Conservation and restoration of marine biodiversity and ecosystems and compensation regimes within the framework of sustainable fishing activities in the marine area of FLAG Shabla-Kavarna-Balchik

The project "Protection and restoration of marine biodiversity and ecosystems and compensation regimes within the framework of sustainable fishing activities in the marine area of FLAG Shabla-Kavarna-Balchik" will begin with a study of data on the current situation, followed by an on-site study for ghost fishing gear. "Ghost" means any discarded, lost or abandoned fishing gear at the sea. These facilities continue to capture animals and potentially kill aquatic life, suffocate habitats and act as a hazard to navigation. These are the main type of debris affecting the global aquatic environment and the common territorial waters of Bulgaria, as recognized by the EU Maritime Framework Directive. It is planned to conduct research in three main areas for the presence of ghost facilities. In areas designated for the residence of fishing vessels, close to aquaculture farms and in areas where intensive fishing activities take place. A special questionnaire will be developed to gather information from a wider group of stakeholders, to facilitate the analysis of existing data and to ensure that all positions are taken. The findings will be summarized in a report published online. A common strategy to address the effects of abandoned fishing gear will be developed to ensure the sustainable economic use of the natural heritage. A contract will be signed with an external contractor for the collection and cleaning of ghost facilities, which will be transported to a separation and disposal station in the region of Balchik. The clean-up will involve local fishermen and divers, for whom the conservation and restoration of marine biodiversity and the sustainable conduct of fishing activities are important. Fishermen and port agents will be trained, a large-scale public awareness campaign will be conducted to attract the attention and support of all stakeholders.

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