The EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC; MSFD ) provided a framework within which each Member States shall take the necessary measures to achieve or maintain a “good environmental status” in the marine environment by the year 2020.
In the context of European Cooperation, Germany supported the development of conceptual approaches and methods by providing advice and opportunities for knowledge sharing during the process of developing the MSFD programmes of measures. The AAP project aimed at facilitating the establishment by BSBD of national programmes of measures under Art. 13 MSFD in time for reporting to the EU Commission by end of March 2016. Together with Intersus, Fresh-Thoughts provided advisory assistance to the BSBD on developing concepts, procedures and methodologies, including approaches to regional coordination, based on German experiences as well as on EU requirements and guidance documents.
The following activities were planned:
- to develop a specific guidance document that will serve as a basis for the preparation of programmes of measures pursuant to Art. 13 MSFD in Bulgaria;
- to advise the Bulgarian administration on the implementation of programmes of measures through 2017;
- to organize various workshops and working groups; and
- to facilitate capacity building in Bulgaria through the exchange of knowledge between experts from Bulgaria and Germany, as well as Romania.