The role of environmental education as a tool for environmental management in Cyprus

• Published in: Environmental management and health 2002-12, Vol.13 (5), p.529-544
• Main Authors: Skanavis, Constantina, Sarri, Evelina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0956-6163; 1758-7085
• DOI: 10.1108/09566160210441816

This paper examines the social structure and public services in Cyprus. It examines the need for an environmental awareness assessment of the citizens in order to determine how critical thinking and problem solving skills on issues of environmental significance could be promoted. An analysis of environmental health concerns existing in the island is conducted and the educational process taking place, the implemented environmental policy and the extent of citizen participation are studied. The challenge of environmental education in Cyprus is discussed in detail and the environmental awareness efforts are presented. The authors highlight the way in which Cyprus (pursuing membership into the European Union) has to adapt to and implement certain directives, where environmental awareness should be intensely promoted. The authors present the links between each enforced European directive and the relation to the Cypriot way of life. Finally, we discuss why Cyprus will need European aid to implement such policies and how the recommended environmental education program will contribute to a higher quality of life. Recommendations outline details on how to launch a successful non-formal environmental education program.