Environmental groups express concern over Akamas forest park management

The environmental organizations BirdLife Cyprus, Terra Cypria, and OPOK have issued a joint statement criticizing the Ministry of Agriculture's management of the Akamas National Forest Park. Following a recent meeting with the Director General of the Environment, the groups stated they were informed of pre-determined plans without room for meaningful discussion or evaluation of their submitted positions. The organizations argue that this process lacks transparency and participation. They noted that the first phase of the Sustainable Development Plan for the park, which began in December 2022, involved the upgrading of three major roads. During this phase, violations of legally binding environmental terms were identified by various authorities, with the exception of the Department of Forests. These violations led to the submission of supplementary special ecological assessment reports. Subsequently, the Council of Ministers issued decisions aimed at restoring environmental damage and preventing future occurrences. The environmental groups characterize this as a systemic issue where state commitments remain largely unfulfilled.