Strategic Action Plan 2009 for the Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation of the Black Sea.
Type of law
Agreement
Abstract
This Strategic Action Plan (SAP) establishes a regional policy framework for the environmental protection and rehabilitation of the Black Sea. The primary objective is to address four transboundary challenges: (i) eutrophication and nutrient enrichment; (ii) the decline of commercial marine living resources; (iii) chemical pollution; and (iv) the loss of biodiversity and habitats.
The instrument is structured around four corresponding Long-term Ecosystem Quality Objectives (EcoQOs) defining the desired ecological status for the basin: (i) preserve commercial marine living resources; (ii) conservation of Black Sea biodiversity and habitats; (iii) reduce eutrophication; and (iv) ensure good water quality for human health, recreational use and aquatic biota. To achieve these, the SAP mandates the application of three management pillars: the Ecosystem Approach, Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM), and Integrated River Basin Management. It sets specific, time-bound management targets for the reduction of land-based pollution, the restoration of self-sustaining fish stocks, and the protection of endangered species and critical habitats.
Significant focus is placed on the reduction of nutrient loads (nitrogen and phosphorus) from agricultural runoff and municipal wastewater. The SAP identifies geographic "Hot Spots" requiring priority investment for pollution control and promotes the adoption of Best Environmental Practices (BEP). Provisions include the enhancement of monitoring programs through harmonized indicators, the improvement of port reception facilities for ship-generated waste, and the expansion of the regional network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
Operational responsibility for coordinating the instrument is vested in the Black Sea Commission and its Permanent Secretariat. The text outlines requirements for national reporting, stakeholder involvement, and the mobilization of financial resources through national budgets and international assistance to support the rehabilitation of the marine ecosystem.
The instrument is structured around four corresponding Long-term Ecosystem Quality Objectives (EcoQOs) defining the desired ecological status for the basin: (i) preserve commercial marine living resources; (ii) conservation of Black Sea biodiversity and habitats; (iii) reduce eutrophication; and (iv) ensure good water quality for human health, recreational use and aquatic biota. To achieve these, the SAP mandates the application of three management pillars: the Ecosystem Approach, Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM), and Integrated River Basin Management. It sets specific, time-bound management targets for the reduction of land-based pollution, the restoration of self-sustaining fish stocks, and the protection of endangered species and critical habitats.
Significant focus is placed on the reduction of nutrient loads (nitrogen and phosphorus) from agricultural runoff and municipal wastewater. The SAP identifies geographic "Hot Spots" requiring priority investment for pollution control and promotes the adoption of Best Environmental Practices (BEP). Provisions include the enhancement of monitoring programs through harmonized indicators, the improvement of port reception facilities for ship-generated waste, and the expansion of the regional network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
Operational responsibility for coordinating the instrument is vested in the Black Sea Commission and its Permanent Secretariat. The text outlines requirements for national reporting, stakeholder involvement, and the mobilization of financial resources through national budgets and international assistance to support the rehabilitation of the marine ecosystem.
Attached files
Web site
Date of text
Entry into force notes
The document specifies that the SAP is a statement of high-level political commitment. It became effective upon signature by the Ministers or high-level officials of the six Contracting Parties on 17 April 2009.
Repealed
No
Source language
English
Legislation Amendment
No
Original title
Стратегически план за действие за опазване на околната среда и възстановяване на Черно море