Environmental law

Environmental matters and the relevant regulatory framework, within the Republic of Cyprus

Principally, most environmental matters are subject to the procedure for administrative recourses. Nevertheless, some environmental issues are decided under criminal or civil jurisdiction, e.g. the Law for Crimes against the environment Number 22(I)/2012 and Law on Environmental Liability, Number 189(1)/2007. In criminal procedures, everyone is entitled to report criminal acts (e.g. misuse of power by certain authorities) to the prosecutor. They can participate and bear witness at the proceedings. Remedies against court decisions are restricted to the prosecutor and the accused. READ MORE

Renewable Energy Sources, within the Republic of Cyprus

The European Union (EU) has already tuned its energy policy into achieving maximum carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions reduction from power generation plants. In this context, it has already set out a strategic objective of achieving at least a 20% reduction of greenhouse gases by 2020 compared to 1990 levels. This strategic objective represents the core of the new European energy policy. Recognizing the positive effects of renewable energy sources (RES) technologies towards achieving this goal, the EU has taken a range of specific actions in the direction of enhancing the integration of RES in the existing European power generation system as a major step towards the reduction of global warming and climate change phenomena. READ MORE

Environmental Policy and its Enforcement in Cyprus

Fundamental environmental policy in Cyprus and the agencies/bodies accountable for the administration and enforcement of environmental law: In 2004, following the EU accession of Cyprus, the environmental policy has been subjected to a fundamental review, in order to brought into line with over 300 legislative instruments (Regulations and Directives) and other action programmes which from part of the manifold, a complicated and detailed environmental chapter of the acquis communaitare. Although the new legislative framework is systematically comprehensive and clear in interpretation without leaving room for relaxations or illegalities, its implementation has not reached maximum levels of efficiency and progress is yet to be made for visible enhancement in the environment and quality of life. READ MORE

Sustainability & Green consciousness at THEOCHARIDOU & ASSOCIATES LLC

As one of the country’s leading environmental law firms, it is inevitable that Theocharidou & Associates Llc would take a leadership role in the field of sustainability, for law office management. In our offices, located in Nicosia and Paphos, Theocharidou & Associates Llc is interpreting its values into action, improving the Firm’s sustainability and reducing its environmental impacts. Below are some of the steps taken to date by Theocharidou & Associates Llc to improve the Firm’s environmental sustainability, and the results we have achieved: READ MORE