wildfire recovery — TechIsland is making significant strides in its wildfire recovery work in Souni, having recently completed another phase of its dedicated programme. This initiative, launched after the devastating wildfires that swept across Cyprus in the summer of 2025, is aimed at restoring the affected areas and preventing future disasters.
The non-profit association has garnered support from over 60 technology companies and individuals, pooling resources to tackle the urgent issues of fire prevention, ecological recovery, and community support. With approximately 1,000,000 square metres of forest decimated by last summer’s fires, the task at hand is monumental.
In Souni, after the initial removal of burned trees by private contractors, a considerable amount of branches and debris remained strewn across the landscape. Over 22 working days, TechIsland spearheaded the collection and processing of this biomass, employing a woodchipping machine to convert the remnants into mulch.
This mulch is now being put to good use on-site, enhancing soil moisture retention, minimising erosion, and aiding the broader ecological recovery of the forest. The focus has been placed on areas closest to residential zones, where the risk of fire was heightened due to uncleared biomass combined with dry grass.
“Following last summer’s devastating wildfires in Cyprus, TechIsland launched a collective recovery programme, backed by contributions from 60+ tech companies and individuals, focused on fire prevention, ecological recovery, and community support,” the organisation stated.
TechIsland expressed gratitude to the local community and their leaders for their collaboration in these efforts, as well as to all donors involved in the TechIsland Wildfire Initiative. Their cooperation has been vital in carrying out the work effectively.
The latest developments mark an important milestone in TechIsland’s ongoing commitment to recovery, following the initiative’s launch in July 2025. At that time, the organisation began an internal fundraising campaign aimed at providing immediate relief and facilitating long-term recovery measures for the affected communities.
Ugne Buraciene, Group CEO of payabl. and a board member of TechIsland, highlighted the emotional toll of the wildfires, stating, “Cyprus is more than just where our headquarters are, it’s home. The devastation caused by the wildfires is heartbreaking, and we feel a deep responsibility to support our community in this time of need.”
