AKTI Project and Research Centre, with the support of Chevron Cyprus, has launched an environmental and community-restoration initiative to restore areas in the Laona region of Limassol, which were affected by wildfires in July 2025.
Significantly dependent on agriculture, wineries, and agrotourism, the region suffered major damage during the fires, which destroyed natural ecosystems and placed livelihoods at risk.
With Chevron’s support and the cooperation of the area’s communities, AKTI is leading the effort to rebuild critical environmental infrastructure, helping to strengthen the economy and build natural resilience against future wildfires.
Rebuilding the Elytzis Nature Trail
The project’s main focus is the restoration of the Elytzis Nature Trail, an 1,800-meter track that links the villages of Lofou and Sylikou. Drawing more than 10,000 visitors annually, the trail is one of the area’s most important eco-tourism attractions.
Large sections of the trail, including steps, rock structures, vegetation, and habitats for endemic species, were severely damaged during the fire.
The project will rebuild the trail, as well as the Elytzi fountain, an integral feature of the route, and restore native vegetation in the surrounding area while improving fire resilience through planting of almond trees, grapevines, and prickly pear plants, whose succulent pads are known for their ability to resist flames.
This nature-based solution, designed and monitored by AKTI’s scientific team, will serve as a model for wildfire-resilient practices that can be replicated across Cyprus.
AKTI Chairperson Dr Xenia Loizidou said, “Cyprus is on the frontline of climate change, and wildfires are among its most devastating consequences. We must shift our mindset—this is the moment for immediate action, for implementing real solutions rather than relying on declarations and theories. Innovation and collaboration are essential. Climate resilience goes hand in hand with conserving nature and applying nature-based solutions. That is exactly what we are doing here, with the support of Chevron and in collaboration with the affected community.”
Chevron Cyprus Country Manager Basil Allam said, “We are proud to stand with Cyprus in its fire-relief and recovery efforts by supporting AKTI’s vital work in Laona. Our long-standing partnership with AKTI shows Chevron’s commitment to protecting the environment, empowering people, and doing things the right way. We believe this project will strengthen the impacted local communities, restore damaged ecosystems, and create lasting benefits for both people and nature.”
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