Paphos, Cyprus. A Chloraka cultural and environmental group has criticised extensive herbicide spraying to clear vegetation from sidewalks and roads in the Paphos district, while the municipality said the practice is limited to high-risk locations for worker safety.
Group raises environmental concerns
In a Friday statement, the group described chemical vegetation control as an “unnatural practice” that pollutes soil and groundwater rather than protecting public health and biodiversity.
It said chemical spraying destroys greenery that could be maintained with alternatives such as lawn mowers and warned that insects, small animals and vital soil organisms are lost, describing them as an “invisible” but essential part of local ecosystems.
The group’s chairman, Andreas Kyriakou, questioned who approves the herbicides, who monitors their application, and asked, “why do we choose pollution over protection ?”
Municipality says use is limited and regulated
Responding to the concerns, Dr Christos Christou, head of the public health and environment department at Paphos municipality, said herbicides are used only in specific cases and strictly according to regulations.
He said the department’s greenery service clears open spaces to reduce fire risks and prevent tall weeds from sheltering rodents.
Christou said mechanical methods are preferred, but herbicides are used only where worker safety is at risk, such as on steep terrain or in locations where machinery cannot be operated.
He added that spraying is avoided near running water to prevent contamination of aquatic ecosystems and said staff follow label instructions on safe dosages and protective measures, aiming to protect public health and the environment.
What measures would you like local authorities to prioritise when managing roadside and sidewalk vegetation?
