The Via Pontica Foundation has started its work as the lead partner on the AlgaeRevive project “Harnessing the Power of Algae for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth,” co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin programme. The project will be implemented jointly with the “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” University in Bulgaria and partners from Georgia (Tsotne Mirtskhulava Water Management Institute of the Georgian Technical University), Ukraine (Odesa State Agrarian University), Greece (Greek Agricultural Organization “Dimitra”), and Romania (Ovidius University of Constanța).
The ultimate goal of the AlgaeRevive project is to create a sustainable and innovative ecosystem for research, innovation, and industrial utilization of algae in the Black Sea region. The project focuses on the use of algae to reduce marine pollution and explore their potential applications in industry.
The project involves the creation of the Black Sea Algae Knowledge Hub (Algae K-Hub), which will serve as a platform for research, knowledge exchange, and capacity building for partner institutions. Artificial intelligence will be utilized to monitor and forecast algae blooms in the Black Sea. In addition, pilot activities for industrial application will be conducted, exploring suitable cultivation sites, developing efficient production methods, and examining opportunities to use algae in food, energy, and bioplastics.
Total budget: 1.470.899,04 Euros
EU funding: 1.323.809,13 Euros
The project started in early September 2024 and will continue for 30 months until March 2027.
Events within the Project:
First Online Partner Meeting for the Project Kickoff
On October 3, the first online meeting of the project “Harnessing the Power of Algae for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth” – BSB00091 AlgaeRevive took place.
Ms. Ina Agafonova, Chair of the Via Pontica Foundation and project manager, opened the meeting and introduced all participants. She presented the foundation’s activities related to nature conservation and wetland protection, emphasizing the importance of these efforts for biodiversity.
Mr. Georgios Ntinas from the Greek organization “Dimitra” discussed sustainable agriculture and the use of renewable energy sources. Additionally, Mr. Givi Gavardashvili from the Water Management Institute shared the need for effective measures to control and prevent risks related to global warming and climate change in the Black Sea region.
Ms. Magdalena Moroșan from the Managing Authority informed the partners about upcoming trainings and required documents. She presented the new approach to the financial management of the project, emphasizing the importance of precise documentation and accountability, and explained the process of cost verification and control systems for the partners.
The participants agreed to combine a conference and project meeting in December. Future meetings and the coordination of actions for green space restoration, as well as the use of collaborative platforms, were also discussed.
Second Online Meeting of the Partners in the AlgaeRevive Project
On November 4, 2024, the second online meeting of the partners in the project Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth – AlgaeRevive was held. The project, funded by the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme, brings together research and public organizations from five countries to promote the sustainable use of Black Sea seaweeds while reducing pollution in the region.
Main topics discussed at the meeting:
- The creation of the Black Sea Seaweed Knowledge Center, which will serve as a platform for sharing scientific data and best practices among various organizations.
- Expanding the network of stakeholders, including universities, research institutes, NGOs, and local authorities.
- Progress on the purchase of specialized equipment for seaweed research in Ukraine and Greece.
Upcoming Scientific Conference in Burgas:
The upcoming conference, organized by University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” in Burgas, will bring together scientists and experts to discuss innovative methods for using seaweeds in pollution control.
Next Steps:
We will continue to expand our partner network and develop the Knowledge Center while organizing events to raise awareness and engage local communities.
Stay tuned to our website and social media for the latest news and upcoming events!
International Scientific Conference “BLACK SEA – SCIENTIFIC APPROACHES FOR ECOSYSTEM REMEDIATION AND INNOVATION IN THE BLUE ECONOMY”
Via Pontica Foundation is pleased to announce conduction of the scientific event in the framework of the project “Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth” (AlgaeRevive – BSB00091) within the framework of the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Program, co-funded by the European Union.
Project partner Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov University, Bulgaria will organize International Scientific Conference on topic «Black Sea – scientific approaches for ecosystem remediation and innovation in the Blue economy»
The International Scientific Conference will be held 16-18 December 2024 and targets state-of-the-art research and innovation in ecosystem remediation, blue economy and pollution reduction in water bodies (including but not limited to):
- SCIENTIFIC APPROACHES TO ECOSYSTEM REMEDIATION
- INNOVATION IN THE BLUE ECONOMY
- USING ALGAE TO REDUCE POLLUTION WATER BODIES
The event will be held in Burgas, Bulgaria on 16th and 18th of December, 2024
Conference working language – ENGLISH
DEADLINES:
Application form – 1.12.2024
Abstract for presentation – 8.12.2024 (Abstract submissions should include Authors, Title, Keywords, Concise description of the main results, Acknowledgements and possibly References)
registration link: https://forms.gle/kJown5u1gHvX9jkXA
THE INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IS HELD UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF Prof. HRISTO BOZOV, PhD, Rector of “Prof. Dr. Assen Zlatarov” University, Burgas, Bulgaria
Successful Training: A Step Forward Towards New Opportunities
Employees of the Via Pontica Foundation participated in a specialized training organized by the Managing Authority of the Program (Ministry of Development, Public Works, and Administration of Romania) in Varna. The training was part of a series of initiatives aimed at building the capacity of organizations involved in implementing projects under the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme.
