Paphos: Cyprus' bid to join the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves has entered a substantial implementation phase, with the proposed area covering the communities in the valleys of the Xeros and Diarizos rivers in Paphos District, comprising a total of 32 villages, Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare, Antonia Theodosiou says according to a statement issued on Sunday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Theodosiou addressed an official ceremony marking the inclusion of the Mount Parnon - Cape Maleas region in UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, held on Saturday in Greece. She congratulated everyone who had worked 'with perseverance, scientific rigour, cooperation and vision' to secure the region's inscription on the Network.
Theodosiou noted her visit to the area around 10 years ago as Director of the Akamas Project Management Plan, in cooperation with the then Management Agency for Mount Parnon and the Moustos Wetland. She expressed her appreciation for the region's human, cultural, and natural heritage, and her delight at its recognition and inclusion in UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Further, she revealed that Cyprus embarked on a similar 'demanding and lengthy journey' about a year and a half ago, leveraging the experience of Greece's Biosphere Reserves, particularly Mount Parnon-Cape Maleas and the Asterousia Mountains in Crete.
As the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare, her Office took the initiative to coordinate the preparation of the Republic of Cyprus' first nomination for inclusion in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The proposed site covers the communities in the valleys of the Xeros and Diarizos rivers in Paphos District, spanning 32 villages.
Theodosiou emphasized the importance of the region's centuries-long human presence, which has shaped a unique mosaic of landscapes, culture, archaeological wealth, traditions, and productive activities, while preserving rich biodiversity. These elements align with the philosophy of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme.
The Cypriot nomination 'has now entered a substantive phase of implementation'. Preparation of the nomination dossier began in January 2026, with an ongoing comprehensive consultation and participation process in close collaboration with local authorities, government departments, producers, academic institutions, non-governmental organisations, local residents, and other stakeholders across the region, she added.