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National Implementation of Agenda 21

BULGARIA

COUNTRY PROFILE

IMPLEMENTATION OF AGENDA 21:
REVIEW OF PROGRESS MADE SINCE THE
UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON
ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT, 1992

Information Provided by the Government of Bulgaria to the
United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development
Fifth Session
7-25 April 1997
New York

United Nations Department for Policy Coordination and Sustainable Development
Division for Sustainable Development
The Information contained in this Country Profile is also available on the World Wide Web, as follows:
http://www.un.org/dpcsd/earthsummit

BULGARIA

This country profile has been provided by:

Name of Ministry/Office: Ministry of Environment and Waters

Date: 16.06.1997

Submitted by:

Mailing address: 67, W. Gladstone Str., 100 Sofia, Bulgaria

Telephone: (359 2) 814 269

Telefax: (359 2) 52 16 34

E-mail:

Note from the Secretariat: An effort has been made to present all country profiles within a common format, with an equal number of pages. However, where Governments have not provided information for the tables appended to Chapters 4 and 17, those tables have been omitted entirely in order to reduce the overall length of the profile and save paper. Consequently, there may be some minor inconsistencies among the formats of the different country profiles.

All statistics are rendered as provided by the respective Governments.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACRONYMS
OVERVIEW
FACT SHEET
AGENDA 21 CHAPTERS
2. International cooperation to accelerate sustainable development in developing countries and related domestic policies
3. Combating poverty
4. Changing consumption patterns
5. Demographic dynamics and sustainability
6. Protecting and promoting human health
7. Promoting sustainable human settlement development
8. Integrating environment and development in decision-making
9. Protection of the atmosphere
10. Integrated approach to the planning and management of land resources
11. Combating deforestation
12. Managing fragile ecosystems: combating desertification and drought
13. Managing fragile ecosystems: sustainable mountain development
14. Promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development
15. Conservation of biological diversity
16. Environmentally sound management of biotechnology
17. Protection of the oceans, all kinds of seas, including enclosed and semi-enclosed seas, and coastal areas and the protection, rational use and development of their living resources
18. Protection of the quality and supply of freshwater resources: application of integrated approaches to the development, management and use of water resources
19. Environmentally sound management of toxic chemicals, including prevention of illegal international traffic in toxic and dangerous products
20. Environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes, including prevention of illegal international traffic in hazardous wastes
21. Environmentally sound management of solid wastes and sewage-related issues
22. Safe and environmentally sound management of radioactive wastes
23-32. Major groups
33. Financial resources and mechanisms
34. Transfer of environmentally sound technology, cooperation and capacity-building
35. Science for sustainable development
36. Promoting education, public awareness and training
37. National mechanisms and international cooperation for capacity-building in developing countries
38. International institutional arrangements
39. International legal instruments and mechanisms
40. Information for decision-making

ACRONYMS

APELL Awareness and Preparedness for Emergencies at Local Level
CFC chlorofluorocarbon
CGIAR Consultative Group on International Agriculture Research
CILSS Permanent Inter-State Committee on Drought Control in the Sahel
EEZ exclusive economic zone
ECA Economic Commission for Africa
ECE Economic Commission for Europe
ECLAC Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
ELCI Environmental Liaison Centre International
EMINWA environmentally sound management of inland water
ESCAP Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
ESCWA Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
GATT General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
GAW Global Atmosphere Watch (WMO)
GEF Global Environment Facility
GEMS Global Environmental Monitoring System (UNEP)
GEMS/WATER Global Water Quality Monitoring Programme
GESAMP Joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Pollution
GIPME Global Investigation of Pollution in Marine Environment (UNESCO)
GIS Geographical Information System
GLOBE Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment
GOS Global Observing System (WMO/WWW)
GRID Global Resource Information Database
GSP generalized system of preferences
HIV human immunodeficiency virus
IAEA International Atomic Energy Agency
IAP-WASAD International Action Programme on Water and Sustainable Agricultural Development
IARC International Agency for Research on Cancer
IBSRAM International Board of Soil Resources and Management
ICCA International Council of Chemical Associations
ICES International Council for the Exploration of the Sea
ICPIC International Cleaner Production Information Clearing House
ICSC International Civil Service Commission
ICSU International Council of Scientific Unions
IEEA Integrated environmental and economic accounting
IFAD International Fund for Agricultural Development
IGADD Intergovernmental Authority for Drought and Development
IGBP International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (ICSU)
IGBP/START International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme/Global Change System for Analysis, Research and Training
ILO International Labour Organisation
IMF International Monetary Fund
IMO International Maritime Organization
INFOTERRA International Environment Information system (UNEP)
IOC Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission
IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
IPCS International Programme on Chemical Safety
IPM integrated pest management
IRPTC International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals
ITC International Tin Council
ITTO International Tropical Timber Organization
IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
MARPOL International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships
OECD Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
PGRFA plant genetic resources for agriculture
PIC prior informed consent procedure
SADCC South African Development Co-ordination Conference
SARD sustainable agriculture and rural development
UNCTAD United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
UNDP United Nations Development Programme
UNDRO Office of the United Nations Disaster Relief Coordinator
UNEP United Nations Environment Programme
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
UNFPA United Nations Population Fund
UNICEF United Nations Children's Fund
UNIDO United Nations Industrial Development Organization
UNU United Nations University
WCP World Climate Programme (WMO/UNEP/ICSU/UNESCO)
WFC World Food Council
WHO World Health Organization
WMO World Meteorological Organization
WWF World Wide Fund for Nature (also called World Wildlife Fund)
WWW World Weather Watch (WMO)

FACT SHEET

NAME OF COUNTRY: BULGARIA

1. Name of Key National Sustainable Development Coordination Mechanism(s)/Council(s).

Contact point (Name, Title, Office):

Telephone:

Fax:

e-mail:

Mailing address:

2. Membership/Composition/Chairperson:

2a. List of ministries and agencies involved:

2b. Names of para-statal bodies and institutions involved, as well as participating of academic and private sector bodies:

2c. Names of non-governmental organizations involved:

3. Mandate role of above mechanism/council:

4. If available, attach a diagram (organization chart) showing national coordination structure and linkages between ministries:

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 2: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION TO ACCELERATE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES AND RELATED DOMESTIC POLICIES (with special emphasis on TRADE)

NATIONAL PRIORITY: Full Membership in the European Union
STATUS REPORT: The establishment of an Europe Agreement between the European Union and its member states on the one hand and the Republic of Bulgaria on the other hand is providing for the appropriate framework for the gradual integration of Bulgaria into the Union.

Bulgaria's European Agreement sets out the objective to gradually establish a free trade area between the community and Bulgaria covering substantially all trade and to promote the expansion of trade and harmonious economic relations between the parties and to foster the dynamic economic development and prosperity of Bulgaria.

The conclusion of such an agreement involves the political will of the parties concerned and contributes to the fulfillment of the basic principles on which the European Union is founded. To this effect, the association agreement is a necessary prerequisite for an accession agreement and full membership.

The trade policy at the domestic level is focused on the establishment of market principles governing trade, and full compliance with the respective WTO commitments and obligations.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 3: COMBATING POVERTY

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

Focus of national strategy

No information.

Highlight activities aimed at the poor and linkages to the environment

No information.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

NB: Developed countries, where domestic poverty alleviation is not a major concern may wish to briefly describe their position regarding global poverty alleviation.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1985
1990
1992
Latest 1996
Unemployment (%)
1.7
16.4
12.5
Population living in absolute poverty
Public spending on social sector %*
Health
7.17*
Social Security and Care
0.90*
Culture and Art
1.40
Other data

* 1995- according to current prices

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 4: CHANGING CONSUMPTION PATTERNS

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

National policy objectives/focus

No information.

National targets

No information.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1985
1990
1992
Latest 1995
GDP per capita (current US$)
3,532
2,305
1,070
11293
Real GDP growth (%)
1.8
-17.5
-8.2
Annual energy consumption per capita (Kg. of oil equivalent per capita) 3,137
2,919
2,197
2910
Motor vehicles in use per 1000 inhabitants
134.3
160.7
187.22
196
Other data

1 1989.

2 1993.

