The research laboratories of Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov University in Burgas and Trakya University in Edirne are renovated and equipped with cutting-edge devices. These are only part of the outcomes of the strategic project of the Bulgaria-Türkiye programme 2014-2020 “BLUE GROWTH COLLABs project”. The initiative is powered with more than EUR 3.3 million (European and national co-funding) by the cross-border cooperation programme. The results of the project were announced on a closing conference at Trakya University in Edirne.
Desktop analytical equipment, sampling devices and specialised software for analysis and modelling have been delivered in the laboratories. Additionally, there are 2 research vessels and 2 reserve boats for sample collection and exploration. The former operate in marine environment and the latter in river, lakes and wetlands.
Two research centres for Blue growth - one at "Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov" University in Burgas and another at Trakya University, provide scientific infrastructure for joint work among scientists, researchers, local and regional institutions to develop common approaches, methodologies, models and initiatives for the sustainable use of natural resources. They support the study and monitoring of the ecological status of local ecosystems, while students have the opportunity to participate in research tasks and projects.
The educational role of the two centres is complemented by information campaigns and engagement with local communities to foster environmentally responsible behaviour. The infrastructure and equipment provided for scientists and experts on both sides of the border enhance existing capacities for researching and monitoring. The project implementation helps to address the lack of satisfactory information on the ecological status of aquatic ecosystems in the region. Common methodologies and pilot studies of water ecosystems in the Burgas and Edirne regions have been developed and applied.
At the project's final meeting in Edirne, there have been greetings by representatives of the Managing and National Authority of the programme, the European Commission, "Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov" University - lead partner of the project, Trakya University-Edirne and the Edirne regional administration. A live broadcast from the research vessel demonstrated the marine research equipment and interacted with the audience, showcasing the practical outcomes of the investment.
“The BLUE GROWTH COLLABs flagship project successfully implemented under the EU Cohesion Policy programme Interreg Bulgaria – Türkiye and co-financed with EUR 2,8 M by the European Union budget, brought tangible results for protection and sustainable use of shared aquatic ecosystems”, said Margarita Grantcharska-De Munck from the European Commission. “But beyond science, this project has made a strong mark in education and capacity building: cultivating the next generation of ecologically minded citizens and professionals. This project is having not only local impact. It contributes to broader European Union Strategies such as the EU Green Deal, the EU Biodiversity Strategy and the Blue Economy Strategy”, Grantcharska added.
The two universities will forge ahead their intensive partnership with an international conference on 12-14 June in Burgas.
