Surveillance cameras to be installed at illegal dump sites in Cyprus

Authorities in Cyprus have received conditional approval from the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection to install surveillance cameras at illegal dump sites across the countryside. This measure, discussed during a meeting at the Ministry of Interior, aims to prevent the recurring creation of unauthorized waste disposal areas that frequently trigger environmental degradation and wildfires. Officials noted that there are over 850 such illegal dump sites currently identified throughout the country.

To ensure legal compliance, Commissioner Maria Christofidou emphasized that the initiative must strictly adhere to personal data protection protocols. This includes the implementation of appropriate technical and organizational security measures, restricted access to data, and clear public notification regarding the presence of cameras. Municipalities and local communities are now required to submit a data protection impact assessment for individual sites to receive final authorization.

While the project is moving forward, officials confirmed that installations will not be completed during the current summer season. Instead, the focus has shifted toward finalizing the regulatory framework, with the goal of having the surveillance system operational in the near future. This initiative marks a significant shift in environmental management strategy, transitioning from reactive cleanup efforts to proactive monitoring to discourage illegal dumping.