Microplastic pollution in Paphos has reached alarming levels, prompting calls for immediate action from local environmental experts. Xenia Loizides, president of the AKTI study and research centre, highlighted the pressing need for targeted measures to tackle this issue along the Paphos coast, where high concentrations of microplastics have been recorded for several years.
- By taking decisive action, it is possible to mitigate the effects of microplastic pollution on Paphos's coastal ecosystems and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.
Long-Standing Issue
Loizides addressed the ongoing problem in a statement issued on Tuesday, stating that the presence of microplastics in Paphos is neither new nor unexpected. The data backing her claims has been collected through a well-established monitoring programme conducted by AKTI since 2022.
According to the organisation, systematic measurements of microplastics are conducted four times a year across ten beaches in Cyprus. Alarmingly, some beaches in Paphos have recorded concentrations of up to 4,000 microplastics per square metre, raising serious concerns about the health of marine ecosystems.
Scientific Findings and Public Awareness
Loizides noted that the findings have already been presented at various scientific conferences, emphasising that the scale of the problem has been documented through extensive research rather than recent observations alone. She expressed surprise at the heightened public discussion surrounding microplastic pollution, attributing this shift in awareness to recent strong wave activity across the Levant.
This wave activity may have led to an increased deposition of plastic particles along the coast, making the issue more visible to the public during the summer months, despite the elevated concentrations typically being observed in winter.
Sources of Microplastic Pollution
Addressing the sources of this pollution, Loizides pointed out that significant quantities of microplastics reach Cyprus through the marine environment, particularly from illegal coastal dumping sites and river outflows in neighbouring Middle Eastern states. However, she also stressed the importance of local authorities taking responsibility for domestic sources of pollution.
Loizides called for a comprehensive approach that includes inspections of stormwater drainage systems that discharge into the sea, stricter controls on excursion vessels, improved recycling options for discarded fishing gear, and more effective management of agricultural plastics. These measures are vital for reducing the influx of microplastics into the marine environment.
Concerns Over Coastal Infrastructure Projects
In addition to addressing pollution sources, Loizides raised concerns regarding coastal infrastructure projects. She urged authorities to halt the construction of new hard coastal defences, specifically referencing the chain of breakwaters along Paphos and Yeroskipou. Such interventions can significantly alter natural coastal processes, potentially contributing to the accumulation of microplastics on beaches.
“The solutions are known and scientifically documented,” she stated, emphasising the need for authorities to transition from merely identifying the problem to implementing practical measures aimed at reducing plastic pollution and protecting coastal ecosystems.
The Role of AKTI and Future Steps
AKTI, a Cyprus-based environmental organisation, specialises in coastal management, marine conservation, and sustainable development research. The organisation’s ongoing efforts aim to raise awareness and provide solutions to combat microplastic pollution in Paphos and beyond.
Moving forward, it is crucial for both local and regional authorities to collaborate with environmental organisations like AKTI to develop and execute effective strategies. This includes enhancing public education on the impacts of plastic pollution and fostering community involvement in conservation efforts.
By taking decisive action, it is possible to mitigate the effects of microplastic pollution on Paphos’s coastal ecosystems and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.
