Paphos, Cyprus. The forestry department on Monday urged the public to camp only in designated and organised campsites, warning that unauthorised camping in nature threatens sensitive ecosystems and increases the risk of wildfires.
Environmental impact
In a statement, the department said illegal camping in areas of particular ecological importance, including the Akamas national forest park, combined with uncontrolled human activity, littering and other interventions, places pressure on fragile habitats, disrupts wildlife and degrades the natural environment.
Fire danger and legal consequences
The department said the fire risk was particularly serious and stressed that lighting fires is strictly prohibited outside specially designated areas within organised picnic and camping sites.
It also reminded the public that illegal camping and the lighting of fires in breach of the law are offences that carry severe penalties under the forests law.
Inspections and enforcement
The department said inspections would continue in cooperation with the police, the Paphos district administration, the Akamas municipality and the game and fauna service, and that the law would be enforced wherever violations are identified.