Under the Environment Programme (EP) 2021–2027, measures are being implemented to improve air quality through investment in urban greening.

These measures fall under the ‘Air’ priority and are aimed at reducing secondary resuspension and limiting concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM10) through the implementation of nature-based solutions. Support is provided to local authorities where the average daily and/or annual air quality standards for PM10 were exceeded during the period 2017–2021.

Between February 2025 and April 2026, 20 grant agreements were concluded under the programme. Under these contracts, the municipalities are implementing projects for green measures in urban areas with a total value of 44.68 million euro. To date, 4.46 million euro has been distributed under the programme, and the implementation of the measures on the ground is continuing.

Projects are being carried out by the municipalities of Plovdiv, Vidin, Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Ruse, Sofia Municipality, Nesebar, Kardzhali, Montana, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Pernik, Asenovgrad, Lovech, Vratsa, Shumen, Dimitrovgrad, Haskovo, Smolyan, Pazardzhik, and Veliko Tarnovo.

Secondary resuspension is one of the factors contributing to the recorded excessive concentrations of PM10 in ambient air. Consequently, investment in greening makes a significant contribution to improving air quality and the living environment in built-up areas.

The interventions under the six announced calls for proposals under the ‘Air’ priority are focused on improving ambient air quality through priority investments in plant species with the highest efficiency in capturing fine particulate matter and naturally purifying the air. It is expected that the implementation of the projects will contribute both to reducing air pollution and to creating a greener, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment.

The latest call for proposals for such green measures is for the Municipality of Pleven. On 3 August, the managing authority of the Environment Programme 2021-2027 announced the procedure for the direct award of grant funding No BG16FFPR002-5.011 “Green Measures in the Urban Environment (6)” under Priority 5 “Air”. Those wishing to submit project proposals can find further information here: https://www.eufunds.bg/bg/opos/node/21070