The Paralimni-Deryneia Municipality has joined forces with the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative (CSTI) to promote sustainable practices in the tourism sector.
According to an announcement released this week, this partnership aims to “enhance environmental awareness, protect natural resources, and boost sustainable development in the region”.
“The collaboration forms part of efforts to strengthen sustainability within the tourism industry, focusing on protecting the natural environment and fostering environmental awareness,” the municipality added in its announcement.
As part of this initiative, the municipality has signed up for the ‘Keep Our Sand and Sea Plastic Free’ project.
The project, the announcement continued, will involve actions to reduce the use of single-use plastics in the area.
“Efforts will focus on limiting single-use plastics in municipal buildings, raising public awareness, and promoting sustainable practices in the local tourism sector,” the statement said.
A key goal of the project is to drastically cut single-use plastics on beaches and reduce plastic pollution in the Mediterranean.
“Plastic pollution poses a major environmental challenge, jeopardising the future of our tourism product,” the municipality explained.
Paralimni-Deryneia mayor Giorgos Nicolettos highlighted the significance of this collaboration.
“Our partnership with the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative is an important opportunity to adopt sustainable practices that will benefit not only our local community but also the natural environment, which is crucial for tourism and our quality of life,” he said.
“By participating in the ‘Keep Our Sand and Sea Plastic Free’ project, we are taking another step in this direction,” he added.
Meanwhile, CSTI president Philippos Drousiotis also emphasised the importance of sustainability in tourism.
“Tourism and sustainability are inextricably linked,” Drousiotis said.
Moreover, he expressed satisfaction with the strengthened partnership, noting that it promotes environmentally respectful practices, supports local communities, and enhances the area’s appeal as a sustainable tourism destination.
“The support we receive from local authorities is critical for integrating sustainability into the local community,” he stated.
Finally, the announcement mentioned that this collaboration will include educational programmes, public events, and initiatives aimed at positioning the area as a model sustainable tourism destination.
