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.

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.

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.

Today in Constanta, Romania, the international conference “From Algae to Action: Reviving Ecosystems for a Sustainable Tomorrow” kicks off. This event is part of the AlgaeRevive project, co-funded by the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme, and brings together experts, researchers, and practitioners from the Black Sea region and beyond to discuss the vital role of algae in reducing pollution and restoring ecosystems.

The conference officially started yesterday evening with registration and a welcome event at the Panoramic Hotel. Participants from different countries had the chance to meet, exchange ideas, and share their expectations for the sessions ahead. The atmosphere was friendly and inspiring, filled with curiosity and anticipation for the topics that will be explored in the coming days.

During the opening, the organizers highlighted the importance of working together and embracing innovation to tackle environmental challenges in the region. The opening remarks were delivered by Raluca Trandafir, Chairperson of the conference, and Zlatina Baleva, Project Manager of AlgaeRevive. They spoke about the enormous potential of algae as a natural solution to reduce pollution and promote sustainable development and blue growth in the Black Sea.

The first evening was also a great opportunity for participants to get to know one another and establish new contacts. It was a moment to reflect on the shared mission of protecting and restoring the ecosystems of the Black Sea.

Today, the program continues with plenary lectures and engaging presentations that will explore topics such as macroalgal diversity, the impact of chemical fertilizers on eutrophication, anthropogenic structures in the marine environment, and pollution sources.

Stay tuned for more inspiring news from the conference. We will continue to share highlights and key moments that show just how important collaboration is – and how much potential algae have to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

On March 24, 2025, the Economic and Social Council (ESC) of the Republic of Bulgaria adopted an important declaration unequivocally condemning violence against animals. This significant statement is the result of an initiative by the “Via Pontica” Foundation—an organization with a longstanding commitment to biodiversity conservation and the promotion of high ethical standards in the treatment of animals.

In its declaration, the ESC expresses deep concern and outrage over the increasing cases of animal cruelty, which not only violate the law but also undermine the moral foundations of society. The Council emphasizes that violence against animals is a troubling indicator of deeper social issues—lack of empathy, responsibility, and awareness.

The document makes a firm call to state institutions to take immediate and decisive action. The key proposals include:

• Strengthening criminal liability for perpetrators of animal abuse;

• Increasing penalties for particularly severe cases of cruelty;

• Introducing punishments for filming and distributing videos of animal violence;

• Strict enforcement of the existing provisions of the Penal Code.

The “Via Pontica” Foundation welcomes the adoption of this declaration as a crucial step toward a more humane and responsible society. The organization will continue to advocate for legislative and institutional measures to ensure better animal protection and to reinforce public intolerance toward all forms of cruelty.

The full text of the declaration can be read here:

Declaration_ESC_animal_abuse

See also the letter from the “Via Pontica” Foundation to the ESC Chairmanship Council, calling for urgent and effective actions to protect animals:

letter_PS_ESC_decl_20250323

From 20 to 30 March, the world will celebrate Pesticide Action Week, an international initiative organised by Générations Futures. The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness about the risks of synthetic pesticides and to promote environmentally friendly alternatives in agriculture, gardening, urban spaces and everyday life.

Why is it important to talk about pesticides?

Harmful to health – scientific studies have linked pesticides to various diseases, including endocrine disruption and neurological problems.
Dangerous to biodiversity – pesticides affect pollinators, aquatic organisms and soil microorganisms, which are vital to ecosystems.
Dependence on chemicals – instead of long-term solutions for sustainable agriculture, the use of pesticides often creates a “vicious cycle” in which pests develop resistance.

Alternatives to pesticides

This week we share an important document – ​​”Alternatives to pesticides”, prepared by Générations Futures, which presents innovative and effective solutions to reduce harmful chemicals.

Main topics in the guide:
Organic farming and integrated pest management
Ecological methods in gardening – composting, mulching, biological protection
Safe alternatives for the household

You can view the full document here: Alternatives to pesticides

How can we contribute?

