The message that "the transition to climate neutrality is not an abstract ambition for the future, but an urgent, practical and collective mission of the present" has been sent by the Mayor of Limassol, Yiannis Armeftis.
Armeftis was delivering the opening speech at the 'Climate Neutral Blue Cities by 2030: Accelerating Local Change under the EU Cities and Ocean Missions - Limassol on the Path to Climate Neutrality' conference organised by the Limassol Municipality.
During his speech, in a packed hall, Armeftis stated that "Limassol is a city with a long history and strong identity, but also a city that has chosen to be at the forefront of the European transition towards a climate-neutral future."
According to the Mayor, "Limassol's participation in the 100 European cities for 2030 is not just a distinction, but a substantial political commitment to the way in which the city is planned, energy is managed, mobility is shaped and public space is utilised."
At the same time, he noted that "climate neutrality is not seen as a narrow environmental goal, but as a comprehensive transformation that concerns economic resilience, social cohesion, innovation, governance and quality of life", pointing out that this is a new model of urban development.
As he underlined, "Limassol is a dynamic Mediterranean city, with strong growth, entrepreneurship and international orientation, but which at the same time faces pressures from urbanisation, traffic congestion, energy challenges and increasing climate risks."
He made particular reference to the importance of the city's relationship with the sea, emphasising that "for cities like Limassol, the sea is not just part of the landscape, but an element of their history, economy and future," noting that the connection between the city, coastline and port is a crucial issue.
Furthermore, he highlighted that "the transition to climate neutrality cannot be achieved through piecemeal or isolated projects, but requires a systemic approach, strategic coordination, investment, scientific knowledge and political courage."
As Armeftis explained, "no city can achieve this transition alone," underlining the need for a new alliance between local governments, national governments, European institutions, academia, the private sector and civil society.
Finally, he stated that "the goal is to create a coherent framework of cooperation that will allow for the implementation of practical solutions and the acceleration of the transition," emphasising that success will depend on collective action and the active participation of all those involved.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
