Forests and climate

The government of Cyprus decided to adopt a new forestry policy. "The new vision for the forests of Cyprus is the preservation, protection, expansion, improvement and sustainable management of forest resources and green areas in general, using modern methods and practices,” said government spokesman Stefanos Stefanou. "Taking into account the multiple functions of forest ecosystems, the needs and expectations of society and international trends, forests and greenery must be maintained in the best possible condition to ensure balanced maximum economic, environmental and social benefits for present and future policies,” he added. The new policy has set out 13 main objectives including the conservation of forests and woodlands, the protection of forests, the improvement and expansion of forests and green areas and the protection of biodiversity, the landscape and cultural heritage. It will also aim to strengthen the protective role of forests and their role in addressing desertification.