Nicosia: Cyprus is committed to achieving the goals of green growth and reducing emissions, through the adoption of innovative agricultural practices and strengthening the circular economy, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou said Thursday. She also noted that protection of the environment, climate action, and the rational management of natural resources are key pillars for the government.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Minister delivered a speech at an event titled “Greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture and the role of the circular economy in tackling climate change,” held at the Presidential Palace. Prizes were presented to students who competed in a competition in environmental studies. Panayiotou emphasized the goal of reducing the carbon footprint of agriculture while ensuring the economic viability of rural areas and maintaining the productivity of natural resources.
She referred to policies such as the one for the primary sector approved in October by
the Cabinet, noting that such strategies aim to increase the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP, with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Panayiotou also highlighted that through the Common Agricultural Policy (2023-2027), ambitious targets were set for climate action, with at least 40% of CAP resources available for actions related to environmental protection, resource preservation, and the improvement of production practices by Cypriot farmers and breeders.
The Minister discussed additional measures aimed at increasing the subsidy rate for environmental investments to 80%, incentivizing farmers to adopt practices that reduce emissions and carbon footprints while promoting sustainable development in agriculture. She also noted that the Presidential Palace serves as a model of “Zero Waste to Landfill,” managing over 95% of its waste to avoid landfills.
Panayiotou mentioned the event co-organized by the Agricultural Research Institute and the Open University, emphasizing the critical role r
esearch and academic institutions play in developing new technologies and practices that contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.