Greenpeace Activists Demand Creation of Marine Reserve in Black Sea

Environmental activists from Greenpeace took action in front of the Ministry of Environment and Water building, calling for the establishment of a marine reserve in the Black Sea’s Maslen Nos area. The reserve aims to protect the region’s biodiversity and address the neglect of institutions.

The proposed reserve is expected to have a positive impact on the environment, including the recovery of ecologically important populations such as the black scallop and various marine plants. Fish stocks are anticipated to increase up to four times, and the reserve will provide a safe haven for valuable species like the Black Sea dolphin. Additionally, the creation of the reserve will enable the removal of invasive species.

Greenpeace representatives submitted a petition to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, advocating for a network of strictly protected marine areas covering 10% of Bulgaria’s Black Sea water area. The petition has garnered support from 15,000 people.

In the coming weeks, Greenpeace – Bulgaria and scientists from the Institute of Oceanography of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences will present an official proposal for the creation of a marine reserve. Prior to the proposal, they will engage in discussions with representatives of fishing societies and associations. This initiative aligns with the European Union’s Biodiversity Strategy, which requires member countries to have 10% of their water areas designated as strictly protected.