Nicosia: Nature is not an optional luxury but the foundation for human health, security, and prosperity, Leena Yl¤-Mononen, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency (EEA), emphasized on Thursday in Nicosia. Speaking during the presentation of the “Europe’s Environment 2025” report, she warned that Europe is failing to meet critical environmental targets and that urgent action is more imperative than ever.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Yl¤-Mononen highlighted that climate stability and environmental functionality are essential for achieving societal goals. During her official visit to Cyprus, she stressed the urgency of the situation while addressing the event, which holds particular importance as Cyprus prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency. Cyprus’s Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, emphasized the need for close cooperation with the EEA to advance Cypriot priorities.
The “Europe’s Environment 2025” report, described by Yl¤-Mononen as “the most comprehensive scientific analysis” of Europe’s environmental status, reveals a troubling picture despite some progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution-related deaths. Biodiversity is deteriorating, with over 60% of species and 80% of habitats in poor condition. Water scarcity affects one-third of Europeans, and Europe is warming faster than any other continent. The transition to a circular economy remains slow, with a stagnant circularity rate of just 11.8%.
Yl¤-Mononen underscored the importance of policy tools, economic investments, and technological solutions, stating, “Nature is not a luxury. It is essential for Europe.” She highlighted Cyprus as both a cautionary tale and an example of best practices, referencing last summer’s devastating wildfires as a reminder of the consequences Europe faces if it fails to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Yl¤-Mononen praised Cyprus for its water management practices, suggesting that its experience could guide other European regions facing similar challenges. Minister Maria Panayiotou outlined Cyprus’s upcoming EU Council Presidency priorities, focusing on circular economy initiatives and water resilience, describing the Presidency as “a defining moment of opportunity and responsibility.”
While acknowledging progress in expanding the Natura 2000 network and increasing renewable energy, Panayiotou recognized ongoing challenges such as fossil fuel dependency, waste management, and desertification. She emphasized the need for continuous investment in green energy, circular economy practices, and sustainable land and water management.