The Limassol District Local Government Organisation (EOA) has presented a new comprehensive programme aimed at reducing water consumption by 10% and improving the management of water resources. The project combines infrastructure upgrades, an information campaign and educational initiatives for residents of all ages.
Head of the Limassol EOA Yiannis Tsouloftas stressed that the programme is based on practical solutions and is intended to help change residents’ everyday habits. The campaign’s main message is simple: saving water is easier than it seems.
The need for such measures is driven by the ongoing drought. In recent years, Cyprus has repeatedly faced a shortage of rainfall, while water levels in reservoirs remain significantly below long-term averages. As a result, the efficient use of water has become one of the country’s key priorities.
Information Campaign and Public Education
The campaign began in March 2026 with social media posts and videos highlighting simple ways to reduce water consumption. These were followed by three humorous videos featuring young Orfeas Solomou, who explains how water can be saved while:
- washing a car;
- watering and washing pavements;
- using a washing machine.
The next stage included television commercials, radio messages and outdoor advertising. Their main theme was collective responsibility for preserving water resources. Much of the material was filmed at the Kouris Reservoir — Cyprus’ largest artificial reservoir, which plays a crucial role in supplying the island with water. In the near future, the authorities also plan to implement several additional educational projects:
- publish recommendations on the efficient use of water;
- prepare a children’s book and puppet show;
- organise quizzes and presentations for schoolchildren.
Water Supply Upgrades and New Water Sources
Alongside the information campaign, upgrades to public utility infrastructure are continuing. A major project to replace 100 km of water pipes in central Limassol begins on August 6. The project is expected to significantly reduce water losses caused by leaks, which remain one of the main problems affecting ageing networks. Cyprus’ Ministry of Agriculture is also expanding the use of alternative water sources. Its priorities include:
- increasing desalination capacity;
- expanding the use of treated wastewater in agriculture;
- developing a sustainable water supply system in response to climate change.
Such projects are becoming increasingly important as Cyprus gradually becomes more dependent on seawater desalination, while the reuse of treated wastewater is considered one of the most promising solutions for irrigation.
Why Saving Water Is Becoming Vital
According to Andreas Gregoriou, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, climate change is already having a noticeable impact on Cyprus. Rising temperatures, declining rainfall and longer periods of drought require a reassessment of how water is consumed. Another important trend is the annual increase in demand. According to ministry estimates, water consumption on the island is rising by approximately 6% each year. This is linked to population growth, the development of tourism, the construction of new residential complexes and increasing agricultural needs.
The authorities stress that even small changes in the everyday habits of millions of residents can significantly reduce water consumption. This is why infrastructure modernisation is being combined with educational programmes and public initiatives designed to help foster a new culture of responsible water use in Cyprus.