Local Organizers

Marios Andreou

Nature Conservation Unit
Frederick University
(CYPRUS)

Charalambos Christodoulou

Department of Forests
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment
(CYPRUS)

Constantinos Kounnamas

Nature Conservation Unit
Frederick University
(CYPRUS)

Frederick University

Among University’s key operational pillars is the advancement and transfer of knowledge through basic and applied research work as well as the encouragement of the creative output of its faculty members. Frederick University aims to continuously enhance its standing as a reputable research institution of international standards, with significant contributions to science and technology, and innovations for the benefit of local and European economy and society.

Through its Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) activities, the University aspires to be an exemplary case in Cyprus in research to industry/society links with significant impact in advancement of the local economy through innovative application of new knowledge developed at the University or through collaborations with other research organizations.

To support and facilitate the Technology Transfer aims of its R&I Strategy, the University has adopted an Intellectual Property Policy. The policy is based on internationally accepted principles that govern the ownership rights emanating from research of and/or materials produced by the University’s members of staff and students, and establishes objectively fair and equitable criteria for the transfer of knowledge.

Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment

The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment aims at promoting sustainable development for agriculture and fishing, while contributing to environmental protection and sustainable management of both the environment and Cyprus natural resources through projects, initiatives and actions.

The vision of the Forestry Department is to maintain forests in optimal condition and to achieve the highest possible environmental, social, and economic benefits. These benefits are to be balanced, grounded in the principle of sustainability, and aligned with the expectations of society.

Mission
The mission of the Forestry Department is to protect and promote sustainable forest management while enhancing green spaces through:

  • Developing and implementing Forest Policy and Legislation
  • Protecting forests from fires, climate change, and other threats
  • Strengthening the protective functions of forests
  • Preserving biodiversity
  • Promoting forest-based recreation
  • Producing forest products.

Nature Conservation Unit (NCU)

The Nature Conservation Unit (NCU) was established in 2005 and operates under the Frederick University and Frederick Research Center. It specialises on biodiversity conservation, natural resources management and conservation, and environmental education and awareness in Cyprus. NCU was the first department in the Cypriot academic system that started dealing with issues relating to nature conservation.

More specifically, the Unit focuses on the study, monitoring, management and conservation of the Cyprus flora, fauna and habitats of Cyprus and the conservation and management of ecologically important areas of the island. Moreover, it aims at the promotion of awareness and education among the people of Cyprus about major environmental issues. The members and collaborating scientists of the NCU have extensive experience on conservation biology, natural resources management and environmental education and awareness.