Blog
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Four Different States of the Black Sea Between 1960 and 1999
A recent study looks at the Black Sea not as a series of separate problems — overfishing here, pollution there — but as one system that has changed its state. Its conclusion is that over four decades the sea passed through four clearly distinct regimes, and that the transitions between them were abrupt rather than…
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Shaping the Future of Ocean and Water Research in Europe
The European Commission has launched two calls for evidence that will help shape the future Ocean and Water Research and Innovation Strategy, a major initiative expected to guide European research and investment priorities in the coming years. The strategy seeks to address growing environmental challenges affecting marine and freshwater ecosystems, including biodiversity loss, pollution, climate…
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Natura 2000 and Climate Change: Strengthening Resilience Through Adaptive Management
On 16–17 June 2026, the European Commission will host a dedicated event focused on the relationship between Natura 2000 protected areas and climate change. The initiative will bring together experts, conservation practitioners, researchers, and policymakers from across Europe to discuss practical approaches for strengthening the resilience of protected ecosystems in a changing climate. (European Commission)…
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How Digital Innovation Can Support Biodiversity Conservation
Digital technologies are becoming increasingly important tools in biodiversity conservation. From artificial intelligence and satellite monitoring to cloud-based data platforms and environmental sensors, new technologies are helping researchers, conservation organizations and public authorities better understand and protect natural ecosystems. Across Europe, growing investment in digital infrastructure and AI capabilities is creating new opportunities for environmental…
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The Ocean Begins at the Shore: Why Coastal Wetlands Matter for the Future of the Black Sea
On 8 June, the world celebrates World Oceans Day under the theme “REIMAGINE”. The campaign encourages us to rethink our relationship with the ocean and recognise our shared responsibility for protecting marine ecosystems. When we think about the ocean, we often imagine distant coastlines and vast open waters. In reality, ocean health begins much closer…
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Why Bulgaria’s National Nature Restoration Plan Matters for the Black Sea Region
Bulgaria is entering an important phase in the implementation of the European Union’s Nature Restoration Regulation. As part of this process, Member States are required to prepare National Nature Restoration Plans that outline how degraded ecosystems will be restored and protected over the coming decades. For Bulgaria, this creates an opportunity to address some of…
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Migratory Species and the Importance of Via Pontica for Black Sea Biodiversity
Migratory species play a critical role in maintaining ecosystem balance across continents. Every year, millions of birds travel along migration corridors connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. One of the most important of these routes is Via Pontica, the Black Sea migratory flyway passing through Bulgaria’s coastline and wetlands. Recent international biodiversity assessments continue to raise…
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World Oceans Day 2026 and the Importance of Protecting the Black Sea Ecosystem
World Oceans Day will be marked on 8 June 2026 under the global theme “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet.” The international campaign continues to focus attention on marine biodiversity, ecosystem protection, and the long-term sustainability of oceans and coastal regions worldwide. For the Protection of Biodiversity in Bulgaria Foundation, this topic remains…
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Coastal erosion and rising sea levels threaten Black Sea ecosystems
The Black Sea coastline is facing increasing pressure from coastal erosion and rising sea levels, driven by climate change and human activity. Recent observations across the region show that sections of the coast are retreating at a faster rate, putting both natural habitats and coastal communities at risk. In areas of Romania and Ukraine, researchers…
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Europe Marks Natura 2000 Week with Biodiversity Initiatives Across Protected Areas
From 16 to 24 May 2026, countries across Europe are marking Natura 2000 Week through environmental campaigns, citizen science initiatives, and biodiversity monitoring activities focused on protected ecosystems. The Natura 2000 network includes more than 27,000 protected sites across the European Union and remains one of Europe’s largest coordinated conservation efforts. These protected areas support…