European Commission invests over EUR 233 mln in strategic environment and climate projects in Bulgaria

The European Commission said in a press release that it is investing over EUR 233 million in twelve new Strategic Projects in Bulgaria and nine other countries under the LIFE programme to support the implementation of the EU's environmental and climate ambitions under the European Green Deal. The funding awarded to the projects will support Bulgaria, Czechia, Ireland, Spain, France, Italy, Lithuania, Austria, Poland and Finland in reaching their national environmental and climate targets as they ramp up their contributions to the EU's green transition.

In Bulgaria, the funded project is Strategic Project for the Implementation of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans for Transition into Climate Neutral and Resilient Society (LIFE-SIP CLIMA-SUMP). The project will implement SUMPs in six municipalities (Sofia, Burgas, Veliko Tarnovo, Montana, Ruse, and Stara Zagora) to help achieve zero-emissions mobility on the road towards climate-neutrality. These municipalities have joined forces to overcome administrative, organisational and financial challenges and establish a climate-neutral and resilient society.

The project covers 30% of Bulgaria's population, offering a strategic approach to ensure long-term sustainability. Actions include implementing priority measures, building municipal capacity, mobilising resources, coordinating and monitoring SUMP measures and fostering stakeholder involvement.