During the voyage, Diana Pavlova, representing the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF) within the BLUE CONNECT project, delivered a lecture dedicated to seagrasses and their key role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. She explained the differences between seagrasses and algae, presented information about the status of seagrass species in the Black Sea, and highlighted global efforts to restore underwater meadows as a measure to address climate change and biodiversity loss.
The participants showed great interest and engaged in conversation, asking where seagrasses can be observed along the Bulgarian coast, at what depths they grow, how long they live, and how each of us can contribute to the protection of coastal habitats.
The voyage also involved representatives of Burgas State University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” and Burgas Free University. On-site measurements of seawater parameters were also conducted, showing values within the range of good ecological status. Participants also followed in real time a dive to the Underwater Park “St. Anastasia” via a underwater drone, observing the marine life that has emerged around the underwater chapel and statue in the island’s waters.
The event was organized by the team of St. Anastasia Island. Situated in Burgas Bay — one of the demonstration sites of the BLUE CONNECT project — St. Anastasia Island offers a unique natural and cultural setting for exploring the Black Sea’s coastal and marine environment.The island’s manager, Pavlin Dimitrov, is a member of the Local Stakeholder Working Group (LSWG – Burgas Bay) under the BLUE CONNECT project, contributing to cooperation between the scientific community, institutions, and local communities.
