The “Seaμμαχία for cleaner seas” programme is an initiative of the Bank of Cyprus aimed at the scientific research and the collection and compilation of data on the quality of coastal marine waters.

Akamas Peninsula

These findings result from a year-long study (2023-2024) conducted by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) to determine the potential impact of intensive tourism activities on the natural integrity of the marine ecosystem in the Blue Lagoon of the Akamas Peninsula, in Cyprus.

Scientists from CMMI carried out seasonal water and sediment sampling (spring, summer, autumn, winter) in the Blue Lagoon area, mainly to identify various chemical contaminants (e.g. heavy metals, sunscreen ingredients) and microbiological organisms, and to record environmental parameters and the general biodiversity of the area (fish fauna and benthic organisms).

Initial assessments showed no observable impact on the biodiversity of the Blue Lagoon area of the Akamas Peninsula by tourism activities. However, the underwater noise pollution caused by the arrival, mooring and departure of vessels was noticeable, as confirmed by the high noise levels measured by a special hydrophone used during sampling.

Additionally, copper levels exceeding environmental limits have been observed in marine sediments during the summer period, probably due to the increased passage and anchoring of ships in the area, as antifouling paints often used on the exterior of ships contain copper as one of the components. Exposure to high concentrations of copper can be environmentally harmful as it can alter the photosynthetic capacity of algae and, inter alia, affect the growth of other important benthic organisms (e.g. corals). Heavy metals, such as copper, can also bioaccumulate in fish and molluscs and affect the food chain.

The importance of this research is that it provides the basis for a long-term study of the potential impacts of increased tourism activity in the Blue Lagoon.


Ayia Napa Marina

In 2022-2023, a survey was carried out in the marine area of Ayia Napa Marina (Cyprus), in cooperation with CYMEPA NGO and the Cyprus University of Technology (TEPAK), the results of which were first announced at the end of 2023.

The project includes the study and installation of a pilot system for monitoring and recording important water quality parameters in real time in the area of the Ayia Napa Marina. The main goal is the provision of early detection of pollution indices which in turn provides warnings for necessary corrective actions to ensure environmental protection, not only for the Ayia Napa area, but also other coasts of Cyprus thus creating a national sea water quality control system. A database is being created for further studies aiming to contribute to the development of methods of protecting the marine environment.

The pilot program is implemented by the EMERGE research group of the Cyprus University of Technology in collaboration with CYMEPA and the Ayia Napa Marina.