NICOSIA – Cyprus is increasingly relying on desalination to solve its critical water shortages, which have been exacerbated by climate change, a growing population, and a booming tourism sector. The stark image of the Saint Nicholas church, now exposed in the depleted Kouris Reservoir, symbolizes the country’s worsening water crisis.
The Cause of the Crisis
According to official reports, Cyprus has experienced a 15% drop in rainfall over the past 90 years. The capital, Nicosia, has seen its average temperature rise by 1.8 degrees Celsius in the last century, which is double the global average. This has transformed temporary dry spells into a long-term challenge. The country’s water deficit reached 66 million cubic meters in 2023, with demand tripling since 1990.
Desalination: A Necessary but Controversial Solution
Desalination, the process of removing salt from seawater to make it potable, was first adopted by Cyprus in 1997. It currently provides 70% of the country’s drinking water. The government plans to further expand its use to reduce reliance on unpredictable weather patterns.
However, environmental concerns remain. The desalination process produces a highly saline byproduct called brine, which, when released back into the sea, can harm marine ecosystems. Authorities are now exploring innovations to mitigate the environmental impact and prevent further land degradation.