Ayluga Wetland in Mağusa Gains Strong Public Backing for Protection and Sustainable Use

A public perception survey on the Ayluga Wetland in Mağusa was completed under the EU‑funded Sustainable Wetland Initiative (SWIFT) and carried out by the Mağusa Women’s Center Association (MAKAMER). The study found that about 90 % of respondents consider Ayluga an important asset for the city and support its protection and integration into urban life. Around 94 % were already aware of the wetland, and participants highlighted its natural features—birds, green tissue, and wetland character—as key values.

Respondents indicated strong dissatisfaction with current conditions, citing pollution, inadequate cleaning (95.7 % rating it insufficient) and weak environmental regulation (93.9 %). They called for improvements such as walking trails, seating, security measures, bird‑watching facilities and environmental‑education programmes. While rejecting a fully closed space, residents favour a sustainably managed wetland that remains open for recreation, nature‑based activities and cultural events.