BoC-backed study tracks tourism impact on Blue Lagoon’s biodiversity

Initial assessments have shown no observable impact by tourism activities on the biodiversity of the Blue Lagoon area of the Akamas Peninsula. However, the underwater noise pollution caused by the arrival, mooring and departure of vessels has been 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 impact of increased tourism activity in the Blue Lagoon.

These findings are the fruit of a year-long study (2023-24), conducted by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI), with the support of the Bank of Cyprus, to determine the potential impact of intensive tourism activities on the natural integrity of the Akamas Peninsula’s Blue Lagoon’s marine ecosystem.

CMMI scientists carried out seasonal water and sediment sampling (spring, summer, autumn and winter) in the Blue Lagoon area, 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).

The “Seaμμαχία for cleaner seas” programme is an initiative of the Bank of Cyprus, aimed at the scientific research and collection and compilation of data on the quality of coastal marine waters. Over 2022-23, a survey was carried out in the marine area of Ayia Napa Marina, in cooperation with the CYMEPA NGO and the Cyprus University of Technology (TEPAK), the results of which were announced at the end of 2023.