3 preliminary data.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 5: DEMOGRAPHIC DYNAMICS AND SUSTAINABILITY

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: The Government believes that population growth rates are too low. The Government has undertaken measures to raise the rate of population growth.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1990
1993
Latest 1995
Population (Thousands) mid-year estimates
8,991
8,472
8,406
Annual rate of increase (1990-1993)*
-0.4
-2.9
-5.0
Surface area (Km2)**
110993.6
11993.6
110993.6
Population density (people/Km2) at the end of the year
78***
76
76
Other data

*) Natural increase per 1000 of the population

**) Total area - land and frontier river waters

***) Data are recalculated in accordance with data from the census by 4/12/1992.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 6: PROTECTING AND PROMOTING HUMAN HEALTH

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: A National Health Strategy has been adopted by the National Assembly. Bulgaria is a pilot country and is preparing the National Plan for Environmental health to be compiled later this year.

Efficient and sustainable solutions to the nation's health problems should rely on broad socio-economic, educational, technical and technological measures, as well as health care measures. These should bring about the required changes in lifestyle, the environment, the attitude to risk groups and to the diseases that are the most common causes of disability and death.

In conjunction with measures aimed at preventing disease, emphasis should be laid on health promotion, including health building and radical prevention.

Being the most promising development path for health care, health promotion is one of the pillars of modern health strategies.

I. Mitigating Environmental Risk factors

The Second Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health held in Helsinki from 20 to 22 June 1994, gave high priority to the development of National Environmental Health Action Plans (NEHAP) under the Environmental Health Action Plans for Europe (EHAPE). Bulgaria is a pilot country in preparing the NEHAP which is in final version after seminar, discussions and comments. The Bulgarian NEHAP gives a detailed analysis of the many factors contributing to it, sets out a range of specific actions across the spectrum of environmental health for remedying identified problems or for securing further improvements. The NEHAP is a large-scale, long-term project, covering all departments and is the basis for satisfying the health and ecological interests of the country.

Environment improvement programmes should be based on intersectoral cooperation and should consistently eliminate or reduce the impact of the most wide-spread risk factors: 1) Radiation impacts 2) Toxic factors 3) Noise 4) Foodstuffs 5) Safe working environment.

III. Activities Targeted at High Health Risk Groups

In conjuntion with the actions to mitigate the general impact of risk factors, specific actions must be formulated and pursued with respect to groups of the population exposed to high health risks: 1) Children 2) The Elderly 3) The Disabled 4) People suffering from Chronic Diseases and Invalidity.

The relatively narrow range of diseases that condition morbidity, mortality and invalidity allow selective prevention and therapy to be focused on their immediate effects upon the nation's health status: 1) cardio-vascular diseases 2) malignant neoplasms 3) Respiratory diseases 4) Trauma and intoxication 5) Tuberculosis 6) Neurological and sensory disorders 7) Dermatoses 8) Urogenital disease 9) Sexually transmitted diseases 10) Mental disorders 11) Communicable diseases.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Council of Ministers, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment and Waters, District and local divisions of the above ministries.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Multi-profile fields of environment and health actions call for multi-sectoral cooperation to ensure coordination and consistence in setting priorities and determining the necessary actions.

3. Major Groups: Medical doctors - 33.6-10,000 population; dentists - 6.8/population, pharmaceutists - 2.9/ 10000.

4. Finance: State budget - 98%, Health Protection Fund, National Environmental Protection Fund.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: PHARE, TEMPUS, INTERREG,WHO,WHO-Euro, World Bank.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 1994
Life expectancy at birth

Male

Female

68.7

74.1

68.4

74.4
71

(M+F)
Infant mortality (per 1000 live births)
22
15
16
Maternal mortality rate (per 100000 live births)
21
16
20.1
Access to safe drinking water (% of population)
98%
Access to sanitation services (% of population)
98%
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 7: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE HUMAN SETTLEMENT DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: The urban network in Bulgaria (5336 human settlements) has been formed for millenniums and bears the signs of ancient culture (Tracian and Slavonic dwellings, ancient Greek and Roman towns) and all the negative consequences of contemporary urbanisation.

All characteristic features of the Bulgarian towns during the last years, such as: demographic structure, social community, economic activity, environment, physical culture, housing problems, infrastructure, cultural heritage, tradition, intellectual level - indicate alarming signs of lagging behind European standards and of instability. The instability which resulted from the fast quantitative expansion during the period of industrialisation is complemented by the instability caused by the economic, social and political crisis during the last years. The issue of the quality of the urban living environment is becoming more and more important for public health care, as well as for the economy of resources.

Environmental surveys show that in 1989, more than 40% of the population lived in human settlements with bad air quality, seriously polluted rivers flowing through them, as well as the ground water; heavy metal contamination is characteristic for the areas around the motor ways in the towns and in the outskirts; noise pollution of the environment as a result of the transport and industrial sector is a big problem for the towns affecting about 40% of the urban population; the problem with waste disposal hasn't been solved yet; the state of the environment in the small towns and villages is good, apart from the low level of infrastructure; the low technological and energy efficiency in the production and household sectors make human settlements big electricity consumers; the construction of waste water treatment plants is very slow.

The environment is affected by agricultural activities and the national mountain and sea resorts are overpopulated. The villa zones in Bulgaria are a specific form of individual recreation, but their constant expansion and illegal construction create many problems. This tendency destroys the "green rings", which are the link between the natural and urban environment.

In comparing conditions in human settlements with previous years, there has been a decrease in environmental pollution caused by industry, due to reduced production and consumption. This tendency is not sustainable in character, because a restoration of economic activity is expected. The pollution from the transport sector is increasing due to increased motorisation, old aged vehicle fleet and the imperfections of the existing road network.

Regional environmental policy focuses on priority measures in specific regions or zones: highly urbanised, with high health risk, with exclusive significance for the country (the Bulgarian part of the Black sea coast, the Danube river basin, protected territories).

The establishment of National Fund "Regional Development" is envisaged. The National Fund for Environmental Protection supports as priority projects ones connected with environmental protection and especially those in the "hot spots".

Since 1992, the procedure for environmental impact assessment has been mandatory for urban infrastructure plans. Through this the Ministry of Environment exercises preventive control in the environmental protection of human settlements. Closer coordination between MEST and MoE is required, as well as a distribution of responsibilities and powers with the local governments - the municipalities. A number of regional, national and local environmental projects are under implementation, but still the coordination should be improved among the priority spheres: "structuring", "protection" and "rehabilitation" and among the different institutions.

Status Cont'd

In order to overcome the serious problems of the urban infrastructure caused by the continuous application of the approach for functional zoning, the following measures are to be undertaken:

1. In the new plans, the principle of space integration and merging of the functions at all levels of planning - to the agglomeration and to the town and the individual residential district, as well

2. It is necessary to create legislation to regulate the scope of the master urban plan, which should include the zone around the town and aim at ensuring well balanced sustainable development.

3. Individual and public green gardens are to be incorporated in a system for the whole town and in the outskirts.

4. National policy for the human settlements development should focus on the protection of the agricultural land as a non-renewable natural resource and as a base for sustainable development. Agricultural land should be protected at equal degree outside and inside the human settlements. Agricultural trends in the development of the small towns should be stimulated to the forming the agrotown style of living. Areas of agricultural land with no permit for construction should be preserved in the territories around the towns. These basic principles of the sustainable development of the urban structure should be regulated through legislation and urban planning, as well as through economic instruments.

5. The public territories in the human settlements and resorts are endangered. The preservation of municipal property in these territories should be regulated by the Law on Municipal Property and the Law on Territorial Development.

6. It is necessary to establish an interrelation between urban planning and land use in municipalities. The master plan of the municipality should be made a mandatory base for the detailed infrastructure plans for land use in the agricultural territories, forests, protected and urbanised territories.

7. The problem with waste disposal hasn't been solved yet at contemporary level and therefore disturbs the aesthetic properties of human settlements and is a serious cause of pollution. This issue has been actively addressed, and the adoption of a Law on waste is imminent. It is necessary to establish waste disposal areas at the regional level.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: The Ministry of the Environment, Regional Inspectorates for Environmental Protection, Ministry of Health Care, Ministry of Regional Development and Construction, municipalities, technical State Control on Construction, Commission on Land.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: 1) To seek the high efficiency of each investment of the limited resources and efforts taking into consideration the dynamic, technological, economic, political and cultural priorities of the country.

2) to provide sustainable development at disrupted natural equilibrium.

