Nicosia Center Awarded Prestigious Environmental Prize

In 2023, the Cyprus Center for Environmental Research and Education (Cycere) awarded Nicosia the "Green City" prize for "sustainable movement and transportation." The award was given for the reconstruction of Makarios, Stasikratous, and Evagoros streets near the city center.

As a result of this award, Cyprus automatically joins the Cycere Green Cities and Communities Network, which also includes the village of Kissonerga in Paphos.

The Nicosia Municipality stated that the restoration of Makarios, Stasikratous, and Evagoros streets was an "innovation."

"The idea is that through strengthening sustainable mobility, the experience of a modern, upgraded, and high-quality urban space can attract new life through various activities and investments without the traffic jams, noise, and air pollution resulting from private car trips," the municipality's statement said.

It is also claimed that these roads are the first example of "shared space" in Cyprus, where cars are allowed but must give priority to other forms of transportation.

The reconstructed area includes "principles of urban bioclimatic planning, smart city infrastructure, and charging points for electric vehicles and bicycles." Additionally, these roads are designed to accommodate the possibility of organizing tram traffic.

The award ceremony for Nicosia and Kissonerga with the Green Flag will take place at the Presidential Palace.