The Christodoulides administration has prioritised addressing climate change with targeted actions, a commitment echoed by Cyprus’ tourism industry, Deputy Minister Costas Koumis said on Thursday.
Koumis’ comments were delivered during a speech at a conference titled ‘Tourism in the Era of Climate Change: Challenges and Innovations‘, held under the auspices of President Nikos Christodoulides.
The Christodoulides administration has prioritised addressing climate change with targeted actions, a commitment echoed by Cyprus’ tourism industry, Deputy Minister Costas Koumis said on Thursday.
Koumis’ comments were delivered during a speech at a conference titled ‘Tourism in the Era of Climate Change: Challenges and Innovations‘, held under the auspices of President Nikos Christodoulides.
In his remarks at the event, co-organised by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, the Office of the Environment and Animal Welfare Commissioner, and the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Association, Koumis emphasised the importance of a balanced approach to tourism growth.“The growth trajectory of tourism must continue with respect for the environment, recognising our responsibility to preserve our natural wealth for future generations,” he said.
Koumis highlighted the critical need for adopting sustainable practices and integrating circular economy principles.
These steps, he said, are “key to minimising climate change impacts while ensuring a thriving tourism sector that does not compromise ecosystems”.
He also said that the “government is committed to mitigating the consequences of climate crises through actions aligned with European and international guidelines“.
He mentioned that the national strategy and action plan for climate change adaptation, coordinated by the Agriculture Ministry, serves as a roadmap for achieving climate-related goals.
The strategy outlines priorities across various developmental and economic activities, aiming to benefit both the Cypriot economy and society.
Koumis stressed that the cost of transitioning to green practices must not hinder the transformation of tourism business models.
“New technologies and digitisation provide solutions where the initial investment can be offset in the medium term, leading to a significant reduction in energy and water consumption as well as waste management,” he said.
The Cabinet, he continued, has approved a national circular economy action plan.
The plan focuses on “cultivating circular practices among citizens and businesses, providing incentives for investment, and boosting resource efficiency”.
“With the adoption of best practices, the circular economy can rejuvenate the tourism sector, promoting sustainability and the conservation of natural resources while creating opportunities for innovation and growth,” Koumis stated.
Koumis also highlighted a shift in visitor behaviour, with increasing demand for destinations and products aligned with environmental protection.
“Destinations and businesses that have incorporated sustainability principles into their offerings undoubtedly gain a competitive advantage,” he said.
The deputy minister also pointed out that local authorities play a crucial role in addressing climate change.
This happens through waste management infrastructure, renewable energy use, and water conservation initiatives.
“Encouragingly”, he said, “many municipalities are actively participating in European programmes focused on the circular economy, with tangible outcomes”.
