern is the road widening project through the Athalassa National Forest Park. According to research, the implementation of the project will lead to an increase in PM 2.5 concentrations by more than 2.5 times, which, according to NASA and the European Environment Agency (EEA), could reduce the average life expectancy of Aglanji residents by six to twelve months.
Children are most at risk, including students from the Franco-Cypriot School of Nicosia, located just meters from the planned route. Scientists warn that in addition to the threat to health, the road project will lead to deforestation, destruction of the ecosystem and loss of natural balance - consequences that may become irreversible.
Experts emphasize that Cyprus needs to immediately reconsider its approach to urban planning and ecology. The priority should not be new roads, but environmentally friendly solutions: the development of public transport, the introduction of electric vehicles, increasing the number of green areas and tightening emissions controls.
Malas recalled that the fight against air pollution is not only a matter of health, but also a matter of the future of the country. Without decisive action, Cyprus risks losing not only its clear skies, but also the quality of life of its citizens.
Source: in-cyprus.philenews.com