3. Major Groups: Ministry of Health Care, municipalities, Ministry of Regional Development and Construction.

4. Finance: National Environmental Protection Fund, municipal funds, state budget, companies, international organizations.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1990
1995
Urban population in % of total population
67.7
70.7
Annual rate of growth of urban population (%)
1.0
0.4
Largest city population (in % of total population)
14.6
15.8
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 8: INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT IN DECISION-MAKING

(See pages vii and viii at the beginning of the profile)

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: On 3 September 1996, the National Commission for Sustainable Development was established by Decree of the Council of Ministers. The Commission is chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Regional Development and Construction. The Minister of Environment is Vice-Chairman. Members of the Commission are all the stakeholders. Following programme implementation, the NCSD will lead in the development of a national strategy for sustainable development.

Bulgaria has strong will and commitment to implementing Rio's principles and Agenda 21. It is also going through a

major transition from a centrally planned to a market economy and is at a watershed in its development. Experience has thus demonstrated that a considerable share of the potential is not realized because information, policy measures, local expertise and public awareness are lacking in addition to the more specific challenges posed by the transition process. Nevertheless, despite the difficult conditions, Bulgaria has made significant progress since 1989 in improving the policy framework and strengthening its institutions for protecting the environment. The 1991 Environmental Protection law and its 1992 amendments provided a strong legislative framework for environmental policy, on the basis of which the Ministry of Environment prepared draft laws in a number of key areas, including air, water, nature conservation, natural resource management and biodiversity. Subsequently, the Environmental Strategy and its 1994 update were completed in co-operation with the World Bank and the US Government. The basis of the Strategy is the eco-efficiency approach which is concerned with changing the consumption/production models by means of minimisation of energy consumption and flows of pollutants and wastes per unit of economic output. In order to determine the appropriate behaviour for all stakeholders, various economic instruments were developed and implemented, such as taxes, fines, additional import duties, differentiated taxes, subsidies and softened loans. There formed the basic revenue of the National and many Municipal Environmental Protection Funds.

Throughout this process, the Ministry of Environment, including the Regional Environmental Inspectorates, has been able to enhance its institutional capacity. Public information and participation have constituted a major success with active involvement of environmental NGOs and the preparation of a legal framework to guarantee public access to information. The introduction of EIAs has been the most important step in the development of policy instruments. More than 1,000 projects went through the process in three years. Recent legislative amendments, however, could weaken EIAs. Amendments to the Environmental Protection Law passed in early l995 exempt projects of vital importance from the public participation requirements of the EIA process.

Although the Environmental strategy and update are based on extensive analysis, including consultation with experts in other ministries, the process for their development did not lead to a strong inter-ministerial commitment, nor to greater public awareness of the economic reforms needed for improved environmental management. The strategy and its 1994 update have been adopted by the Ministry of the Environment but not yet endorsed by the Government. The integration effort continues to be hampered by the vertical organisation of the central administration which is in part a legacy of central planning. The major sectoral ministries, such as those dealing with energy and industry, have paid little attention to environmental problems or goals. Budget cuts have led to reductions or elimination of environmental units in some ministries.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure (please also refer to the fact sheet): No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 9: PROTECTION OF THE ATMOSPHERE

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

The Montreal Protocol was ratified in 1990.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was signed in 1992 and ratified in 1995.

Additional comments relevant to this chapter There is no oil or natural gas in Bulgaria. There is enough brown coal with more than 3.5% sulphur content and up to 60% humidity and 70% ash residuals. That coal provides 45 to 53% of total energy production (38 billion kWh for 1994). In addition, because of the severe drought experienced over the last five years, the share of hydro energy in total production has fallen from between 6-8% to 1-2%. About 41% of the total population has been threatened by air and water pollution coming from the energy sector, industry and transportation. Fourteen hot spots were declared in the country with high levels of pollution harmful to human health.

In protecting the global atmosphere and air quality, Bulgaria has completed a National programme for Phasing out Ozone-depleting Substances and is utilising a GEF grant of 10.5 million US$ to implement it. The First National Report on Climate Change was completed in conjunction with the national Energy Strategy which was recently debated in the National Assembly. National programmes for reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and sulphur oxides are in development. In co-operation with the World Bank, Bulgaria is finalizing a Pollution Abatement Programme which includes implementation of several projects involving technological reconstruction and innovations aimed at phasing out leaded gasoline, heavy metal pollution from copper smelters and conversion of central heating from coal/oil to gas. Nevertheless, most of the high pollution, industrial facilities are still in operation. Little large-scale investment for pollution control equipment has been made to date. As a result, the pollution and resource intensity of the economy remains very high. The recent reduction of discharges of pollutants into the air and water was principally due to the decline of industrial and agricultural production (due to the recession that took place before 1993) rather than to more efficient production or cleaner industrial processes. Pollution loads may increase once economic growth resumes, unless environmental policy is strengthened. In fact the 1.4% growth of the GNP registered in 1994 was equal to a total of 300,000 tons more of emissions compared to 1993.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Council of Ministers, Ministry of Environment and Waters, Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Transport, Committee of Energy, District of local divisions of the above Ministries.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: Scientific, business-industry, transport, energy sector, municipalities, agriculture.

4. Finance: State budget, National Environmental Protection Fund, Municipal Environmental Protection Funds, Environmental Trust Fund and external financing.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (1979), Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992), Vienna Convention for Ozone Layer Protection (1985), Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents 91992), Agreements with Romania, Germany, USA, Programmes for Air Purity Protection.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 1995
CO2 emissions (eq. million tons)
no data
76.0
64.0*
SOx "
2.050
2.020
1.497
NOx "
no data
0.376
0.266
CH4 "
no data
0.757
0.511
Consumption of ozone depleting substances (Tons)
no data
2463
887
Expenditure on air pollution abatement in US$ equivalents (million)
35.3
62.5
1624.7**

(1994)
Other data * Forecast emissions (baseline scenario)

** Expenditure on protection and restoration of the environment by use - air (min.iv.)

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 10: INTEGRATED APPROACH TO THE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT OF LAND RESOURCES

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: As a result of the nature of territorial planning in the past, the main industrial activities and enterprises were concentrated in plains and around large cities which has caused a loss of arable land amounting to 87,000 ha spoiled by coal and ore mining; another 36,000 ha were strongly polluted by heavy metals from industry and uranium mining.

The planning of land resources and human settlements are the core issues of the National Strategy for Territorial Development which was developed with special emphasis on transboundary infrastructural communications. The recently adopted Land Protection Act provides the framework for the sustainable use of land resources, especially of arable land.

I. Total territory of the Republic of Bulgaria 11001147.3ha
1. Agricultural land, including 6278631.5ha

a) cultivated land 4693465.7ha
b) uncultivated land 1585165.8ha
c) contaminated land
active erosion 85000ha
polluted with heavy metals 87000ha
salt-affected soil 30000ha
acidified soil 460000ha
2. Forests 3810709.4ha
3. human settlements 413940.2ha

II. Non-renewable natural resources/mineral resources/till 01.01.96

contaminated terrain Technological waste thousands of dka millions of tons
Coal mining 199 3229.8
Ore output 49.9 1101.5
Non-metalliferous metals 22.4 42.6
Rocky 1.7 0.5

Total 273 4374.4

II. Uranium extraction/liquidated/
Contaminated and polluted areas: 17.5 thousands dka
Up to now - re-cultivated totally 2.809 thousands dka /16/
Technological waste from the uranium extraction 32.3 mln.tons
Out of which used are 0.336 mln. tons /1.1%/

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: The competent bodies for the protection and use of the non-renewable natural resources are: the sectoral ministries (Ministry of energy and Energy resources, Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Regional Development and Construction), the Ministry of Environment and the Committee on Geology and Mineral resources. At a lower level the competencies of the municipalities are only with respect to the construction materials.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: The leading institutes (scientific and engineering) in the country are "Miniproject", "Rudmetalurgproject", the Institute of Non-metalliferous minerals and the Institute for Construction Materials.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: The environmental projects in the mining sector are financed by the mining companies, National Environmental Fund and the PHARE Programme.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 11: COMBATING DEFORESTATION

NATIONAL PRIORITY: Sustainable management and use of resources; Restoration of habitats; Support of international initiatives; Legislation improvement.
STATUS REPORT: The surface of Bulgaria is 110 993 km2. All forests and other lands related to the implementation of forestry activities are included in the national forest fund whose surface amounts to 38 763 km2 34.9% of the country's territory. Of this surface, 33 569 km2 are covered with forests (30.2 % of the national territory), 1 214 km2 are lands intended for afforestation, 2 912 km2 are non-productive lands (roads, rocks, rivers, nurseries, etc.) and 1 068 km2 are forest pastures. As compared to 1965 the surface of the wooded area has increased 6.9%.

