My name is Christina. I began my studies with a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from the UK and I have recently graduated from my Master’s degree in Tropical Biology and Conservation from Australia. I have a general interest in ecology and environmental management, particularly in relation to habitat and wildlife conservation. I am passionate about protecting habitats and species.

 

I am currently an intern with AKTI and I have been here since the start of October of this year.

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I always believed the NGO sector was one of the better areas to be involved in when you have an interest in protecting the environment in any meaningful way. Through AKTI, I was exposed to the many different ways NGOs operate and gained a further understanding on the specific actions of such organisations.

 

As the name suggests, AKTI runs a number of projects that involve the protection of the marine environment. However, we also apply ourselves to projects that cover a range of SDGs such as Sustainable Conferences and Astrotourism or community actions including toy collections for Christmas.

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As for the situation in Cyprus regarding the SDG's, I think that with education and greater reach in schools,

more attention can be drawn to the existence of SDGs and begin teaching children about such concepts from a young age. This will help form a generation with a greater understanding of world issues.

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However, realistically, I do not think the SDGs will be fully achieved by 2030. There are a number of SDGs, all with a very specific set of criteria that require a lot of work over an extended period of time to achieve them. Based on the point Cyprus is at now with the SDGs, I think an incredible amount of effort and dedication is needed to reach these goals by 2030.

 

Which of the SDG's would need more action and attention from the people in Cyprus (both individuals and organizations)?

 

In my opinion, Cyprus needs work on most, if not all, the SDGs, but I believe that as a nation we need to act towards protecting our natural environment. This includes our climate, our oceans and our forests as I find these are often not given priority and they are all vital for the appropriate functioning of our small island.

 

From a personal point of view, what SDGs do you feel the most strongly connected to and why?  

 

I personally feel the most connected to SDGs regarding the environment, particularly marine life and forests. As a zoologist and conservation ecologist, I have had experience with the management of nature and the pressures it faces. Cyprus has a unique diversity of flora and fauna, both on land and in the sea, and this diversity needs to be protected.

 

 

Do you have any other suggestions/recommendations for the people that are reading this interview regarding the SDG's?  

 

I think it is a good idea for people to be aware of the SDGs and read through the criteria themselves to form their own opinions and understanding on the matter.