“’Think globally - act locally’ is not just a slogan, but the reality in almost all countries around the world. Communities and you - environmental experts, are the drivers of these policies at the local level and it is important that we work together to achieve our ambitious goals to ensure a clean environment for generations to come.” This was stated by Deputy Minister of Environment and Water Reneta Koleva at the opening of the 59th Assembly of the Association of Municipal Environmental Experts in Bulgaria, which is taking place in Sofia.

She congratulated the Association on the occasion of its 30th anniversary and mentioned that it is formats like this, which bring together representatives of the government, municipalities, and the non-governmental sector, that find workable solutions and are oriented towards real action to achieve a better future for nature, people, and the economy. “The European Green Deal outlines the strategic directions and actions for a new growth policy for Europe towards transforming the EU into a resource efficient, competitive and zero-emission economy by 2050,” reminded Deputy Minister Koleva.

A team of MOEW experts presented three strategic documents outlining environmental policies and the pertinent responsibilities for municipalities. They briefed the forum participants on the main guidelines in the National Environmental Strategy and its five-year action plan, the Long-term Strategy for Climate Change Mitigation, and the National Air Pollution Control Program (2020-2030).

In recognition of the good cooperation between the MOEW and the Association, the President of its Board Asya Dobrudzhalieva awarded Deputy Minister Koleva with a certificate of appreciation for the long-standing partnership with the ministry in the conservation of Bulgarian nature and in support of the Association’s cause.