in the framework of the project ‘Culture and wetlands in the Mediterranean: using cultural values for wetland restoration’, two vivid educational panels promoting the area of the Larnaka Salt Lakes and its visitation were installed this week at the Arrivals Terminal of the International Airport of Larnaka and at the Passengers Station of Larnaka Port.
The Larnaka Salt Lakes are an impressive natural and cultural monument, encompassing the protected wetland, important archaeological sites and the traditional methods for harvesting salt. Together, these cultural and natural values reveal the bonds that unite people and nature over time. Promoting these values of the Larnaka area through sustainable forms of tourism and environmental education is an important way to protect the salt lakes more effectively. And by increasing public awareness of the wetland’s importance, especially amongst the younger generation – who in time will become the future users and stewards of the area – can help influence those responsible for it today. This conservation approach doesn’t seek to keep people away from nature, but relies on them to help protect it.
Larnaka leaflet (1.42 MB, PDF)
An accompanying leaflet was also produced, providing more information about the site and its rich natural and cultural heritage. The panels (designed by Printall and produced by Horizon) were put together using the contributions of many local stakeholders and dedicated individuals that supported the project (among which the Municipality of Larnaka, Larnaka Tourism Board and the Cyprus Tourism Organisation) to which Med-INA is indebted for their assistance. We are also grateful to Hermes Airports and the Cyprus Ports Authority for generously hosting the panels.