The standing volume of the forests is 467 mil. m3, the average volume per ha - 140 m3, the total growth is 12.8 mil. m3, the average growth per ha - 3.9 m3 and the average age - 43 years. For the last 35 years the standing volume has increased by 87%, the average growth per ha - by 84.5 %, the total growth by 109%, and the average age - by 6 years.

Depending on their priority social purpose, forests in Bulgaria fall into two functional groups:

- forests for commercial purpose 25385km2

- forests for special purpose 13377 km2

The forests for commercial purpose are managed for the production of timber of certain qualities, while keeping in mind the principle of continued use.

The forest for special purpose are managed for their protective, conservation, water-protecting and other ecological functions. The use of timber and other products is either restricted or forbidden. Depending on their specific functions, these forests are divided into:

1. Protective forests - 5 503 km2

2. Recreation forests - 2 379 km2

3. Protected natural areas - 3 206 km2

4. Other (seed prod. areas, dendraria, nature monuments, etc) - 2 289 km2

The relative share of the forests for special purpose has increased from 10.2% in 1960 to 34.5 % of the total forest area in 1995.

A large part of the wooded mountains with primary forests are protected as national parks (12) and natural reserves (90), accounting for 3.85 % of the national territory and 8.3 % of the wooded area.

For the last 40 years, 9760 km2 forests have been planted mainly along the lines of implementation of erosion control projects and reconstruction of forests of low efficiency.

Five management groups of forests are identified according to the composition, origin, status and management objectives:
1. Coniferous forests - 11 769 km2 - 41.3% of the volume
2. High broadleaves - 6 498 km2 - 28.1 % of the volume
3. Reconstruction forests - 6 007 km2 - 6.0% of the volume
4. Coppice with standards - 8 217 km2 - 23.2 % of the volume
5. Low coppice forest - 1 077 km2 - 1.4% of the volume

The activities that are carried out in the forests and lands within the forest fund are prescribed by Forest Management Plans (10 years validity). They are developed for the main administrative units - the 173 Local Forestry Departments.

Sustainable management and conservation of forests are the issue of the National Strategy of Forestry and the National Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Committee of Forests at the Council of Ministers, Ministry of Environment.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues:
2 400 specialists with higher education
1 200 specialists with specialized secondary education and
1 900 people - permanent staff working in the sphere of forestry

Further improvement of public participation in decision-making processes.

3. Major Groups: Scientists, Local authorities, Activists from the sphere of Tourism, Non-governmental organizations, etc.

4. Finance: "Forestry cultivation procedures and construction of forest roads" National Fund; National Environmental Protection Fund; State Budget; International Projects.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: WWF (World Wildlife Fund), GEF (Global Environmental Facilities), Multi-country PHARE Progamme - MERA Project, BSBCP for Co-operation in Forestry; US AID (Agency for International Development).

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1985
1990
Latest 1995
Forest Area (Km2)
36,670
38 710
38 762
Protected forest area
1,241
1 642
3 206
Roundwood production (solid volume of roundwood without bark in mill m3)
4.6
3.9
3.9
Deforestation rate (Km2/annum)
-
-
-
Reforestation rate (Km2/annum)
323
268
95
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 12: MANAGING FRAGILE ECOSYSTEMS: COMBATING DESERTIFICATION AND DROUGHT

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

International Convention to Combat Desertification in Countries Experiencing Drought and/or Desertification

Particularly in Africa has not been signed.

Additional comments relevant to this chapter

No desertification processes have been observed in Bulgaria.

Degradation processes are observed in the low-mountain areas of South Bulgaria and along the southern slopes of the mountains. This is the result of deforestation activities carried out in the last, and at the beginning of this century, as well as the progress of intensive erosion processes. 8 020 km2 of agricultural lands have been strongly and very strongly affected by erosion.

For the last 45 years, 9 760 km2 of forest species have been planted, 6 800 km2 of which were for erosion control projects. In the last 7 years the number of erosion control activities has significantly decreased due to financial difficulties.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, Committee of Forests at the Council of Ministers, Ministry of Environment.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: "Preservation and improvement of agricultural lands' productivity" National Fund; "Forestry cultivation procedures and construction of forest roads" National Fund; National Environmental Protection Fund; State Budget.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 199_
Land affected by desertification (Km2)
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 13: MANAGING FRAGILE ECOSYSTEMS: SUSTAINABLE MOUNTAIN DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Mountain and semi-mountain areas (up to 2,925 m) comprise 46% of the national territory; 34% of the Bulgarian population lives in 1,207 communities in those areas.

The Government pays special attention to these regions and provides subsidies and business opportunities for ensuring the quality of life of their inhabitants. In 1995, a special Fund for Environmental Projects in Mountain Regions provided about BGL 47 million in grants and interest-free loans for combating deforestation and erosion, water supply and sanitation, specific economic activities, ecotourism and agriculture. The main revenues of the Fund come from taxes on motor fuels. In 1996, this Fund was merged with the National Environmental Protection Fund.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: The Ministry of Environment and Water, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works and municipalities.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: The forestry sector in the mountains is well provided with personnel, but in the other sectors there is a lack of personnel.

3. Major Groups: Ministry of Environment and Water, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, municipalities and NGOs.

4. Finance: National and municipal budgets, National Environmental Protection Fund and grants.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: Bilateral cooperation on protected areas with Switzerland, USA and GEF.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 14: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL PRIORITY: Encouraging sustainable agriculture and development of rural areas.
STATUS REPORT: The government has established two specialized funds:

1. Fund "Agriculture" - for encouraging and supporting agricultural production.

2. National Fund "Protection and Improvement of the productive qualities of agricultural lands", which has been established with the municipalities. The resources from the funds are to be used for the construction of meliorative and anti-erosion sites, cultivation of new lands, re-cultivation of disturbed terrain, improvement of the productive qualities of lands, organization and structuring of the infrastructure of agricultural territories, assessment of the quality and categorization of lands, monitoring and control of the status of land resources and other activities connected with land protection.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Collegium, whose members are the Deputy Ministers, the Heads of Departments, the Chairman of the Agricultural Academy and the Heads of the organizations and services with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Agrarian Reform.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: There are no good training programs, methods, or teachers.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: There is no international cooperation with respect to sustainable agriculture and the development of rural regions.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1985
1990
Latest 1996
Agricultural land (Km2)
61,690
61,590
61,640
Agricultural land as % of total land area
55.6
55.5
56%
Agricultural land per capita
6,885
6,850
0.74
1989/90
1992/93
Latest 199_
Consumption of fertilizers per Km2 of agricultural land as of 1990 kg/1000 dka
13,101
4,663
1990r
1994r
1995r
Total
16147
3886
3797
Including
nitrogen
11203
3503
3554
phosphorous
2855
318
232
potassium
2089
65
11

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 15: CONSERVATION OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

NATIONAL PRIORITY: Priorities for immediate action and support, according the National Biological Diversity Strategy (1994).

1. Strengthening the Scientific Basis for Conservation

2. Legislative Initiatives

3. Expanding and Strengthening the Protected Areas Network

4. Environmental Education and Cooperative Extension

5. Developing and Implementing an Ecotourism Policy

6. Stimulating Conservation in the Black Sea Basin

7. Stimulating Conservation in the Balkan Peninsula

STATUS REPORT:

The Convention on Biological Diversity was ratified in 1996.

A National Strategy for the Conservation of Biodiversity was elaborated in 1992-94. EIA procedures have been introduced since 1991 with the new Environmental Law including biodiversity issues. The Convention was signed in Rio Summit in 1992 and ratified on 29 February 1996. The report will be submitted in 1998.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora was ratified in 1991.

The Ministry of Environment is the national body responsible for the implementation of the convention. The Scientific and Management Authority was established in 1991. The latest report was submitted in 1995.

The second european regional CITES meeting of management, scientific and other authorities involved in CITES plants issues was held in Sofia, Bulgaria, 14-16 April 1997.

Additional comments relevant to this chapter

The Ministry of Environment hosted a Regional Workshop on the Practical Implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries, from 25 to 27 June 1995, Lessidren, 22 countries participated.

Major steps towards the protection of the rich biodiversity in Bulgaria has been undertaken with the financial support of US AID, Swiss Government and Ministry of Environment and Public Affairs of Monaco.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Ministry of Environment.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Lack of Personnel.

3. Major Groups: Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Ministry of Regional Development and Urban Planning, Municipalities, NGOs.

