Creative Workshop Inspiring Fifth Graders to Care for the Sea

Via Pontica News

As part of the initiatives accompanying the photo exhibition “Reflections on the Sea”, the Via Pontica Foundation held a creative workshop with fifth-grade students from Hristo Botev Primary School, focused on environmental education and the protection of the marine environment. The meeting with the children was a natural continuation of the idea that the exhibition should not be merely a visual experience, but also an opportunity for dialogue, reflection, and active engagement of young people with topics related to nature and its future.

The workshop was led by Prof. Pepa Miteva, who introduced the students to the role of art as a means of expressing attitudes toward the environment. Through discussions and creative tasks, the children were encouraged to share their vision of the sea—how they perceive it today and how they would like it to look tomorrow. A key emphasis of the activity was the idea of a clean, vibrant, and protected sea that can remain so for future generations.

With great imagination and enthusiasm, the students created their own drawings in which the sea came to life as a space filled with colors, life, and harmony. Many of the artworks clearly reflected the children’s personal relationship with nature—their desire to see it preserved, respected, and loved. The drawing process became not only a creative activity, but also a way for the children to reflect on their own role in protecting the environment.

The drawings created during the workshop will be exhibited in the school building, where they will remain accessible to students, parents, and visitors over the coming weeks. In this way, the message of the workshop will reach a wider audience and continue to remind everyone that caring for the sea begins at an early age—through knowledge, sensitivity, and personal example.

The creative workshop is part of the broader efforts of the Via Pontica Foundation to work with children and young people on topics related to the blue economy, sustainable development, and the protection of the Black Sea ecosystem. Through such initiatives, the foundation aims to build not only awareness among young people, but also a lasting sense of responsibility and commitment to nature.

The event was implemented with the support of the European Union – NextGenerationEU.

TFA in Cereals — New Study Reveals Widespread Contamination Across Europe

Via Pontica News

A new pan-European study shows that Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) — a persistent “forever chemical” — is present in the majority of tested cereal-derived foods, including bread, pasta, flour and breakfast cereals. Out of 66 samples collected across 16 countries, TFA was found in nearly 82 % of them, with average concentrations around 79 µg/kg and peaks up to 360 µg/kg. Many of these products exceed conventional safety thresholds used for toxic residues.

The findings raise serious concerns because TFA accumulates in the environment and may pose long-term health risks. As a degradation product of fluorinated chemicals, it is not yet regulated in food — meaning most consumers are likely unaware of their daily exposure.

For organisations and individuals concerned about environmental contamination, food safety, or public health, this report underlines the urgent need for:

  • Comprehensive monitoring of TFA and related “forever chemicals” in food, soil and water;

  • Stricter regulation or bans on fluorinated chemicals used in agriculture;

  • Support for sustainable, chemical-free farming and pesticide-free agriculture.

 Read the full report here: TFA in Cereals Report – Dec 2025

“Reflections on the Sea” Arrives in Chernomorets

Via Pontica News

The travelling photo exhibition “Reflections on the Sea” by Hristo Anestev, organised by Via Pontica Foundation, continues its journey along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and, as of yesterday, can now be seen in the town of Chernomorets, where it will remain until the end of December. Following its strong opening in the village of Marinka, where it attracted great interest among local residents, the exhibition has become a cultural message in its own right, connecting different communities through the power of art and the theme of marine environment conservation.

Hristo Anestev’s photographs reveal the richness, fragility and unique character of the sea – at times powerful and dynamic, at others calm and contemplative. Each image carries its own rhythm and atmosphere, inviting the viewer to discover a personal connection with nature and to reflect on the need to protect it. This emotional depth is what transforms the exhibition into a powerful tool for environmental education and public engagement.

Its relocation to Chernomorets is part of the initiatives through which Via Pontica Foundation marks its 10th anniversary – a decade dedicated to sustainable development, cultural projects and educational activities in the Black Sea region. Beyond its artistic focus, the initiative also includes work with children and young people. In Marinka, immediately after the opening, a creative workshop was held with students who had the opportunity to draw their “ideal sea” – clean, vibrant and full of colour. Their artworks are now displayed at the local school and are attracting the attention of visitors. Similar initiatives are planned in other coastal settlements as well.

