Nicosia: The TWIN2EXPAND project highlighted pressing issues in urban data governance and the European Green Deal during Cyprus Forum 2025, with panel discussions held in collaboration with Oxygen for Democracy at the historic Cornaro Room of the Nicosia Old Town Hall.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the first panel concentrated on urban data governance in Cyprus, focusing on the transition from fragmented datasets to integrated systems that support climate resilience, accessibility planning, energy efficiency, and sustainability. The panel discussed the challenges posed by EU directives on open data, which often clash with local operational capacities. Governance models that could bridge this gap were debated, with insights drawn from international practices in data governance.
The value of open urban data beyond regulatory compliance was another focal point. Panellists emphasized how accessible spatial and environmental datasets can enhance decision-making by enabling evidence-based planning and real-time monitoring, aiding communities in understanding service inequalities, and providing researchers and innovators with new analytical tools. They also discussed Cyprus’s potential as a living laboratory for data-driven urban governance, given its institutional landscape and research ecosystem.
The first session concluded with calls for long-term coordination between the government, local authorities, academia, and the private sector. Moderated by Nadia Charalambous and Ilaria Geddes from the SURF Lab at the University of Cyprus, the panel featured speakers from various research and innovation institutions.
The second panel focused on the practical implementation of the European Green Deal in Cyprus, addressing climate neutrality, biodiversity restoration, energy transition, and the circular economy. The panel examined Cyprus’s current standing relative to European targets and explored how to translate Green Deal objectives into national strategies. Structural and regulatory challenges were discussed, highlighting the need for clearer implementation pathways and integrated monitoring systems.
Collaboration emerged as a key theme for effective Green Deal implementation, emphasizing the necessity of coordination across governmental departments and cooperation with academia, civil society, and the private sector. The panel stressed the importance of strengthening environmental governance and improving data sharing to ensure tangible benefits for communities.
The session concluded with speakers outlining priority actions for the coming years, such as enhancing environmental monitoring systems and investing in renewable energy. Moderated by Andreas Papallas from the SURF Lab, the panel included representatives from the Cyprus Energy Agency, Environment Committee, and other key organizations.