Cyprus: Cyprus will prepare an application to include two of its river valleys to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
According to Cyprus News Agency, press release issued on Thursday by the Environmental Commissioner's Office, an agreement was recently signed for the preparation of a dossier to submit a candidacy to include the Xeros and Diarizos river valleys to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
The area to be included covers approximately 510 square kilometers and includes 32 communities. Cooperation with state agencies, private entities, scientific organizations, and local communities will be intensified once the project begins, with the aim of formulating a candidacy dossier that will reflect not only the biological and ecological value of the area, but also its human character, history, and prospects, the press release noted.
"The preparation of the candidacy constitutes an essential step, based on the collective responsibility of the State and local communities to protect and enhance nature, as a key pillar of resilience. The successful conclusion of this effort can be a reference point for the future and for other areas of Cyprus," it said.