“Reflections on the Sea” continues to bring together people of all ages and communities, united by the belief that the sea is not just part of the landscape, but a living organism that deserves our care. Through this project, the foundation aims to turn art into a catalyst for change – inspiring greater sensitivity towards nature, stronger responsibility and active efforts to protect the marine ecosystem.

The events are co-financed by the European Union – NextGenerationEU.

Video reportage can be seen here.

Extension of Pesticide Active Substance Approvals in the EU – A New Judicial Framework

Via Pontica News

In a recent ruling, the General Court of the European Union clarified that the temporary extension of approvals for active substances used in plant protection products must not be applied automatically or systematically. Instead, such extensions should remain exceptional and be justified on a case-by-case basis, grounded in a clear legal and scientific rationale.

Legal Context and Regulatory Background

Under Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, active substances used in pesticides are approved for a maximum period of ten years, with the possibility of renewal for a further period not exceeding fifteen years. When the approval period expires and the renewal procedure has not yet been concluded, the European Commission may grant a temporary extension. However, the Court emphasised that this mechanism is intended as an exceptional measure, not a routine administrative practice.

The ruling stems from several cases challenging the Commission’s decisions to prolong approvals for certain active substances whose risk assessment processes had not been completed within the prescribed timeframe. The Court examined whether such extensions respected the principles of EU law, particularly the precautionary principle and the obligation to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment.

Core Findings of the Court

The Court concluded that temporary extensions must not serve as a systematic tool to compensate for delays in the regulatory process. Instead, they must be:

  • Strictly limited in time and proportionate to the actual needs of the evaluation procedure.

  • Based on a specific and transparent justification for each individual substance.

  • Applied only after verifying whether delays in assessment were caused by the applicant, such as through incomplete data submission or failure to comply with regulatory requirements.

According to the Court, allowing automatic extensions undermines the purpose of EU pesticide legislation, which is to ensure that substances placed on the market meet the latest scientific standards for safety.

Implications for Environmental Governance

This ruling reinforces the principle that economic or administrative convenience cannot override environmental and public health considerations. By restricting the use of automatic extensions, the Court strengthens the role of scientific evidence and transparency in regulatory decision-making.

The decision signals a shift toward more rigorous governance, requiring institutions to justify the continued presence of chemical substances on the market with up-to-date risk assessments. This approach aligns with the broader objectives of sustainable agriculture, biodiversity protection, and chemical risk reduction under the EU Green Deal.

Relevance for Bulgaria and the Black Sea Region

For Bulgaria and the sensitive ecosystems of the Black Sea coast, this development carries particular importance. The continued use of pesticides with outdated or incomplete risk assessments poses measurable threats to aquatic ecosystems, groundwater resources, and local communities reliant on agriculture and fisheries.

It is therefore crucial that national authorities treat any request for extension as an exceptional measure, demanding:

  • Clear scientific justification for the extension

  • Defined time limits and conditions

  • Full transparency regarding the status of the assessment process

  • Accountability from applicants regarding delays

Civil society organisations, including environmental NGOs, play a vital role in monitoring these procedures and advocating for stricter oversight, especially where environmental vulnerability is high.

Conclusion

The General Court’s decision establishes a clearer and more precautionary framework for the management of pesticide approvals in the European Union. Temporary extensions must remain an exceptional solution, not a routine practice. This reinforces the primacy of environmental protection and public health over procedural convenience and ensures that the regulatory system remains aligned with current scientific knowledge and environmental standards.

For Bulgaria and the wider Black Sea region, this ruling presents an opportunity to strengthen national pesticide control systems and to promote safer, more sustainable agricultural practices through evidence-based governance and enhanced transparency.

Via Pontica Foundation joins SEAGROW to explore regenerative seaweed farming in the Black Sea

Via Pontica News

 

Via Pontica Foundation is proud to announce its participation in SEAGROW – Seaweed Ecosystem Aquaculture for GROWth and Sustainability, a forward-looking project funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).

SEAGROW unites research institutions, NGOs, and private partners from across Europe to demonstrate how Regenerative Ocean Farming (ROF) — large-scale cultivation of seaweed designed to restore ecosystems — can contribute to climate resilience, clean seas, and sustainable economic growth.

