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Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou participated with other experts and representatives of institutions and organisations in a panel discussion at the Thematic Workshop "Energy, Green Growth and Environment", in the framework of a day organised by the Foundation for Research and Innovation (R&I) entitled "Innovation, Cooperation, Development". During the discussion, knowledge, views and expertise in the fields of energy, green growth and environment were exchanged, as well as ideas for strengthening and further exploiting the potential of the Cypriot ecosystem.
During the discussion, the Commissioner mentioned that the European Green Deal sets a common European goal for the EU to be the first climate neutral continent by 2050, explaining that this practically means that Member States should accelerate their efforts to transform their economies into climate-friendly economies. To achieve this, the Commissioner said that "a rapid increase in the contribution of renewable energy sources (RES) in production and use, in buildings, transport and industry is needed. To meet the challenges of the climate crisis, particularly in the energy sector (production, distribution and consumption), Cyprus should consider and invest in practices that come from the field of research and innovation. Environmental policies are already in place. What is needed is their effective implementation and enforcement and this can be achieved by strengthening the legal framework, monitoring systems and cooperation between all relevant institutions and organisations."
Referring to the need for an energy transition to renewable energy, she said that this requires the immediate creation of an energy ecosystem in which institutions, organised groups and individuals can participate in order to reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels. At the same time, he added, the interconnection of research centres with businesses, industry, academia and public bodies should be promoted, as well as the promotion and support of energy communities.
She added that innovative solutions should also be found for energy storage from renewable energy production and to establish partnerships with other countries for energy security and stability purposes.
In her intervention, Ms Theodosiou also referred to the use of solar and wind energy: "Solar photovoltaic and wind systems are particularly effective for electricity generation, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, innovative technologies for targeted dispersed generation, distribution and storage are needed, as well as a spatial strategy to avoid altering the natural and man-made traditional landscape and affecting biodiversity. She added that the use of biomass, combined with waste management, green hydrogen and pumped storage, can also diversify the energy mix.
Referring to the issue of natural gas, Ms Theodosiou said that "although it should not be our first priority, it can be used as a transitional fuel. But it needs to be given its identity and through innovative ideas to offset its carbon footprint."
Referring to her responsibilities, the Environment Commissioner said that particular emphasis would be placed on "carbon absorption and storage in relation to models to be developed through land use, with the aim of increasing forest cover, enhancing biodiversity and avoiding further land sealing." The priorities of the Environment Commissioner's Office include the protection of natural wetlands, the adoption and implementation of measures to promote sustainable land use practices, which the Commissioner described as "essential for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity and the unique ecosystems of our country."
Finally, the Environment Commissioner said that the Republic of Cyprus has a statutory obligation to use the revenues from the auctioning of pollutant trading rights and that the use of the resources from these rights should be considered. In conclusion, she stressed that the above amounts should be returned to society through actions and support mechanisms for the environment, and of course in the field of research for the development of innovative technologies and practices.
(ASP)
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