Environmentalists Call for Halt to Herbicide Use Along Roads in Cyprus

The Chamber of Landscape Architects under KTMMOB, together with several environmental organizations, has issued a statement against the use of herbicides (weed killers) in public spaces and along roadsides.

The published appeal emphasizes that chemical treatments, including those on the Nicosia–Famagusta highway and other sections across the island, pose serious risks to the environment and public health.

According to the authors of the statement, the use of herbicides can damage biodiversity, contaminate soil and groundwater, and pose a danger to bees and other pollinators. It is noted that certain substances, including glyphosate derivatives, have been linked to human health risks.

Environmentalists also expressed concern that wild edible herbs, popular in Cypriot cuisine, could be contaminated with chemicals and end up on residents' tables.

As an alternative, they propose abandoning chemical treatment in favor of mechanical mowing, taking into account natural flowering and seed-forming cycles. According to the organizations, this approach would preserve the soil, prevent erosion, and protect biodiversity.

In conclusion, the authors of the appeal urged state authorities and municipalities to review current practices and cease the use of herbicides in public spaces.