As the Black Sea representative, Via Pontica Foundation will lead the preparation of a regional feasibility study for a regenerative seaweed farming pilot. The study will analyse environmental and regulatory conditions, identify opportunities for sustainable aquaculture, and assess the potential for positive ecological and socio-economic impact in the Black Sea basin.

Via Pontica Foundation will:

  • Contribute environmental data and regional expertise to Work Package 2: Regenerative Ocean Farming;

  • Support Work Package 4: Business Case Development by analysing market drivers and regulatory barriers;

  • Engage stakeholders, policy actors, and local communities through Work Package 5: Communication and Dissemination, including the organisation of a stakeholder workshop in Bulgaria.

Through SEAGROW, the Foundation will strengthen cooperation among European partners — including Óir Na Farraige, Trinity College Dublin, Sea Going Green, and AquaBioTech Group — to connect science, innovation, and community action.

This collaboration marks an important step in extending regenerative seaweed cultivation from the Atlantic to the Black Sea, advancing a shared vision for a sustainable and resilient Blue Economy.

This project has received funding from the European Union under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).

 

The photo exhibition “Reflections on the Sea” came to life in the village of Marinka.

Via Pontica News

This year, the Via Pontica Foundation celebrates its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of active work dedicated to promoting environmental awareness, cultural heritage, and sustainable development along the Black Sea coast.

With the kind support of the Marinka Village Hall, on October 27, in front of its building, the photo exhibition “Reflections on the Sea” by renowned Burgas photographer Hristo Anestev was officially opened. The event was organized by the Via Pontica Foundation with the support of Community Centre “Marinka 2024” and is part of the foundation’s long-term initiative to raise public engagement in protecting the marine and coastal ecosystem.

The exhibition presents an impressive series of photographs taken along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, capturing the power, beauty, and fragility of the sea. Through Hristo Anestev’s lens, the sea comes to life as a symbol of human conscience – majestic yet vulnerable. Each photograph offers a poetic perspective on the shores, the waves, and the people for whom the sea is a way of life, a source of inspiration, and a shared responsibility.

Over the next two weeks, residents and visitors of Marinka will be able to enjoy the inspiring images displayed outdoors in front of the Village Hall – a symbolic invitation to reflect on our connection with nature and our duty to protect it.

“Through this exhibition, we want to inspire people to think about the beauty and fragility of the sea – it is not only a source of inspiration but also a living organism that needs our care,” shared the organizers.

The exhibition is part of the Via Pontica Foundation’s broader efforts to promote educational and cultural initiatives related to the blue economy and the sustainable development of the Black Sea region, fostering love and responsibility toward nature among young people through the power of art.

Following the official opening, a creative workshop was held with students from Hristo Botev Primary School in Marinka, led by Prof. Pepa Miteva. The workshop focused on marine ecosystem conservation and the role of art as a tool for environmental education. The young participants had the opportunity to paint the sea as they dream of seeing it – clean, calm, and full of life. Their artworks will be exhibited in the school building and will remain open to visitors over the coming weeks.

Video reportage from the event can be seen here.

The events are co-financed by the European Union – NextGenerationEU.

Ina Agafonova Represents the Via Pontica Foundation at the European Level within the EESC

Via Pontica News

The Via Pontica Foundation proudly announces that the Chair of its Board of Directors, Ina Agafonova, participated as the official representative of the organization in the meetings of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels.

This participation marks an important milestone in expanding the Foundation’s international presence and highlights its active role in the development of civil society, as well as in promoting Bulgaria’s environmental and social priorities within the European Union.

During the meetings held at the European Parliament and the EESC headquarters, key topics were discussed related to sustainable development, social innovation, and the role of non-governmental organizations in implementing the European Green Deal.

The Via Pontica Foundation’s participation through Ina Agafonova reaffirms its position as a leading environmental organization that unites experts and communities around the mission of protecting natural heritage and promoting green policies.

“It is an honor to represent the Via Pontica Foundation within the EESC. This participation allows us to bring our national priorities and best practices to the European stage and to contribute to establishing Bulgaria as an active participant in decision-making processes related to sustainable development,”
shared Ina Agafonova after the forum in Brussels.

