Nature is not an optional luxury but the foundation for human health, security, and prosperity, Leena Ylä-Mononen, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency (EEA) said on Thursday in Nicosia. Speaking during the presentation of the “Europe’s Environment 2025” report, she warned that Europe is failing to meet critical environmental targets and that urgent action is more imperative than ever.

“If there is one key headline from our report, it is this: Nature is the foundation for ensuring human health, safety, and prosperity. Nature is not a luxury. Nature is non-negotiable,” Ylä-Mononen noted, emphasizing that climate stability and environmental functionality underpin everything society aims to achieve.

The event, organized during her official visit to Cyprus, carries particular significance as the island nation prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency. Cyprus’s Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, stressed the importance of close cooperation with the Agency to advance Cypriot priorities.

The “Europe’s Environment 2025” report was described by Ylä-Mononen as “the most comprehensive scientific analysis” of Europe’s environmental status and prospects. While acknowledging some progress—particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution-related deaths—the overall picture remains troubling.

Biodiversity continues to deteriorate, with over 60% of species and 80% of habitats in poor condition. Water resources face severe pressure, with water scarcity already affecting one-third of Europeans. Climate change is accelerating at an alarming rate, with Europe warming faster than any other continent. The transition to a circular economy remains frustratingly slow, with Europe’s circularity rate stagnant at just 11.8%.

“We are still very linear and very wasteful, using resources far more than many other regions of the world,” Ylä-Mononen said. At the same time she noted the availability of policy tools, economic investments, and technological solutions. “Let me be blunt. Nature is not a luxury. It is essential for Europe. In these uncertain times, Europe cannot afford to lower its ambitions for climate, environment, and sustainability,” she stressed.

The EEA chief specifically highlighted Cyprus as both a cautionary tale and an example of best practices. Referring to last summer’s devastating wildfires, she noted that they serve as a painful reminder of the destruction, loss of life, and economic consequences Europe faces if it fails to limit warming to 1.5 degree Celsius.

However, Ylä-Mononen praised Cyprus noting that “you have already learned to use and reuse water, and your example will be very important for other regions now beginning to face this scarcity,” suggesting that Cyprus’s experience could guide other European areas confronting similar challenges.

On her behalf Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Maria Panayiotou, outlined Cyprus’s upcoming EU Council Presidency priorities, focusing on circular economy initiatives and water resilience. She described the Presidency as “a defining moment of opportunity and responsibility,” describing Cyprus’s approach as one of “ambition but also realism.”

While acknowledging progress in expanding the Natura 2000 network and increasing renewable energy, Panayiotou recognized ongoing challenges including fossil fuel dependency, waste management, and desertification. “Addressing these issues requires continuous investment in green energy, circular economy practices, and sustainable land and water management,” she stated.

Source: Parikiaki.com