LIFE for Lake Varna- Demonstration of a pilot green infrastructure as a win-win solution for biodiversity and development in Lake Varna

Narrative

The project "Demonstration of a pilot green infrastructure as a win-win solution for biodiversity and development in Lake Varna” aims to address the extensive loss of river connectivity and ecological degradation in the Danube River Basin. With over one million barriers on Europe's rivers and significant degradation of floodplain areas, the project aims to promote sustainable ecosystem-based management and restore the health of the Danube River and its associated ecosystems. The project will develop a comprehensive Restoration Action Plan, involving stakeholders and integrating citizen participation, to guide restoration efforts in the Danube River Basin. This plan will address the degradation of freshwater and transitional water ecosystems, improve ecological status and biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem connectivity. By implementing innovative nature-based solutions, the project aims to achieve multiple benefits, including enhanced free-flowing rivers and floodplains, reduced flood and drought risks, and improved sediment and biota continuity. The project will collaborate with policymakers, scientific advisory bodies, and local stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the Restoration Action Plan. It will develop monitoring schemes to assess the conservation status of bird and aquatic species and establish sustainable management measures for the project sites. Additionally, the project will engage local communities and raise awareness about the importance of ecosystem restoration for the Danube River Basin.

Financial data

Total Eligible Budget: €1,852,060, EU Contribution: €1,110,980, EU Funding Percentage: 60%

Recommendations

• Strengthen collaboration and coordination among stakeholders at different levels, including policymakers, scientists, and local communities, to ensure effective implementation of the Restoration Action Plan.

• Develop long-term monitoring and evaluation strategies to assess the impact of restoration actions on ecosystem health and biodiversity in the Danube River Basin.

• Promote knowledge exchange and capacity-building activities to enhance understanding and engagement in sustainable ecosystem-based management practices.

• Foster cross-border cooperation and information sharing to address transboundary challenges and ensure the holistic restoration of the Danube River Basin.

• Advocate for the integration of ecosystem restoration and conservation measures into relevant policies and regulations at the national and regional levels.

• Seek opportunities for additional funding and resources to support the long-term sustainability and replication of successful restoration initiatives in the Danube River Basin.