Turkish Cypriot Environmental Scientist Ergün Bey made a statement on his social media account regarding the heat wave experienced in the previous month.
Pointing out that the heat wave is causing the photosynthesis rate of the Cyprus forests to slow down significantly, Ergün Bey emphasized that it is the first time this has happened.
The statement is as follows:
“Following my investigations comparing satellite data from 2000 to the end of April 2024, I can clearly say that such an event has been recorded for the first time on our island. Sudden rising temperatures at the end of April have caused the forests to respire, just like humans do, rather than performing photosynthesis. It is known that trees react like this to protect themselves when they are under heat stress. I will publish this incident in an important scientific journal. Climate change will continue to gradually desertify the island of Cyprus. If we do not take precautions, we will pay a heavy price.”