The event covered a wide range of topics related to effective project management and ensuring transparency and accountability within the program. Key focuses of the training included:
- key provisions of financing contracts;
- working with the JEMS platform for project reporting and management;
- public procurement rules and their application in an international context;
- risk management and addressing challenges during project implementation.
Participants had the opportunity to explore real-life examples and case studies, enhancing their understanding of the complex processes of coordination and accountability. They exchanged experiences with representatives of other organizations, thus expanding their knowledge and establishing valuable professional connections.
Via Pontica Foundation expresses its gratitude to the Managing Authority for the high-quality training provided and for their efforts in preparing participants for the successful implementation of projects.
This participation marks an important step in strengthening our mission to protect the environment, promote sustainable development, and foster regional cooperation in the Black Sea Basin. With the knowledge and skills acquired, the foundation’s team will work even more effectively to achieve significant results and sustainable change.
International Conference “BLACK SEA – SCIENTIFIC APPROACHES TO ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION AND INNOVATIONS IN THE BLUE ECONOMY” Concludes Successfully
The three-day international conference, held on 2024, December 16 – 18 at the Avenue Hotel Conference Center in Burgas, brought together participants from Bulgaria, Greece, Ukraine, Romania, and Georgia. Organized by the University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov,” the event focused on scientific approaches to ecosystem restoration and fostering innovations in the blue economy.
The conference was officially opened by Mr. Mihail Nenov, Deputy Mayor of Burgas Municipality for Education, who highlighted the crucial role of international scientific cooperation in achieving sustainable development for the Black Sea region.
Ivelina Vasileva, Board Member of the EU Mission “Restoring our Oceans and Waters by 2030,” addressed the participants online, emphasizing the critical importance of science and innovation in safeguarding water resources.
Throughout the conference, scientific presentations were delivered, and dynamic discussions were held on a range of topics, including:
- Restoration of marine ecosystems
- Innovative methods for pollution reduction
- Sustainable approaches for advancing the blue economy
Academics, researchers, and practitioners from universities, scientific institutions, and organizations shared their insights and research, stressing the need for collective efforts to address environmental challenges facing the region.
The conference was a key component of the AlgaeRevive project – “Harnessing the Power of Algae for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth.” Co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin 2021-2027 Programme, the project focuses on developing innovative solutions for monitoring and utilizing algae to improve the ecological health of the Black Sea region.
The organizers express their heartfelt gratitude to all participants and partners for their active involvement and valuable contributions, which ensured the success of the conference and hold great promise for a lasting impact on both the ecological and economic development of the Black Sea.
Successful First In-Person Partner Meeting for the AlgaeRevive Project
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.
AlgaeRevive Project Consortium Gears Up for Key Milestones and Upcoming Conference
On April 10, 2025, the partners of the AlgaeRevive project came together for their seventh official meeting, held online. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the overall progress of the project and align on next steps, particularly as preparations intensify for the upcoming Scientific Conference and in-person Project Meeting, scheduled for May 29–31, 2025, in Constanta, Romania.
During the meeting, the team reviewed the status of project reporting and procurement, discussed financial matters, and emphasized the importance of continuing data collection and sharing through the project’s shared repository. Progress was also made in planning the development of the AI-based tool for algae monitoring, which remains one of the key innovations of the project.
Logistics for the Constanta event were also finalized, including accommodation options and the structure of the conference and partner meeting. The agenda will include a welcome dinner, working sessions, and a social program to explore the region and foster stronger collaboration among the partners.
The next in-person meeting of the consortium will take place during the conference on May 31, 2025. Until then, all partners are expected to continue working on their tasks and prepare their contributions for the event.
The AlgaeRevive project, funded under the Interreg Next Black Sea Basin Programme, continues to promote cross-border cooperation and innovative solutions for sustainable algae management in the region.
