NOUS: A Pioneering Urban Sustainability Hub for a Greener Future

The ground-breaking Urban Sustainability Hub “NOUS” was inaugurated on Friday, December 8, 2023, by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, alongside political and state representatives.

“NOUS”, which is now fully operational and ready to serve citizens, aims to promote a model of urban development based on innovative entrepreneurship, making our cities sustainable, livable, and resilient to the negative impacts of climate change. Additionally, “NOUS” is expected to contribute to adopting a sustainability culture and creating a networking environment for actions related to sustainable urban development.

In his welcoming address, the Mayor of Strovolos, Mr. Andreas Papacharalambous, noted that the creation of the Urban Sustainability Hub “NOUS” is a step towards the broader development of the historical center of Strovolos, in alignment with the municipal council's plans for implementation by 2030. “In Strovolos, we are fostering green development, rooted in environmental consciousness, and highlighted that at “NOUS”, citizens can collaborate with the Municipal Council in shaping the future of our city”, he emphasized.

The President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Nikos Christodoulides praised “NOUS” Hub as a pioneering collaborative project, where the contributions of local academic and scientific institutions play a crucial role in implementing an innovative development model that positively transforms the character of our municipalities. “NOUS” provides an excellent opportunity for exchanging views, networking, and cultivating a sustainability culture while addressing significant environmental and social challenges”, he stated. He also, underscored the importance of investing in research and innovation, leveraging opportunities offered by the EU.

CyI President, Prof. Stavros Malas, highlighted the Institute’s role in cultivating a sustainability culture in collaboration with the University of Cyprus and the Municipality of Strovolos. “Promoting sustainable development goals is fundamental for creating a sustainable and healthy economy. Taking action to promote innovative business ideas is crucial for addressing key challenges related to environmental and social development”, he concluded.

Rector of the University of Cyprus, Prof. Tasos Christofides, indicated that “NOUS” would be the center uniting efforts for a better tomorrow, supporting those who wish to create innovative solutions for the challenges we face. “The space will serve as a platform where the educational community, the municipality, and society collaborate to develop sustainable solutions”, he noted.

During the inauguration of the Urban Sustainability Hub “NOUS”, PwC Cyprus presented the strategy and corresponding sustainability action plan for the Hub.

“NOUS” is part of the European U-SOLVE strategic project, funded by ENI CBC MED, focusing on the environment, green economy, innovation, digital reform, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Project partners in Cyprus include The Cyprus Institute, who is leading the project, the University of Cyprus and the Municipality of Strovolos. U-SOLVE involves similar actions in Italy, Greece, Egypt, Jordan, and Palestine.