Plastic, talks end without agreement on curbing production
Negotiations for a global treaty to address plastic pollution concluded without agreement on sustainable plastic production limits.
Negotiations for a global treaty to address plastic pollution concluded without agreement on sustainable plastic production limits.
Countries are considering launching a series of smaller meetings before reaching an agreement on the first plastics treaty in December.
The Audit Office has requested a revised site allocation study for proposed marine farm facilities in the Moni-Vassiliko area due to the area’s significance for the Mediterranean monk seal. Plans to develop aquaculture facilities in the environmentally sensitive area are facing scrutiny, with a project tender issued for €34 million. The Audit Office recommends updating the National Action Plan for Monk Seal Conservation and ensuring public access to relevant assessments. Delays in project implementation could risk losing funding. The Audit Office criticizes the lack of detail in alternative locations considered in a previous study and recommends a revised study to address the gap. The Department of Environment’s pre-screening report for the Environmental Impact Assessment is criticized for not adequately considering the importance of the area for the Mediterranean monk seal. The proposed project aims to serve seven of the nine existing marine aquaculture farms in Cyprus, providing necessary support infrastructure.
Fact: Eliza Stasopoulou, a senior officer at the Cyprus Stock Exchange, emphasized the importance of companies implementing corporate governance and social responsibility policies to enhance performance, improve services, and foster transparency and rational management.
Virginijus Sinkevičius, the European Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans, and Fisheries, emphasizes the importance of addressing climate change and environmental protection. Cyprus, due to its geographical position, is expected to be significantly impacted by climate change, especially in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and fisheries. Sinkevičius highlights the need for all Member States, including Cyprus, to implement climate targets to mitigate these effects. Additionally, he stresses the importance of implementing provisions for Natura2000 areas to ensure ecosystems can withstand increasing pressures, warning that Cyprus may end up in the European Court over Natura2000 issues if necessary actions are not taken.
Fines have been imposed on 16 shipowners over the last 10 years for pollution caused by oil, illegal discharge of sewage, and illegal cleaning of vessels without obtaining approval from the Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA).
Fact: The Limassol Carnival in Cyprus generated 5 tons and 160 kg of waste that was collected and sent to waste treatment facilities by volunteers from the “City Friends Club.”