4. Finance: National budget, National Environmental Protection Fund, Grants.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: Bilateral - Biodiversity conservation projects with Switzerland, Monaco, UK, France.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1992
Latest 199_
Protected area as % of total land area
1990
Latest 199_
Number of threatened species
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 16: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: No information.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 17: PROTECTION OF THE OCEANS, ALL KINDS OF SEAS, INCLUDING ENCLOSED AND SEMI-ENCLOSED SEAS, AND COASTAL AREAS AND THE PROTECTION, RATIONAL USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR LIVING RESOURCES

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea was ratified in 1996.

See also the attached tables on the next pages.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Council of Ministers, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Regional Development and Construction, Ministry of Health, District and local division of the above ministries.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Creation of a new specialized Integration Coastal and Administration. Improvement of public participation in decision-making.

3. Major Groups: Scientific, business, industry, transport, fisheries, tourism.

4. Finance: State budget, National Environmental Protection Fund, Municipal Environmental Protection Funds, Environmental Trust Fund.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: Convention of the Protection of the Black Sea Against Polluting, Commission of the Convention, Black Sea Environmental Programme.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 1995
Catches of marine species (metric tons)
22000
17000
4000(1996)
Population in coastal areas
770000
Population served by waste water treatment (% of country's

total population)

35.4
Discharges of oil into coastal waters (metric tons)
Releases of phosphate into coastal waters (metric tons)
1800.17
1351.75
Releases of nitrate into coastal waters (metric tons)
4386.39
3882.40
Other data

Chapter 17 (Oceans) Continued:

Check the boxes in the column below left: Check the boxes in the column below right:
For level of importance use: For level of implementation use:
*** = very important *** = fully covered
** = important ** = well covered- gaps being addressed
* = not important * = poorly covered
N = not relevant O = not covered; N = not relevant

TABLE I. THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN CONSIDERED BY THE APPROPRIATE COORDINATING MECHANISM FOR INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF COASTAL AND MARINE AREAS AND THEIR RESOURCES.

LEVEL OF
IMPORTANCE
ACTIVITY AS DESCRIBED IN AGENDA 21
LEVEL OF
IMPLEMENTATION
***
a. Preparation and implementation of land and water use and siting policies.
**
**
b. Implementation of integrated coastal and marine management and sustainable development plans and programmes at appropriate levels.
*
***
c. Preparation of coastal profiles identifying critical areas including eroded zones, physical processes, development patterns, user conflicts and specific priorities for management.
*
***
d. Prior environmental impact assessment, systematic observation and follow-up of major projects, including systematic incorporation of results in decision-making.
***
***
e. Contingency plans for human induced and natural disasters.
**
***
f. Improvement of coastal human settlements, especially in housing, drinking water and treatment and disposal of sewage, solid wastes and industrial effluents.
**
**
g. Periodic assessment of the impacts of external factors and phenomena to ensure that the objectives of integrated management and sustainable development of coastal areas and marine environment are met.
0
**
h. Conservation and restoration of altered critical habitats.
**
**
I. Integration of sectoral programmes on sustainable development for settlements, agriculture, tourism, fishing, ports and industries affecting the coastal areas.
*
**
J. Infrastructure adaptation and alternative employment.
*
**
K. Human resource development and training.
**
**
L. Public education, awareness and information programmes.
**
***
M. Promoting environmentally sound technology and sustainable practices.
**
***
N. Development and simultaneous implementation of environmental quality criteria.
**

TABLE II. TECHNOLOGY (MARINE ENVIRONMENT)

LEVEL OF
IMPORTANCE
ACTIVITY AS DESCRIBED IN AGENDA 21
LEVEL OF
IMPLEMENTATION
**
A. Apply preventive, precautionary and anticipatory approaches so as to avoid degradation of the marine environment, as well as to reduce the risk of long-term or irreversible adverse effects upon it.
**
***
B. Ensure prior assessment of activities that may have significant adverse impacts upon the marine environment.
***
**
C. Integrate protection of the marine environment into relevant general environmental, social and economic development policies.
**
**
D. Develop economic incentives, where appropriate, to apply clean technologies and other means consistent with the internalization of environmental costs, such as the polluter pays principle, so as to avoid degradation of the marine environment.
*
**
E. Improve the living standards of coastal populations, particularly in developing countries, so as to contribute to reducing the degradation of the coastal and marine environment.
**
***
F. Effective monitoring and surveillance within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of fish harvesting and transportation of toxic and other hazardous materials.
*

TABLE III. SEWAGE RELATED ISSUES

LEVEL OF
IMPORTANCE
ACTIVITY AS DESCRIBED IN AGENDA 21
LEVEL OF
IMPLEMENTATION
***
A. Sewage related problems are considered when formulating or reviewing coastal development plans, including human development plans.
***
***
B. Sewage treatment facilities are built in accordance with national policies.
**
***
C. Coastal outfalls are located so as to maintain acceptable level of environmental quality and to avoid exposing shell fisheries, water intakes and bathing areas to pathogens.
***
***
D. The Government promotes primary treatment of municipal sewage discharged to rivers, estuaries and the sea, or other solutions appropriate to specific sites.
**
***
E. The Government supports the establishment and improvement of local, national, subregional and regional, as necessary, regulatory and monitoring programmes to control effluent discharge. Minimum sewage effluent guidelines and water quality criteria are in use.
**

TABLE IV. OTHER SOURCES OF MARINE POLLUTION, THE GOVERNMENT HAS:

LEVEL OF
IMPORTANCE
ACTIVITY AS DESCRIBED IN AGENDA 21
LEVEL OF
IMPLEMENTATION
**
A. Established or improved upon, as necessary, regulatory and monitoring programmes to control emissions, including recycling technologies.
*
***
B. Promoted risk and environmental impact assessments to help ensure an acceptable level of environmental quality.
***
**
C. Promoted assessment and cooperation at the regional level, where appropriate, with respect to the input of point source pollutants from the marine environment.
**
**
D. Taken steps to eliminate emissions or discharges of organohalogen compounds from the marine environment.
*
**
E. Taken steps to eliminate/reduce emissions or discharges or other synthetic organic compounds from the marine environment.
*
***
F. Promoted controls over anthropogenic inputs of nitrogen and phosphorous that enter coastal waters where such problems as eutrophication threaten the marine environment or its resources.
*
**
G. Taken steps to develop and implement environmentally sound land-use techniques and practices to reduce run-off to water courses and estuaries which would cause pollution or degradation of the marine environment.
**
***
H. Promoted the use of environmentally less harmful pesticides and fertilizers and alternative methods for pest control, and considered the prohibition of those found to be environmentally unsound.
**
**
I. Adopted new initiatives at national, subregional and regional levels for controlling the input of non-point source pollutants which require broad changes in sewage and waste management, agricultural practices, mining, construction and transportation.
*
***
J. Taken steps to control and prevent coastal erosion and siltation due to anthropogenic factors related to, inter alia, land-use and construction techniques and practices.
**

TABLE V. ADDRESSING CRITICAL UNCERTAINTIES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE. IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THIS PROGRAMME AREA THE GOVERNMENT IS CARRYING OUT THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES:

LEVEL OF
IMPORTANCE
ACTIVITY AS DESCRIBED IN AGENDA 21
LEVEL OF
IMPLEMENTATION
**
A. Coordinating national and regional observation programmes for coastal and near-shore phenomena related to climate change and for research parameters essential for marine and coastal management in all regions.
**
**
B. Providing improved forecasts of marine conditions for the safety of inhabitants of coastal areas and for the efficiency of marine operations.
***
N
C. Adopting special measures to cope with and adapt to potential climate change and sea-level rise.
**
D. Participating in coastal vulnerability assessment, modelling and response strategies particularly for priority areas, such as small islands and low-lying and critical coastal areas.
**
**
E. Identifying ongoing and planned programmes of systematic observation of the marine environment, with a view to integrating activities and establishing priorities to address critical uncertainties for oceans and all seas.
***
N
F. Research to determine the marine biological effects of increased levels of ultraviolet rays due to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.
N
G. Carrying out analysis, assessments and systematic observation of the role of oceans as a carbon sink.