Support organic farming and pesticide-free products
Use environmentally friendly methods in the garden and home
Share information on the harms of pesticides and sustainable alternatives

The Via Pontica Foundation supports the Week of Action against Pesticides and calls for more sustainable practices that protect our health and nature.

More information about the initiative: www.semaine-sans-pesticides.fr

Join us in this important cause!

On February 2, 2025, the Via Pontica Foundation will mark World Wetlands Day with a special exhibition titled “Blue Horizons: Inspirations from the Shore”. This exhibition is part of the Foundation’s initiative to raise awareness about the crucial role wetlands play in biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and ecological balance.

What to Expect?

Photographic Exhibition: The exhibition will showcase stunning photographs by photographers Hristo Anestev, Venelin Todorov, and Milush Kiryakov, reflecting the beauty and power of nature.

An Invitation to Reflect: The exhibition invites visitors to enjoy the artwork while considering the significance of wetlands and the importance of their preservation.

Location: In front of the Burgas Municipality building.

Why Do We Celebrate World Wetlands Day?

World Wetlands Day is celebrated on February 2 each year to honor the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. This day serves as a reminder of the critical role wetlands play in human health and the environment.

Theme for This Year’s Event:
“Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future”. Wetlands are vital for mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and safeguarding natural resources.

Bulgaria and the Ramsar Convention:
Bulgaria is a proud member of the Ramsar Convention, with 11 Ramsar Sites, including Atanasovsko Lake, Pomorie Lake, and Srebarna Lake.

Join us as we celebrate this important day and reflect on the vital importance of nature for our shared home!

The founder and chair of the Board of Directors of the “Via Pontica” Foundation, Ina Agafonova, won the online vote for the prestigious “Personality of the Year 2024” award. With 6,993 votes, accounting for 40.71% of the total, Agafonova received strong support from the readers of Flagman.bg.

The award recognizes her tireless work and dedication in building and developing the Vaya Ecopark. With great effort, love for nature, and innovation, Ina Agafonova created a true natural haven, which stands as an example of ecological sustainability in Bulgaria.

The Vaya Ecopark is a place that attracts both children and adults. Visitors can enjoy walks among the beautiful nature, observe various species of birds, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of one of the most significant ecological projects in the region. In addition to its aesthetic value, Agafonova is actively working on the restoration of wetlands in the Burgas region, which are among the largest in the country. She continues to seek new opportunities to improve the ecological situation and enrich the park with new initiatives.

The “Personality of the Year” award is a recognition of the efforts of individuals who, through their work and commitment, are changing the face of society and nature in Bulgaria. The online voting, organized between January 13 and 20, 2025, attracted more than 17,000 participants. According to the results of the online survey, Ina Agafonova firmly took first place, demonstrating strong support for her work in nature conservation and the development of Vaya Ecopark.

This recognition comes at a time when Ina Agafonova and her team’s efforts continue to inspire and serve as an example for other environmental initiatives in the country. Her contribution to the preservation of natural resources and sustainable development in the region is undeniable and proves that each person can make a big difference in improving the environment.

The results of the online voting will be combined with the evaluation of a competent jury, which will determine the final winner of the “Personality of the Year 2024” award. Certainly, this award is another recognition of Ina Agafonova’s dedication and hard work as she continues to develop Vaya Ecopark and make it more accessible and attractive to all.

This article discusses the critical role of urban green spaces in coastal regions for combating the impacts of climate change, aligning closely with the goals of the MoreAdaptBSB project. It emphasizes how nature-based solutions such as replanting native vegetation, restoring degraded wetlands, and integrating green infrastructure into urban planning can mitigate the risks of erosion, flooding, and rising sea levels. The article highlights successful case studies from Europe, demonstrating how innovative technologies like remote sensing and AI tools have been utilized to monitor and manage these spaces effectively. Additionally, it explores the importance of community engagement and cross-border collaboration in ensuring the long-term sustainability of these initiatives.

