Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou and European Commissioner for the Environment Jessika Roswall said on Thursday that water consumption needs to be reduced across the EU, with particular emphasis on Cyprus, under the European strategy for water resilience.
Meetings ahead of informal EU environment council
Panayiotou and Roswall discussed water resilience, the circular economy, simplification of environmental legislation, and the prevention and management of wildfires ahead of the Informal Council of EU Ministers of the Environment, scheduled to take place in Nicosia on Friday.
Cyprus measures and EU targets
At a press conference, Panayiotou said Cyprus uses the European Commission’s technical support on water resilience. Asked about measures addressing limited water resources, she said the EU target to reduce water consumption by 10 per cent by 2030 also applies to Cyprus, alongside the use of desalination technologies and efforts to monitor losses in the water supply network.
Technical support and funding
Panayiotou said the European Commission is aware of Cyprus’ situation and described technical support as important, along with targeted funding for vulnerable areas.
Roswall on broader challenges
Roswall said Cyprus is holding the presidency of the EU Council at a challenging time for Europe due to uncertainty linked to the war, trade wars, and climate change. She said Europe is strengthening competitiveness, resilience, and preparedness.
What measures do you think should be prioritised to help reduce water consumption in your area?