TABLE VI. RATING OF ACTIVITIES IN THE AIR AND MARITIME TRANSPORT SECTORS IN THE SMALL ISLANDS DEVELOPING STATES (SIDS)

AIR TRANSPORT
RATING
MARITIME TRANSPORT
RATING
1. Frequency (external flights) 1. Frequency (external shipping)
2. Frequency (in-country flights) 2. Frequency (in-country shipping)
3. Cooperation at regional level in air transport and civil aviation 3. Cooperation at regional level in shipping
4. Cooperation at international level 4. Cooperation at international level
5. Economic viability of national air line 5. Economic viability of national shipping line(s)
6. Economic viability of regional air line 6. Economic viability of regional shipping line (s)
7. national level training in skills for air transport sector 7. National level training in skills for maritime transport sector
8. Access to training in skills for air transport sector within the region 8. Regional level training in skills for maritime transport sector
9. Access to international training for air transport sector 9. Access to international training for maritime transport sector
10. Supportive of ICAO

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 18: PROTECTION OF THE QUALITY AND SUPPLY OF FRESHWATER RESOURCES: APPLICATION OF INTEGRATED APPROACHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT, MANAGEMENT AND USE OF WATER RESOURCES

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Freshwater resources and water sanitation are of concern because of severe deficits in some regions. The National Program for Municipal Wastewater Treatment was recently completed, and the cost of its implementation was estimated at US$40 million. It includes specific projects for the protection of the Black Sea from land-based and maritime pollution.

Bulgaria has strengthened water management efforts in recent years. It has assigned increasing financial resources to those efforts. Monitoring and information systems for ambient water quality are well-developed. Early progress has been made in increasing water conservation and pollution prevention approaches in industry and livestock production.

However, overall problems of water quantity and quality remain severe. Availability and distribution of water present serious difficulties. While current water shortages are related mainly to a prolonged drought, major problems exist with old and leaky distribution systems and with wasteful agricultural and industrial use. Many municipal waste water treatment plants are incomplete and funding for them is slow. A National Programme for Municipal Waste Water Treatment was completed recently, and the cost of its implementation was estimated at USD 40 million. It includes specific projects for the protection of the Black Sea from land-based and maritime pollution. Industrial waste will take decades to address the overall water infrastructure problem. The system of user charges and pollution fees can be improved to better reflect service cost and environmental damage; this would produce funds for investment in water sewage networks and waste water treatment plants, and give proper incentives for water conservation and pollution reduction. An effluent charge would be useful to this effect.

National Priorities

- continue and expand efforts in river basin management, with the involvement of all interested parties and agencies,

- continue and strengthen efforts to encourage water conservation and pollution prevention by industry and agriculture, through regulatory and pricing approaches as well as by fostering best management practices;

- continue to develop and implement a permit system for waste water discharges, using a phased approach with interim limits and enforceable compliance schedules;

- continue price reform for water supply, with attention to metering and collection practices, and implement water effluent charge;

- fund the completion of unfinished waste water treatment plants, giving priorities to areas where maximum benefits will occur, including attention to important tourist areas; and establish clear priorities for each river basin concerning water supply infrastructure projects.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Council of Ministers, Ministry of Environment and Waters, Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, Ministry of Health, District and local divisions of the above Ministries.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Training courses and seminars for the experts in the central and regional units. Exchange of knowledge and experience on national and international level. Improvement of public participation in the decision-making process.

3. Major Groups:

- Public authorities at central, district and local levels

- Municipal water companies and utilities

- Industrial enterprises

- Agricultural enterprises and farmers

- The general Public and NGOs

4. Finance: State budget, National Environmental Protection Fund, Municipal Environmental Protection Funds, Environmental Trust Fund.

5. Regional/International Cooperation:

- UN/ECE Convention on the protection and use of transboundary water courses and international lakes.

- Convention on cooperation for the protection and sustainable use of the Danube River

- Environmental Action Programme for Central and Eastern Europe

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 1995
Fresh water availability (total domestic/external in million m3)
14210
Annual withdrawal of freshwater as % of available water
7
79
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 19: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF TOXIC CHEMICALS, INCLUDING PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN TOXIC AND DANGEROUS PRODUCTS

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: The legislative framework for the environmentally sound management of chemicals is Article 7, para 1 and 2 from the Law on Environmental Protection and the Decree of the Council of Ministers N268/96. So as to prevent illegal traffic, the import and transit transportation of dangerous waste goods and wastes (industrial and hazardous) are also regulated.

The Council of Ministers Decree includes the lists of:

- dangerous goods published by the UN;

- hazardous substances which are prohibited for import in connection with the Vienna Convention for the protection of the ozone layer and the Montreal Protocol;

- permissions for industrial waste import for recycling for those enterprises with technology allowing for the use of raw materials and waste;

- wastes according to the EU Commission in connection with regulation N259/93 for survey and control of the waste transportation in and out of the EU countries.

Since October 1996, the Republic of Bulgaria is included in the programme Preparing a National Profile to Assess the National Infrastructure for Management of Chemicals, supported by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and IOMC (Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals) - a cooperative Agreement among UNEP, ILO, WHO, and OECD.

By the end of the second quarter of 1997, a detailed National Profile to Assess the National Infrastructure for Management of Chemicals will be submitted to UNITAR.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: Ministry of Environment and Water, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Finance, "Customs" department, Ministry of Trade and Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Transport, Bulgarian Economic Chamber, balkan Scientific and Educational Center for Ecology and Environmental Protection, Bulgarian Academy of Science, University of Chemistry Technology and Metallurgy.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Improving the cooperation among the state institutions, scientific organizations and NGOs in the decision making process in the sphere of environmental legislation.

3. Major Groups: By the enumerated in item 1 institutions.

4. Finance: Supported by UNITAR.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: In close cooperation with UNEP, ILO, FAO, WHO, UNIDO and OECD.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 20: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS WASTES, INCLUDING PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN HAZARDOUS WASTES

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal was signed in 1989 and ratified in 1996.

Additional comments relevant to this chapter

During the last biennium, a number of activities were carried out in order to facilitate compliance with the Basel Convention. In 1993, a Council of Ministers Decree was adopted regulating the collection, transportation, storage and deactivation of hazardous waste. In the same year, a draft law on waste was elaborated which reflects the requirements of the Convention. The law hasn't been adopted by the National Assembly yet. In the period 1995-1996, a national project "Study of the Hazardous Waste Management of Bulgaria", developed by an American company, was implemented. As outputs of the study, an Action Plan and a Programme for Institutional Strengthening of Hazardous Waste Management, envisage the following measures:

1. Elaboration of a system for permits and standards for hazardous waste management.

2. Requirements for the enterprises generating hazardous waste.

3. Laboratory capacities and programmes for monitoring.

4. Rehabilitation measures.

5. Correcting actions at heightened levels of health risk.

6. Institutional strengthening of the system.

Sub-laws for specific waste management, such as used lubricants and petroleum products, rejected luminescent lamps and old pesticides, are being prepared.

A National monitoring system was established containing data for the generation and treatment of hazardous waste.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: The Ministry of Environment is the competent authority and the national coordinator with respect to compliance with the Basel Convention. The decisions are taken in concurrence with the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Health Care under the initiative of the Minister of Environment or the other ministers.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: There are no modern disposal areas for hazardous waste. The several existing incinerators are owned by the companies which generate the waste and they serve only their needs.

3. Major Groups: The major groups are:

- the legislature

- the executive - the Ministry of Environment and all relevant institutions

- local governments and local administration - municipal councils, municipalities, mayors

- NGOs

- academic circles

- private companies

4. Finance:

- local sources of financing

- the National Environmental Protection Fund

- the Municipal Fund for Environmental Protection

- the State Budget

- international sources for financing

5. Regional/International Cooperation: International projects for hazardous waste management are implemented under the international cooperation programmes.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 199-
Generation of hazardous waste (t)
Import of hazardous wastes (t)
Export of hazardous wastes (t)
Area of land contaminated by hazardous waste (km2)
Expenditure on hazardous waste treatment (US$)
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 21: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF SOLID WASTES AND SEWAGE-RELATED ISSUES

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: see also Chapter 19.

Solid wastes from the household sector.

In the 1995-1996 period, a draft plan for solid waste management in Bulgaria was elaborated. It was based on approaches proved successful in the USA and EU and reflects the concrete needs and conditions of the country. Special attention was paid to the preventive reduction of wastes in the context of sustainable development.

