The Cyprus Animal Party has issued a warning about the country’s forest management practices, accusing the Department of Forests of excessive logging that could threaten biodiversity.
The party expressed particular concern about the logging of phenotypically superior trees, warning that this practice could lead to long-term degradation of forest quality and negative impacts on the island’s flora and fauna.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the party highlighted the dual threat faced by Cyprus forests from frequent fires that destroy thousands of hectares annually and what it describes as unsustainable logging practices for Christmas trees and timber production.
The party has proposed an “Adopt Your Christmas Tree” programme, suggesting that the Forestry Department should offer domesticated pine trees in 10-litre pots as an alternative to cutting trees.
While supporting tree planting initiatives, the party called for better protection of barren areas through systematic reforestation with quality saplings planted at regular intervals.
The Animal Party has called on the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment to examine the issue and implement decisions aimed at improving forest management practices.
The statement also emphasised the devastating impact of forest fires on local wildlife and vegetation, noting that thousands of hectares of land are burned annually, resulting in significant losses to both flora and fauna.