By joining the EESC network, the Via Pontica Foundation strengthens its contribution to European policies focused on environmental protection, social engagement, and building a greener and more sustainable future for the next generations.

AlgaeRevive Project Presented at Burgas University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”

Via Pontica News

n inspiring meeting of knowledge, science, and sustainable development took place at Burgas State University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”, where the Via Pontica Foundation presented the project AlgaeRevive – “Harnessing the Power of Algae to Reduce Pollution and Foster Blue Growth”, co-financed under the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme.

The event brought together scientists, experts, and representatives of institutions from Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Turkey, and Georgia, who discussed the future of the blue economy and the role of innovation in the sustainable management of the Black Sea region.

During the meeting, Georgi Kostadinov, project expert, presented the consortium’s work and the progress achieved within AlgaeRevive – a project that aims to build an innovative ecosystem for the research, utilization, and industrial application of algae as a natural mechanism to reduce marine pollution and promote sustainable blue growth.

“The Black Sea is not only a natural resource but also a source of inspiration and opportunities for a new generation of innovators and scientists,” shared the Via Pontica Foundation team, expressing gratitude to the university for its excellent hospitality and to all international partners for their active support.

The Foundation continues to pursue its mission of building bridges between science, technology, and nature, promoting sustainable solutions for the future of the Black Sea.

Via Pontica Foundation Takes Part in the MoreAdaptBSB Knowledge Exchange Meeting in Constanța, Romania

Via Pontica News

Constanța, Romania – 21–23 October 2025

The Via Pontica Foundation participated in the Knowledge Exchange Group Meeting of the MoreAdaptBSB Project (BSB00479) – “Less Vulnerability, More Adaptability”, held from 21 to 23 October 2025 in Constanța, Romania. The event was hosted by Ovidius University of Constanța and brought together representatives from project partner organizations, research institutions, local authorities, and NGOs across the Black Sea Basin region.

The meeting, organized under the framework of the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme, aimed to strengthen cooperation and exchange expertise on sustainable solutions for climate change adaptation and biodiversity restoration in coastal and urban areas.

During the two-day sessions, participants discussed the progress of project activities, shared preliminary findings from the pilot sites, and explored the development of nature-based solutions (NbS) to enhance environmental resilience.

The Via Pontica Foundation was represented by Project Manager Georgi Kostadinov, who took part in thematic discussions alongside experts from Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine. The event also featured a field visit to the Constanța pilot area, where restoration priorities and the practical application of NbS were assessed together with local authorities and environmental specialists.

The meeting concluded with an open discussion summarizing key takeaways and outlining future collaboration among partners. The shared knowledge and expertise will play a crucial role in shaping upcoming project phases and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Black Sea Basin’s natural ecosystems.

Reviving the Black Sea: Via Pontica Foundation Leads Innovation in the AlgaeRevive Project

Via Pontica News

As Lead Partner of the AlgaeRevive Project, Via Pontica Foundation (VPF) continues to coordinate research and innovation efforts aimed at protecting the ecological balance of the Black Sea. Over recent months, the Foundation has achieved significant progress in several priority areas, including the development of digital tools for environmental monitoring and the promotion of international scientific cooperation across the Black Sea Basin.

One of the most notable developments is the Foundation’s decision to consolidate two planned equipment acquisitions into a single, high-precision Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). This advanced underwater system is designed to support both routine monitoring and pilot-scale interventions within the project framework. The decision reflects VPF’s commitment to technological efficiency and to the use of modern research infrastructure in marine conservation.(ROV) Remotely operated under water vehicle

Scientific partners from Burgas State University “Prof. Dr. Assen Zlatarov” and Odesa State Agrarian University are conducting experimental studies on the potential of rapidly growing micro algae to purify polluted waters while simultaneously capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Recent experiments conducted in Burgas Lake have shown measurable improvements in water quality, indicating that micro algae cultivation could be an effective and sustainable method for mitigating eutrophication and enhancing ecosystem resilience in the Black Sea region.

These findings underscore the importance of continued research into nature-based solutions for environmental restoration. Through the AlgaeRevive Project, Via Pontica Foundation and its partners are setting an important precedent for how applied science and cross-border collaboration can contribute to the long-term health of one of Europe’s most vulnerable marine ecosystems.