The Forest Department has continued its long-running push to embed environmental education in Cyprus schools, with a reforestation project in Malia forming the centrepiece of its latest initiative.
The tree-planting took place last February in an area of the community scarred by last summer’s destructive wildfire.
Organised by the Forest Department, the activity saw students from Trinity Private Secondary School plant more than 50 saplings under the guidance of department officers, contributing hands-on to the restoration of the fire-damaged land.
The project formed part of a wider educational programme that concluded in June, when a Forest Department officer visited Trinity Private Secondary School to give a presentation on the role of forests, the impact of wildfires, prevention measures and the importance of reforestation, driving home the message of individual and collective responsibility for protecting the natural environment.
Students who took part were awarded certificates, prepared jointly by the Forest Department and the school, in recognition of their contribution to the reforestation effort and their active involvement in environmental-education activities.
The department said it recognised the importance of youth participation in such projects, which it believes play a significant role in cultivating environmental awareness and fostering a relationship of respect and responsibility towards Cyprus’s forests and natural wealth.
It said it would continue to roll out information, education and awareness activities in a practical, methodical way, aimed at strengthening young people’s connection with the natural environment and promoting the sustainable management of forest ecosystems.
