Research directions in line with the National Strategy
National Strategy for the Development of Research in the Republic of Bulgaria (2017–2030)
Agro-biological sciences comprise the largest number of infrastructures of regional importance and are among the research fields with the highest degree of decentralization. At the same time, research in agro-biological sciences has received the lowest level of funding over the past five years.
The contribution of scientific research to industry is closely linked to innovation and the development of new or improved technologies. Whether the relevant research is conducted in Bulgaria or abroad, the presence of highly qualified Bulgarian scientists with expertise in the respective scientific fields enables the rapid uptake of research results and their practical application in the country.
The vision of the strategy is to ensure a balance between: (1) targeted fundamental, pure fundamental, and applied research; (2) research across individual scientific fields; and (3) regional distribution of research activities. Within the framework of the strategy, priority support will be given to targeted fundamental research that can contribute to both application-oriented and pure fundamental research.
National Roadmap for Scientific Infrastructure – Ministry of Education and Science (MEC, 2020)
National Research and Innovation Infrastructure in Agriculture and Food (RINA).
Scientific complex for sustainable management of soil resources, efficient use of water resources, and assessment of environmental risks and threats. Sustainable and efficient management of soil and genetic resources, and enhancement of ecosystem services.
Enhancing the resilience of the agricultural sector and mitigating adverse environmental impacts through the development and implementation of new Bulgarian crop varieties and livestock breeds adapted to climate change.
CCI 2023BG06AFSP001 – Strategic Plan for the Development of Agriculture and Rural Areas in the Republic of Bulgaria (2023-2027).
The Common Agricultural Policy will promote sustainable agricultural practices aimed at addressing climate change and protecting the environment. It is expected to make a significant contribution to the protection of natural resources such as water, soil, and air, including by encouraging investments directed towards environmental components.
Directive 2000/60/EC establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy (Water Framework Directive) – Good-quality water in Europe.
It establishes rules to prevent the deterioration of the status of surface water bodies in the European Union (EU) and to achieve “good status” for Europe’s rivers, lakes, and groundwater by 2015.
Directive 2006/118/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006.
Technical Guidance on the Preparation of an Inventory of Emissions, Discharges and Losses of Priority and Priority Hazardous Substances.
Guidance Document No. 28; (2012); ISBN : 978-92-79-23823-9
Public consultation on the Soil Health Law (Soil Health Directive proposal) – 4 August 2022
The European Commission (EC) launched a public consultation on a proposal for a Soil Health Directive entitled “Soil health – protecting, sustainably managing and restoring soils in the EU,” according to the Commission’s website.
The Commission stresses that soils are of crucial importance for food production, nature, and the economy, and require the same level of protection as water, air, and the marine environment. The proposal for a Soil Health Law, announced in the EU Soil Strategy for 2030, aims to define criteria for healthy soils, establish monitoring frameworks, and set rules promoting sustainable use and restoration of soils.