Opok calls for stricter action to protect Limassol bay from pollution

Limassol, Cyprus. The Federation of Environmental Organisations of Cyprus (Opok) on Monday called for stricter measures to protect Limassol bay, urging an immediate, coordinated and scientifically documented response to marine pollution.

The organisation called for the full activation of the Pollution Response Supervision and Coordination Group (PESA), established by a Council of Ministers decision in February 2025.

Monitoring and response measures

Opok appealed to the House environment committee to introduce systematic controls, early pollution detection measures and effective implementation of the Barcelona Convention protocol to protect the bay.

It called for a specific staffing and operational schedule, a clear distribution of responsibilities and a common response protocol. Under the proposed framework, each complaint would be followed by an immediate on-site inspection, sampling, pollution limitation measures, public information and an investigation of potential responsibilities.

Coastal zone management

The federation also called for implementation of the seventh protocol of the Barcelona Convention on integrated coastal zone management, describing it as crucial for the integrated and ecosystem-based management of the coastal zone.

It said this should include incorporating the convention’s provisions into spatial planning, licensing, monitoring and the protection of the coastal and marine environment.

Recent pollution incidents

The call follows several pollution incidents recorded in the Limassol sea in recent weeks, including sewage flowing into the sea in Moni from the local sewage treatment plant.

Other reports involved unpleasant smells and waste along the city’s coastline, as well as a white substance in the sea at Armonia beach in Ayios Tychonas. Residents reported finding sanitary pads, nappies and other items in the water.

Government response

At a recent meeting with stakeholders in Limassol, Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanoli said Cyprus’ waters were clean but acknowledged that there was room for improvement.

She said marine pollution incidents had been recorded and addressed this year, while further measures had been agreed to strengthen monitoring and enable authorities to respond more quickly.