The possibility of further expansion of the quarrying activity in Sia, after the granting of an exploration permit, causes serious concerns for the community and the natural environment, says the Federation of Environmental Organizations of Cyprus (OPOK).
In a statement, the OPOK states that its position is "no further expansion of the quarry, small or large" and adds that it supports the community's request for the preservation of the pine-covered Xylia hill, an integral element of the landscape and the identity of Shia.
"This position is not directed against quarrying activity or development, as long as they are carried out with respect for people and the environment," he says and adds that "proper siting, compliance with environmental conditions, systematic controls and restoration of the affected areas are basic conditions for the exercise of an activity that will not work to the detriment of residents and ecosystems."
In addition, the OPOK states that the issue was discussed in the Parliamentary Committee on the Environment, where "the need for systematic controls, transparency and restoration of the affected areas was highlighted" and adds that "the report made during the session that the last inspections were carried out in 2019 is of particular concern".
He also states that as presented during the session, the exploration permit concerns the investigation of the reserves and the quality of the rock, under specific conditions and "does not constitute a permit for the expansion of the quarry nor does it exempt any activity from the prescribed environmental obligations and the required approvals".
"The absence of an environmental examination in recent years makes the need for a comprehensive assessment of the situation even more imperative," he adds.
Finally, the OPOK calls on the competent authorities to exclude any further expansion of the quarry and to proceed immediately, among other things, to a comprehensive environmental assessment of the quarrying activity, including the cumulative effects on the area, with the effective participation of the community, to systematic controls and publication of updated measurements for dust, noise and vibrations and to take immediate and effective measures to reduce it nuisance.
