Recently, Cyprus has been developing and advancing at a rapid rate in order to improve the living quality of its citizens. However, rapid development poses new challenges for policymaking. The purpose of the Environmental Impact Assessment Law (N.102(I)/2005) is to protect the environment and integrate development with environmental considerations. This is achieved through the preparation and approval of plans and programs to promote sustainable development.
The Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment is a systematic process for assessing the environmental impact of proposed policies, plans, and programs, including:
• Investigation of environmental issues through scientific studies and assessments that focus on the environmental impacts of the proposed plan or program at a detailed strategic level.
• Setting environmental goals and specific regulations that are in accordance with the current legislation.
• Consultation with the competent authorities and stakeholders.
• Examination of alternative solutions of proposed plan and program.
• Perform Environmental Investigation and integrate the results into the proposed plan or program
• Establish a monitoring system for future impacts that may be caused by the implementation of the plan or program
