Report highlights shocking lack of urban green spaces

THE RATIO of green space available per resident is at its lowest in the capital, according to the Greens, while all Cypriot cities register way below the international standards set for quantity of green spaces in an urban environment.

The Green Party released statistics yesterday (30th Nov.)revealing a shocking ratio of green spaces available per resident in Cyprus. While all cities recorded very low ratios of green spaces per resident, Nicosia came up the worst by far. For every Nicosia resident, there is only 1.4 square metres (sqm) of greenery. According to international standards, the minimum ratio should be no less than eight square metres per resident, while most European capitals have over 10sqm per resident. The total area of green spaces in the capital adds up to 70,000sqm, counting for 13 per cent of the required green spaces as set by international standards, reported the Greens. Limassol records a better ration of 3.9sqm per resident, accounting for 270,000sqm, which still measures in at 40 per cent of the required space. Both Larnaca and Paphos have 3sqm per resident of green space, adding up to 30,000sqm in total, which counts for only 30 per cent of required level.The Greens highlighted that green spaces have a huge role to play in big cities. They change the picture of a city but also the mood of its residents. More greenery leads to a better quality of life and a cleaner environment. The ecologists said the onus was on local authorities to ensure enough green space was available in the cities, instead of sacrificing open spaces to build stadiums or public buildings.“We must all understand the size of the contribution that green spaces make to the quality of life of the citizen and that greenery is a precious social good for today’s residents and for future generations,” said the Greens.All the cities of Cyprus are missing adequate parks to satisfy the needs of a city in the 21st century, to tantalise all the senses by providing a place to rest under trees, smell the earth and flowers, daydream, listen to the birds and relax. Day by day, man is getting angrier and more aggressive, noted the Greens. The movement called on local authorities and the government to tackle the lack of greenery in our cities. One proposal is to adopt spaces for parks and get teams of residents to help maintain them in cooperation with municipalities. “They have an obligation to let citizens enjoy green spaces and live in a humane and healthy environment,” said the statement.