Cyprus warns of severe water shortages due to climate change

Cyprus is sounding the alarm about the growing threat of water shortages in the Mediterranean region due to climate change. At a major meeting on Tuesday, Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou stressed that the country is a prime example of how serious the problem has become.

Speaking at the MED9 Ministerial meeting, Panayiotou explained that rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are leading to more frequent droughts and unpredictable rainfall. This means there's less water to go around, especially as the demand for water continues to grow.

"Water shortages are becoming a huge problem, with serious impacts on farming, people's well-being, and the economy," Panayiotou said. She pointed out that Europe recently faced its worst drought in 500 years, which has dried up soils and hurt crops across the continent.

Cyprus is particularly vulnerable, Panayiotou added. The island has limited natural water sources and a semi-arid climate, making it especially prone to drought. Over the past few decades, rainfall has decreased significantly, leading to overuse of groundwater and increasing salinity in coastal areas. Rapid urban development and a booming tourism industry are further straining the country's water resources.

To cope with these challenges, Panayiotou called for innovative solutions like advanced water treatment and seawater desalination to help balance the country’s water needs.

European Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski, who also spoke at the meeting, echoed these concerns. He warned that droughts are becoming more common across Europe and stressed the need for better water management to protect farmers and ensure food security.

"The threat of drought is growing, but so is our ability to fight it," Wojciechowski said. "We need to keep working together to make sure we can keep feeding people and protect the environment."

The MED9 summit in Ayia Napa brought together leaders from Mediterranean countries to discuss how to tackle environmental challenges like water scarcity. The goal is to find sustainable solutions that will help ensure the future of farming and protect the environment for generations to come.

[With information from CNA]