The need to protect our planet is urgent

AKEL on International Earth Day 2024

22 April 2024, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

On the occasion of International Earth Day, a strong message must be sent for the protection of our planet.

As a result of the climate crisis, 2023 was the warmest year ever recorded, with droughts, storms, fires and floods devastating countries and communities.

Especially in our region, in the Eastern Mediterranean, which will be most affected by the climate crisis, we also have to deal with the continuation and expansion of the ongoing war by Israel in our neighbouring Palestine with all its numerous consequences. The environmental impacts resulting from armed conflict can be multi-faceted, severe, long-lasting and mostly irreversible.

While we are in the midst of the UN Decade for Ecosystem Restoration, aiming at halting their degradation and immediate restoration, our country is accused of numerous violations of the European acquis concerning their protection.

The government of Nicos Christodoulides, continuing the policies of the previous government with its neoliberal and anti-environmental policies, is widening the impact of the economic crisis, further degrading the quality of life of all Cypriots.

To achieve a fair balance between the economic, social and environmental needs of current and future generations, it is imperative that actions are taken today.

We need a scheme, planning and determination.

For AKEL, action to promote a just transition is imperative to achieve social justice, dignified work and the eradication of poverty and to address the environmental and climate crisis.