**Title: Cyprus Transport Emissions Exceed EU Average Amidst Traffic Congestion**
A recent report from the European Commission has revealed that transport emissions in Cyprus accounted for 37.9 percent of the island's total greenhouse gas emissions in 2023, significantly higher than the EU average of 31 percent. The report, titled "Transport and Tourism in the European Union – Current Trends and Issues," provides a detailed analysis of transport and tourism developments across the EU, including specific data for each member state.
The report highlights that transport-related greenhouse gas emissions in Cyprus totaled approximately 3.9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. This figure underscores the heavy reliance on private vehicles, with 83.5 percent of domestic passenger transport conducted by private cars. This is slightly above the EU average of 82 percent. In contrast, buses and coaches accounted for 16.5 percent of domestic transport in Cyprus, which is notably higher than the EU average of 8.2 percent.
In addition to emissions data, the report sheds light on traffic congestion in Cyprus. On average, drivers in the country lost 40.2 hours in peak-time traffic during 2023, a stark contrast to the EU average of 28.6 hours. This congestion not only impacts daily commutes but also contributes to the overall emissions problem, as idling vehicles in traffic contribute to higher greenhouse gas outputs.
Despite these challenges, Cyprus has made strides in road safety. The island ranked eighth among the EU's 27 member states for the lowest number of road deaths per million inhabitants, with 36 fatalities recorded per million people in 2023. It also ranked 14th for the lowest number of deaths relative to distance traveled, with 46 fatalities for every 10 billion passenger kilometers.
The report also addresses the progress made in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Cyprus. The power-output target set under the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation was 608 kilowatts, while the island's total available charging output significantly exceeded this target, reaching 15,472 kilowatts. This indicates a growing commitment to supporting electric vehicles as part of the broader effort to reduce transport emissions.
In terms of aviation, Larnaca Airport emerged as the busiest in Cyprus in 2024, handling nearly 8.9 million passengers. Overall, passenger traffic at the island's airports totaled 12.5 million, accounting for 0.8 percent of the EU's total. Larnaca Airport also managed almost all of the air cargo, processing 30,600 tonnes out of a national total of 30,700 tonnes.
Maritime transport statistics reveal that Limassol is the largest port for passenger traffic in Cyprus, accommodating 9,000 passengers in 2024. Zygi port, on the other hand, is the most significant for cargo, handling 4.2 million tonnes, which is 47 percent of the island's total port freight of 8.9 million tonnes.
The European Commission's report emphasizes the importance of transport services in supporting economic resilience, enhancing quality of life, and addressing climate and environmental challenges. The transport sector in the EU comprises approximately 1.4 million private and public companies, employing around 10.4 million people and providing essential goods and services.
The report also touches on tourism trends, noting that 2025 is projected to be a record year for activity across the EU, with over three billion nights spent in tourist accommodations. Major countries such as Spain, France, Germany, and Italy are expected to account for more than 60 percent of all overnight stays.
In conclusion, while Cyprus faces significant challenges regarding transport emissions and traffic congestion, the data also reflects positive developments in road safety and electric vehicle infrastructure. The European Commission's report serves as a crucial resource for understanding the current state of transport and tourism in Cyprus and the broader EU context, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability and connectivity in the transport sector.