Troodos, Cyprus. Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou warned on Sunday that greenhouse gas concentrations in Cyprus have reached historic highs, despite recent progress in emissions reduction. She said the trend carries grave environmental consequences.
Record concentrations and main emitting sectors
Speaking at the “Earth Hour 2026” event in Troodos, Theodosiou said greenhouse gas concentrations have reached historically high levels, with electricity generation and transport identified as the main emission sectors.
Research findings and structural challenges
Citing findings from the Cyprus Institute’s atmospheric research centre published last January, she pointed to structural challenges in Cyprus’s energy and transport systems.
Recent emissions reduction and call for continued action
Theodosiou said it was positive that signs of progress are being recorded, referencing a 5.2% reduction in emissions reported by Eurostat in February 2026. She cautioned, however, that the progress should not lead to complacency and said efforts must be continued and strengthened to support a transition to a sustainable energy and development model.
Water scarcity and resource management
Beyond emissions, she said environmental strain is increasingly visible in water scarcity, describing it as a reality already affecting daily life, agriculture and advancing desertification. She called for a coherent and integrated approach linking public policy with individual responsibility in managing natural resources, including energy, water and land.
Troodos geopark and international recognition
Referring to the Troodos geopark, Theodosiou described it as a valuable natural and geological treasure for Cyprus. She cited its international recognition after joining the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network in 2015 and said it is significant as a site shaped by the geological processes that formed the island.
Climate neutrality and renewable energy
Theodosiou said the transition to climate neutrality remains a central European and international objective, describing it as a necessary transition linked to addressing the climate crisis and safeguarding ecosystems. She identified renewable energy, particularly photovoltaic systems, as a key tool in reducing emissions and highlighted energy communities as a modern and participatory model enabling the public to take an active role in energy production and management.
What steps are you taking to reduce your energy use and support sustainable resource management in Cyprus?