The proposed policy is based on the following principles:

1. Clean and healthy environment

2. Rational use of available resources

3. Integrated waste management

4. Polluter pays principle

5. Public participation

These principles are in compliance with international legislative regulations and the concept of sustainable development. On the basis of the analysis of the present situation, the specific conditions in Bulgaria and the above-referred principles, the main objectives of the policy for solid household waste are derived. The objectives are as follows:

1. Reduction of the quantity of waste generated

2. Recycling and secondary use of waste

3. Improving the organisation of collection and transport of waste

4. deactivation of solid household waste

5. Reducing the risk from pollution from the past

6. Wise regulation of solid household waste

7. Public participation

For achieving the objectives, the respective main approaches and immediate tasks have been formulated. The tasks are grouped in several major directions: improving the legislation and its harmonisation with EU directives, introduction of economic instruments, measures for technical and organizational objectives and informing and involving the public.

Pursuing the management policy for solid household waste requires the organisation and coordination of all efforts and the abilities of all groups of society. In order to achieve the above-referenced objectives, concrete programmes should be elaborated and the tasks of the state bodies must be incorporated into the legal, institution and financial framework.

Special attention is given to the cooperation and distribution of tasks and responsibilities among state institutions (the Ministry of Environment, MRDC, MHC, MF, MTFC, MI, MLSA, MAFI, CSM, CP and others) and the municipalities participating in solid household waste management.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: The policy for solid household waste is within the office of the local governments. The Ministry of Environment is exercising control on the protection of the environmental components in waste treatment. Other executive institutions involved in solid household waste management are the MRDC, MHC, and MAFI.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: In the framework of the developed project, a series of workshops have been organized in which a number of environmental experts from the municipalities and NGOs have taken part. Bulgarian experts also participate in international fora on solid household waste.

3. Major Groups:

- the legislature

- the executive - the Ministry of Environment and all involved institutions

- bodies of local government and administration - municipal councils, mayors

- NGOs

- academic circles

4. Finance:

- local sources of financing

- National Environmental Protection Fund

- Municipal Environmental Protection Fund

- State Budget

- international sources of financing - USEPA, PHARE programme

5. Regional/International Cooperation: Regional cooperation in the field of solid household waste management was initiated and more concretely, the joint construction of regional disposal areas, implementation of programmes for recycling, etc.

Through international cooperation, different projects are implemented and joint ventures are established for solid household waste management.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 199-
Generation of industrial and municipal waste (t)
Waste disposed(Kg/capita)
Expenditure on waste collection and treatment (US$)
Waste recycling rates (%)
Municipal waste disposal (Kg/capita)
Waste reduction rates per unit of GDP (t/year)
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 22: SAFE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE WASTES

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: No information.

Cross-Sectoral Issues

1. Decision-Making Structure: No information.

2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No information.

3. Major Groups: No information.

4. Finance: No information.

5. Regional/International Cooperation: No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTERS 23-32: MAJOR GROUPS

The role of major groups are also covered under the various chapters of Agenda 21. The following is a summary of main objectives outlined in Agenda 21. Please check the appropriate boxes and describe briefly any important steps or obstacles.

STATUS REPORT ON PARTICIPATION BY MAJOR GROUPS AT THE

NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVELS
Ch. 24: GLOBAL ACTION FOR WOMEN TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT.

The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women was signed on 17 July 1980 and ratified on 87 February 1982.

24.a Increasing the proportion of women decision makers: The proportion of women decision-makers in parliament was 13.3% in 1992 and 1996, and the proportion of women decision-makers in local government was 19.8% in 1993 and 21.4% in 1996.

24.b assessing, reviewing, revising and implementing curricula and other educational material with a view to promoting dissemination of gender-relevant knowledge : Curricula and educational material is being revised.

24.c and 24.d formulating and implementing policies, guidelines, strategies and plans for achievement of equality in all aspects of society including issuing a strategy by year 2000 to eliminate obstacles to full participation of women in sustainable development: Policies/strategies are being developed.

24.e establishing mechanisms by 1995 to assess implementation and impact of development and environment policies and programmes on women : Mechanisms are being developed.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):

No information.

STATUS REPORT ON PARTICIPATION BY MAJOR GROUPS AT THE

NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVELS
Ch. 25: CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

25.a establishing processes that promote dialogue between the youth and government at all levels and mechanisms that permit youth access to information and opportunity to present their views on implementing A21.

1. Exhibition of children's pictures under the title "Children and the Environment" during the Third Ministerial Conference "Environment for Europe" - Sofia 95.

2. Exhibition of the materials from Agenda 21 in the museum "Earth and People" and other towns organised by NGO - Jatrus-PET - Veliko Tarnovo 1996.

3. National Conference on environmental training for teachers in the secondary schools in chemistry, physics, biology and geography - organised by the MEST and MoE - May 1996.

Describe their role in

the national process: Youth serve as advisory participants in the national process.

25.b reducing youth unemployment: Youth unemployment decreased from 44.8% (258,360 persons) to 39.6% (189826) between 1992 and 1996.

25.c ensuring that by year 2000 more than 50% of youth -- gender balanced -- have access to appropriate secondary education or vocational training: The goal set in Agenda 21 has been reached.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):

- Developing a programme for "green schools"

- Making environmental video films with the financial resources of PHARE programme with the Ministry of Environment and organising their dissemination in the schools, universities, NGOs. Initiatives for working with children. Regional Inspectorates, etc.

- Initiation and support of children's activities and initiatives for cleaning the streets, parks planting, etc on the occasion of international environmental anniversaries.

- In cooperation with MEST development of programmes and projects for environmental training included in the mandatory and additional curriculum.

STATUS REPORT ON PARTICIPATION BY MAJOR GROUPS AT THE

NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVELS
Ch. 26: RECOGNIZING AND STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND THEIR COMMUNITIES.

26.a establishing a process to empower indigenous people and their communities -- through policies and legal instruments: No information.

26.b strengthening arrangements for active participation in national policies : Indigenous people participate as advisors on an ad hoc basis in national policies.

26.c involving indigenous people in resource management strategies and programmes at the national and local level : Mechanisms for involvement are being discussed.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): No information.

Ch. 27: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS: PARTNERS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

27.a developing mechanisms that allow NGOs to play their partnership role responsibly and effectively.

27.b reviewing formal procedures and mechanisms to involve NGOs in decision making and implementation.

27.c promoting and allowing NGOs to participate in the conception, establishment and evaluation of official mechanisms to review Agenda 21 implementation: Mechanisms are being planned for 1998.

27.d establishing a mutually productive dialogue by 1995 at the national level between NGOs and governments : No information.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): The involvement of NGOs in the solution of environmental problems is within the priorities of the policy pursued by the Ministry of Environment. They participate in the preparation and implementation of programmes and projects at regional, national and international levels. In the legislation, public participation and access to information is regulated in the Regulation for the Environmental Impact Assessment and the Environmental Protection law.

STATUS REPORT ON PARTICIPATION BY MAJOR GROUPS AT THE

NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVELS
Ch. 28: LOCAL AUTHORITIES' INITIATIVES IN SUPPORT OF AGENDA 21.

28.a encouraging local authorities to implement and monitor programmes that aim to ensure participation of women and youth in local decision making: The Government supports local Agenda 21 initiatives.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):

The Ministry of Regional Development and Construction supports local initiatives aimed at sustainable development. The projects are in the process of preparation, adoption or implementation. The most important projects funded or coordinated by the MRDC are:

- National strategy for territorial development of Bulgaria

- Draft Law of territorial development

- Chart for sustainable development of Bulgarian landscape

- Regulations for Black Sea coastal development

- Development plans of the 14 coastal zone municipalities

MRDC

- subsidizes construction and reconstruction of water supply systems, local roads and landfills,

- adopts standards for the hygienic characteristics of building materials and works,

- develops housing policy.

Ch. 29: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF WORKERS AND THEIR TRADE UNIONS.

29.a full participation of workers in implementation and evaluation of A21 : No information.

29.b (By year 2000, (a) promoting ratification of ILO conventions; (b) establishing bipartite and tripartite mechanism on safety, health and sustainable development; (c) increasing number of environmental collective agreements; (d) reducing occupational accidents and injuries; (e) increasing workers' education and training efforts : ILO Conventions have been ratified.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): Bulgaria has ratified 4 ILO Conventions in the field of workers' rights (No.s 11, E7, 94 and 98). The Government intends to submit another package of ILO Conventions in this area.

30: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY.

30.a increasing the efficiency of resource use, including reuse, recycling, and reduction of waste per unit of economic output : No information.

30.b encouraging the concept of stewardship in management and use of natural resources by entrepreneurs : No information.

List any actions taken in this area: No information.

30.c increasing number of enterprises that subscribe to and implement sustainable development policies : No information.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): No information.

