THE NEW VISION FOR THE LIMASSOL ZOO - FROM AN ANIMAL CAPTIVITY AREA, IT IS PROPOSED TO BE TRANSFORMED INTO A BIODIVERSITY AND URBAN ENVIRONMENT CENTRE - Filenews 28/2 - by Ioanna Mantziipa
After years of waiting, delays and discussions, the future of Limassol Zoo finally seems to be entering the final stretch. From an outdated animal captivity space, comes the big change to turn into an ambitious environmental center. Recently, the Municipal Council of the Municipality presented the new updated proposal of the Cyprus Centre for Environmental Research and Education of the Limassol Metropolis, for the conversion of the old zoo into a Biodiversity and Urban Environment Centre "Nature".
At this point in time, the new electronic public consultation implemented by CYKEPE on behalf of the Limassol Municipality is underway. It aimed to record the views of citizens and institutions on the proposed future and the new role of the space, which is called upon to evolve into a modern center of environmental education, awareness and urban sustainability. Citizen participation is crucial, as the results will lead to informed decisions about the future of the Zoo and the quality of life in the city. The process remains open to this day, while a live public consultation will be held on 4/3, at the Panos Solomonides Cultural Center.
Speaking to "F", Dr. Andreas Hadjichambis, scientific director of the Cyprus Centre for Environmental Research and Education (CYCEE), said that this proposal is seen as an opportunity for the city of Limassol to create something innovative, visitable and environmentally friendly, which will serve citizens and families, while at the same time opening up prospects for the city beyond the borders of Cyprus through the International Environmental Citizenship Network.
The first indications of the online consultation are positive
Regarding the online consultation and the first indications, Dr. Hatzihambis revealed that "they are quite positive. We can confirm this." He noted that particularly positive views are expressed on the 11 characteristics of this proposal and embrace the new vision that is being created for the city. "We are waiting for the completion of the consultations and the proposal, together with the views of the citizens, will be submitted again to the Municipal Council."
New updated proposal from CYCSEE
The study proposes the creation of a modern, welcoming and open space that will respond to the modern values of society and the great challenges of the time, such as the climate crisis and the protection of biodiversity. The space will be remodelled into a vibrant and accessible public core where nature, knowledge, innovation, technology and culture will coexist harmoniously.
Development of the "FYSI" Center
The "FYSI" Center aspires to be a meeting point for all ages, from children and families to schools, researchers and professionals. Through modern educational programs, digital applications, and collaborations with international organizations, the Center will enhance social cohesion and environmental awareness, promoting sustainable development and climate resilience.
Strategy and innovative approaches
The proposal includes innovative actions such as the creation of "living labs" for experiential education, the use of technology with interactive and digital stations, the development of urban habitats and the creation of new spaces for art and culture, all with the aim of enhancing environmental awareness and citizen participation. The evolution of the space will offer multiple benefits and will contribute to the upgrading of the quality of life of the residents and the ecological balance in the city.
11 interconnected axes
The proposal of the CYCSEE is based on eleven interrelated axes that promote experiential learning, environmental awareness and citizen participation, creating a new relationship between man and nature.
Termination of the current situation of ZKL
The termination of the operation of the former Zoo as an animal captivity area, aligned with modern principles of welfare and ethical treatment. The removal of the animals will be done according to scientific protocols, in certified shelters, with full transparency and respect for their welfare. This change marks the transition from the model of "exhibition" to the model of "symbiosis", promoting Limassol as a pioneering city of environmental citizenship.
Educational and Educational Dimension
The Center's operation is organized around experiential educational programs for schools, families and adults, with themes such as urban microclimate and thermal islands, urban rivers, light pollution, urban birds, green mobility and nature-based solutions.
International Reach and Networking
In collaboration with the CYCERE of the International Network for Environmental Citizenship, it transforms the space into a hub of information, research, international networking and active environmental citizenship for biodiversity and the environment.
Green Recreation Shelter
The space will also function as a green refuge for recreation, rest and contact with nature, offering places of tranquility, shading and rest within the urban fabric, while at the same time harmoniously combining recreation, education and environmental awareness
The creation of small habitats, observation microenvironments and surface microlakes is an innovative approach to the Cypriot data, as it introduces a new model of presentation and understanding of ecosystems within the urban fabric.
As the subject of the city's Master Plan, the space is treated holistically and not piecemeal, functioning as a multifunctional public green core that connects nature, knowledge, culture and social life.
Interactive and digital thematic stations
Interactive and digital thematic stations will provide interactive maps, databases, photographs, audio files and information on Natura 2000 species, habitats and sites, allowing the visitor to plan their route and discover the flora and fauna of Cyprus in a scientifically documented way
Research and Scientific Dimension
The research dimension of the new Centre aims to connect Cyprus with the international scientific community, promoting conservation programmes, biodiversity studies and participatory science.
Citizens get more shade, fresh air, quiet places for walking, contact with nature and social gatherings, as well as opportunities to participate in experiential activities that strengthen environmental awareness and citizenship. At the same time, the city benefits from the increase of greenery, the reduction of the heat island, the upgrading of the aesthetics of the urban landscape and the strengthening of social cohesion
Integrating Art and Culture
The development of the Environmental Art Trail, with environmental sculptures made from natural and recycled materials, art installations and temporary exhibitions, is an innovative approach to Cypriot standards, highlighting art as a tool for understanding nature and cultivating empathy towards biodiversity.
Strategic cooperation with CYCSEE
The strategic cooperation with the CNCI substantially strengthens the operation and scientific credibility of the new Center, utilizing the international networking that the CNCI has with 88 research centers and universities from 39 countries, the know-how and experience of the organization in environmental education, environmental research and environmental awareness.
