‘It’s become a dumping ground’

Garbage is piling up on the shores of Potamos Liopetri harbour – degrading a protected nature site and exposing a serious flaw in how Cyprus deals with illegal dumping.

Liopetri beach, with its rocky shores and crystal waters, was once a scene fit for a postcard. But now, this picturesque area is littered with building materials, garden cuttings and empty bottles.  

“It was an area of outstanding natural beauty,” one resident said. “It’s really distressing to see how people...