STATUS REPORT ON PARTICIPATION BY MAJOR GROUPS AT THE

NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVELS
Ch. 31: SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL COMMUNITY.

31.a improving exchange of knowledge and concerns between s&t community and the general public.

Scientific community has already established ways in which to address the general public and deal with

sustainable development : No information.

31.b developing, improving and promoting international acceptance of codes of practice and guidelines related to science and technology and its role in reconciling environment and development : No information.

Brief comments on this chapter not already described in chapter 35 (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): No information.

Ch. 32: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF FARMERS.

32.a promoting and encouraging sustainable farming practices and technologies: No information.

32.b developing a policy framework that provides incentives and motivation among farmers for sustainable and efficient farming practices : No information.

32.c enhancing participation of organizations of farmers in design and implementation of sustainable development policies : No information.

Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 33: FINANCIAL RESOURCES AND MECHANISMS

Financial resources and mechanisms are also covered under each sectoral chapter of Agenda 21 where relevant. This summary highlights broader national financial policies, domestic and external (including ODA)

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: The Government is doing its best through available mechanisms, including privatization, to mobilise new and additional local resources to implement a range of actions for ensuring sustainibility in the national economy. It has created room for investment activities by providing preferential treatment for investors. The main flows are expected to come from the private sector - both national and foreign - the share of which in the GNP was more than 40% in 1995. It is calculated that in order to meet environmental, health and social requirements, for example, the chemical industry needs an investment of 203 million US$, the metallurgic industry 201 million US$ and the food industry 31 million US$. Eighty percent of the total amount spent for environmental protection in 1994 came from local authorities and business sectors, while 14 percent came from the state budget and 4 % from extrabudgetary funds. The Government will also continue to rely on bilateral and multilateral international cooperation. It is open to reasonable financial innovations like the Swiss-Bulgarian debt for environment swap deal which is regarded as a win-win project of political goodwill.

CHANGES IN NATIONAL BUDGET TO ADDRESS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: No information.

NEW ECONOMIC INSTRUMENTS: No information.

ELIMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTALLY UNFRIENDLY SUBSIDIES: No information.

ODA policy issues

No information

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
ODA funding provided or received (Total US$million)
Average for 92-93
Average for 94-96
Net flow of external capital from all sources as % of GDP
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 34: TRANSFER OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND TECHNOLOGY, COOPERATION AND CAPACITY-BUILDING

Transfer of environmentally sound technology, cooperation and capacity-building is also covered under each sectoral chapter of Agenda 21 where relevant. This summary highlights broader national policies and actions relating to chapter 34.

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT ON LINKS BETWEEN NATIONAL, REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL INFORMATION NETWORKS/SYSTEMS: No information.

MEANS OF IMPLEMENTATION: No information.

Describe any work being undertaken at the national or local level regarding efforts to promote clean production processes and/or the concepts of eco-efficiency. These processes may include training, preferential financial arrangements, information dissemination and changes in legal or regulatory frameworks. No information.

Provide information on the adoption of environmental management systems. National reaction to environmental management system standards such as the ISO 14000 Series and others. Please note efforts made at the national level to promote their adoption and the creation of certification infrastructure in order to facilitate access to these standards to local industry: No information.

List and describe programs or work under way to facilitate the transfer of ESTs to small and medium sized enterprises. Please note efforts to facilitate access to financial resources and other transfer strategies:

No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 35: SCIENCE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT ON NATIONAL SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE, RESEARCH NEEDS AND PRIORITIES: No information.

STEPS TAKEN TO ENHANCE SCIENTIFIC UNDERSTANDING, IMPROVE LONG TERM SCIENTIFIC ASSESSMENT, BUILDING OF CAPACITY AND CAPABILITY: No information.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
Year
Number of scientists, engineers and technicians engaged in research and experimental development
45,577
1992
Total expenditure for research and experimental development (US$eq.)
$
19--
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 36: PROMOTING EDUCATION, PUBLIC AWARENESS AND TRAINING

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:

1. Environmental Strategy

2. National Strategy for Biodiversity Conservation

3. Work on the Pan-European Strategy, landscape and biodiversity

4. Phase-wise introduction of environmental education and training in all levels at the schools in the mandatory and additional curriculum.

a) Reorientation of education towards sustainable development

In cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology - conception for a new programme "Environmental education and training."

b) Increasing public awareness

The Ministry of Environment is financing the media disseminating information and knowledge connected with environmental protection and sustainable development policy, issues brochures, video films and books.

c) Promoting training

Training courses are organised for the Regional Inspectorates, different public groups, local governments, NGOs, agricultural sector.

ROLE OF MAJOR GROUPS:

- local governments - pursue regional environmental policy in conformity with the central government

- educational sector - reorganises the educational and training policy

- business - through Environment Impact Assessment

- agriculture - environmental agriculture

FINANCING AND COST EVALUATION OF THE LABOUR ACTIVITIES: Financing is provided through the National Environmental Protection Fund and international programmes and projects.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1990
Latest 1992
Adult literacy rate (%) Male
98.7
98.5
Adult literacy rate (%) Female
97.1
97.3
% of primary school children reaching grade 5 (1986-97)
88
Mean number of years of schooling
11
11
11
12
% of GNP spent on education
4.5
5.6
6.4
Females per 100 males in secondary school
92.3
100
100
100
Women per 100 men in the labour force
48.3
50.5
49.8
Other data

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 37: NATIONAL MECHANISMS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION FOR CAPACITY-BUILDING IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

National capacity building is also covered under sectoral chapters.

Donors: You may wish to describe here how Agenda 21 has influenced your ODA policies in this area.

Developing countries: You may wish to describe any new national mechanisms for capacity building - and any changes in technical cooperation.

NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT ON NATIONAL ENDOGENOUS CAPACITY BUILDING:

Capacity 21 Programme in Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, the best opportunity to pursue the global Capacity 21's objectives of integration, participation and information currently exists at the community level. Capacity 21 resources can be most effectively used by supporting the Government of Bulgaria's and UNDP-Bulgaria's efforts to promote sustainable human development at the community level.

The Capacity 21 programme can help the Government of Bulgaria prepare the groundwork for the preparation of a national strategy for sustainable development through support in several key areas:

- development of a framework for sustainable community development;

- enhancement of national awareness and knowledge of Bulgaria's key sustainable development challenges and options;

- enhancement of the capacity of Bulgarian public media to understand and communicate clear messages regarding Bulgaria's sustainable development and options, and

- improvement of sustainable development education in public schools.

These are essential steps in preparing for a future Bulgarian national strategy for sustainable development, a Bulgarian Agenda 21.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 38: INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

Ch. 38: Brief summary of any particular UN System response affecting this country/state:

No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 39: INTERNATIONAL LEGAL INSTRUMENTS AND MECHANISMS

Ch. 39: International Legal Instruments are covered under the relevant sectoral chapters. This is a listing of major agreements/conventions (not already covered) entered into and relevant to Agenda 21:

No information.

AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 40: INFORMATION FOR DECISION-MAKING

This chapter is also covered under sectoral and other chapters of this profile. The matrix below gives an overview of how national authorities rate the available information for decision making.

Rating of available data and information suitable for decision-making

Agenda 21 Chapters
Very
good
Good
Some good
data but
many gaps
Poor
Remarks
2. International cooperation and trade
3. Combating poverty
4. Changing consumption patterns
5. Demographic dynamics and sustainability
6. Human health
7. Human settlements
8. Integrating E & D in decision-making
9. Protection of the atmosphere
10. Integrated planning and management of land resources
11. Combating deforestation
12. Combating desertification and drought
13. Sustainable mountain development
14. Sustainable agriculture and rural development
15. Conservation of biological diversity
16. Biotechnology
17. Oceans, seas, coastal areas and their living resources
18. Freshwater resources
19. Toxic chemicals
20. Hazardous wastes
21. Solid wastes
22. Radioactive wastes
24. Women in sustainable development
25. Children and youth
26. Indigenous people
27. Non-governmental organizations
28. Local authorities
29. Workers and trade unions
30. Business and industry
31. Scientific and technological community
32. Farmers
33. Financial resources and mechanisms
34. Technology, cooperation and capacity-building
35. Science for sustainable development
36. Education, public awareness and training
37. International cooperation for capacity-building
38. International institutional arrangements
39. International legal instruments
40. Information for decision-making

Additional Comments

No information.

STATISTICAL DATA/INDICATORS
1980
1993
Latest 199-
Number of telephones in use per 100 inhabitants
Other data

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