Full Article

Enhancing Coastal Resilience: The Role of Urban Green Spaces in Climate Adaptation

As coastal cities face increasing threats from climate change—ranging from rising sea levels to severe storms—urban green spaces are emerging as a vital tool for resilience. Coastal wetlands, urban parks, and green corridors provide natural defenses against environmental hazards while offering significant ecological, social, and economic benefits.

The Challenge of Coastal Vulnerability

The regions surrounding the Black Sea are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. Issues such as erosion, flooding, and habitat loss are compounded by rapid urbanization, which often reduces the natural capacity of ecosystems to absorb shocks. These challenges demand innovative, scalable, and nature-based solutions.

Green Spaces as Nature-Based Solutions

Urban green spaces act as buffers, absorbing excess rainwater during storms and reducing the urban heat island effect. In coastal areas, wetlands and mangroves play an essential role in stabilizing shorelines and providing critical habitats for biodiversity. Restoring these spaces can significantly reduce the physical and financial costs of climate-related disasters.

Technological Integration

Recent advancements in technology have revolutionized how we manage and monitor green spaces. Tools such as drones, remote sensors, and artificial intelligence enable real-time data collection, allowing for early detection of vulnerabilities. These   technologies not only enhance efficiency but also foster greater transparency and collaboration across borders.

The Role of Community Engagement

One of the most effective ways to ensure the success of green space initiatives is through community involvement. Educating local populations about the importance of these spaces and actively involving them in their management builds long-term stewardship. Programs like citizen science, where individuals contribute to monitoring biodiversity, can have a lasting impact on public awareness and action.

Cross-Border Collaboration

Projects like MoreAdaptBSB highlight the importance of transnational partnerships in addressing climate change. By sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise, countries in the Black Sea basin can collectively develop innovative solutions and ensure their effective implementation.

Conclusion

Urban green spaces are not just aesthetic additions to our cities—they are critical components of a sustainable and resilient future. Investing in their restoration and integration, especially in coastal areas, is essential for adapting to the realities of a changing climate. Collaborative efforts like MoreAdaptBSB serve as a model for how countries can work together to protect their shared environment while empowering local communities.

On December 17, the AlgaeRevive project co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin programme, marked a significant milestone with the first in-person meeting of its partners. The meeting, held in Burgas, Bulgaria, brought together representatives from Greece, Romania, Georgia, and Ukraine, offering an opportunity for direct collaboration and progress review.

The AlgaeRevive project, which focuses on creating a sustainable ecosystem for research and innovation in the Black Sea region, is dedicated to utilizing algae as a tool for reducing marine pollution and promoting the growth of the blue economy. The project’s ambition is to address pressing environmental challenges while fostering long-term economic growth through eco-friendly solutions.

The meeting covered a wide range of important topics, with partners discussing the progress made so far and outlining the next steps. One key area of focus was the preparation for upcoming pilot projects, which will play a pivotal role in demonstrating the potential of algae-based solutions for pollution reduction in the Black Sea. Partners also delved into financial matters, ensuring the project remains on track and properly resourced.

Effective communication is crucial for the success of the project, and strategies for promoting the AlgaeRevive initiative across various platforms were also discussed. Emphasis was placed on engaging the broader public and stakeholders through social media and other channels, ensuring the project’s impact extends beyond the scientific community.

Collaborative efforts were central to the meeting, with all partners contributing valuable insights and expertise. The spirit of teamwork and dedication to the project was evident throughout the discussions. As the project moves forward, the partners are committed to continued cooperation, ensuring that the AlgaeRevive initiative achieves its goals and makes a lasting impact on the ecological and economic development of the Black Sea region.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all partners for their active participation and continued commitment to the project. Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to build a healthier, more sustainable future for the Black Sea.