Former Greens leader and former Environment Commissioner Charalambos Theopemptou argued that destructive wildfires cannot be attributed solely to climate change, but are also linked to the gradual abandonment of the countryside.
Speaking on Politis Radio 107.6 and 97.6 during the programme Morning Briefing, Theopemptou said the decline of farming and livestock activities has led to the accumulation of large amounts of combustible material, significantly increasing the risk of fires spreading.
He noted that in the past, land cultivation, grazing and the constant management of rural areas acted as natural fire-prevention measures.
Grazing and agriculture can act as fire barriers
As an example, Theopemptou referred to practices used abroad, including in California, where local authorities make use of organised grazing to create natural firebreaks.
He added that vineyards and other cultivated areas can serve as natural barriers against the spread of fire, unlike extensive pine monocultures, which he described as highly flammable.
Communities need better preparation
Theopemptou argued that Cyprus continues to lag behind in the area of prevention and stressed the need for better preparation in communities located near forested areas.
According to him, local communities should have:
- Evacuation plans.
- Information material for residents.
- Records of vulnerable groups.
- Regular emergency preparedness exercises.
Such measures would ensure that residents know how to respond in the event of a wildfire.
Delays in early warning systems
Referring to emergency warning systems, Theopemptou said Cyprus was slow to introduce modern technologies for informing the public, despite a legal obligation to do so for years.
He noted that in many countries alerts are sent directly to citizens' mobile phones, providing information about risks and protective measures.
Housing near forests increases risk
The former MP also argued that unregulated development near forest areas increases danger levels.
He pointed out that other countries impose strict requirements designed to protect homes from wildfire threats, including the creation of safety zones around properties and the use of appropriate vegetation.
Reviving the countryside
Theopemptou also advocated stronger support for rural communities through incentives for young families to settle there, better infrastructure and improved access to healthcare, education and high-speed internet.
He argued that revitalising rural areas would help prevent wildfires while also addressing other challenges, including housing pressures and the decline of agricultural production.
Criticism of development policies
Finally, Theopemptou criticised development policies that, in his view, focus on large-scale projects rather than strengthening production and the rural economy.
He referenced the European Union's Farm to Fork Strategy, arguing that Cyprus should provide greater support to producers, encourage the direct sale of local products to consumers and strengthen domestic food production.
