NEWS & EVENTS
Case Study 4 In Cyprus: Consideration of species loss caused by expansion of energy centre
The main aim of this Case Study is to support informed decision-making for the implementation of Vasilikos Area Spatial Master Plan (VASMP). The implementation of VASMP, which foresees the expansion of the industrial activities of the energy centre and the creation of new infrastructure to ensure this, is expected to have negative impact on ecosystems (both terrestrial and marine), biodiversity and the environment (e.g., air quality, chemical and water pollution).
All activities foreseen in the VASMP are for the benefit of the society and are important for economy without though meaning that they have a zero-carbon footprint or a positive impact on human health, climate change, water/air quality and more. That’s why it is important to take into consideration the impact on biodiversity and ecosystem services before the Plan is implemented.
Objectives:
• To collect information, clarify inaccuracies and evaluate the proposed activities of the VASMP.
• To evaluate the impact of the above proposed activities and the degree of negative impact on ecological and biological conditions in a wider area, which extends over the limits of the industry zone of Vasilikos area.
• To integrate the available/ collected data, validate them and produce outputs that can support the final decision for the approval (or not) of the proposed activity.
• To evaluate the activities/plans already implemented and to monitor the efficiency of the proposed and/or implemented measures
• To assist decision making and put in place green and blue initiatives to help minimize the adverse effects of climate change and anthropogenic activities on urban ecosystems.
GUARDEN Tools and Progress:
• Pl@ntNet: Identification of plant species from photographs. During field visits, two habitat types have been recorded: 5210 – Arborescent matorral with Juniperus phoenicea and 9320 – Olea and Ceratonia forest. Within each habitat type, three random sampling transects were taken, including 10 plots (50×50 cm) per transect. Thirteen plots per habitat type in total were recorded. Within each plot, all plant species were recorded, including their cover and phenology stage. All data, accompanied by a picture of each plot, have been uploaded to Pl@ntNet website.
• Bird Sound Identification: Identification of bird species based on audio recordings, particularly for users who may not be experts. To date, four bird sound identification devices were installed, two in natural areas (see habitat types above) and two in cultivations. Recordings are in progress and once collected will be evaluated by NATURALIS.
• Future Scenarios Maps: Quantification and mapping of the future states of biodiversity and ecosystem services under different policy and climate scenarios. Species distribution models, climate & stakeholders’ projections. An ecosystem services map will be generated.
