Cyprus faces legal action over inadequate wastewater treatment

Cyprus is currently facing legal action by the European Commission for failing to ensure that its wastewater treatment plants comply with EU legislation. The Commission has stated that Cyprus has not taken the necessary measures to ensure that all urban wastewater is collected and treated in a way that protects human health and the environment.

According to the Commission, around 45% of urban wastewater in Cyprus is not properly collected or treated, which means that untreated or inadequately treated wastewater is being discharged into the environment. This can lead to a range of environmental and health problems, including pollution of rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, as well as the risk of waterborne diseases.

The Commission has also highlighted that Cyprus has failed to carry out proper monitoring of its wastewater treatment plants, which means that it cannot accurately assess the environmental impact of their discharge. In addition, the Commission has found that Cyprus has not ensured that the necessary permits are in place for all wastewater treatment plants, which is a requirement under EU law.

Overall, the European Commission is concerned that Cyprus is not doing enough to protect its citizens and the environment from the harmful effects of untreated wastewater. The legal action being taken by the Commission is aimed at ensuring that Cyprus takes the necessary measures to comply with EU legislation and improve its wastewater treatment infrastructure.

[With information from CNA]