Bulgaria is taking another step towards better protection of marine nature by introducing practical guidelines for the conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea – such as the porpoise, the bottlenose dolphin, and the common dolphin. The initiative is part of the pan-European efforts to preserve marine ecosystems and the sustainable development of fisheries.

The conservation of cetaceans is part of the broader efforts to protect marine biodiversity. In addition to incidental catches, marine ecosystems are also affected by factors such as pollution, climate change and pressure on habitats. Therefore, institutions and the scientific community are working together to better monitor, to collect data, and to take effective measures.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food has developed specialized information materials. These include a guide and visual instructions that assist fishermen in the safe release of dolphins and other cetaceans accidentally caught in fishing gear. The initiative is part of the implementation of the European Marine Plan for the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems, which aims to combine the environmental, economic, and social aspects of fisheries.

Although aimed at the professional sector, these measures have direct relevance for the whole society. Cetaceans are a key indicator of the state of the marine environment, and their protection is linked to the maintenance of healthy and sustainable ecosystems. This in turn guarantees the long-term sustainability of fisheries and marine resources.

The new materials provide clear guidelines on how to respond to incidental catches of marine mammals, including first aid and safe release depending on the fishing gear used. Particular attention is also paid to the obligation to report such cases, which is important for data collection and a better understanding of the problem.

The information is to reach all fishermen along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast through the distribution of brochures and the placement of information posters in key locations - ports, boat docks, and administrative offices. This will encourage the implementation of good practices and will raise awareness in the sector.

With these actions, Bulgaria confirms its commitment to the protection of marine nature and a future in which economic activity and nature exist in balance.