site.btaEco-Municipality Awards: Local Solutions for a Greener Future

Out of 17 municipalities that submitted applications, a select number received awards in the Eco-Municipality competition for their sustainable projects at a ceremony held at the French Institute in Sofia, the organizers said here on Friday.

In the Waste and Recycling category for large municipalities (with over 40,000 residents), Gabrovo, Central Bulgaria, received recognition for its shared composting initiative and the establishment of a mobile collection point for household waste. Among smaller municipalities (with fewer than 40,000 residents), the southern town of Svilengrad stood out for pioneering a waste fee system based on the volume of waste generated. The town has also introduced innovative microchipped waste bins to monitor and measure waste disposal.

Two special awards were also presented in this category. Burgas, on the Black Sea (with over 40,000 residents) received an award for creating plastic-free zones and launching initiatives to promote furniture reuse. Meanwhile, Smyadovo, Northern Bulgaria (with fewer than 40,000 residents) received an award for its effective use of a mobile app and local Viber groups to engage residents in waste separation and recycling efforts.

In the Sustainable Mobility category for municipalities with more than 40,000 residents, Sliven, Southeastern Bulgaria, received an award for its planned investments in sustainable mobility and eco-friendly transportation initiatives.

In the Energy and Emissions category, Strelcha Municipality, Southern Bulgaria (with fewer than 40,000 residents) received an award for its comprehensive building inspections and its innovative use of geothermal energy to heat and cool three school buildings, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

"The actual implementation of any policy at the European or national level relies on our capacity, enthusiasm, and commitment," said Silvia Georgieva, Executive Director of the National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria (NAMRB). She added that municipalities serve as the cornerstone for implementing policies at the local level, ensuring that European support translates into tangible benefits for citizens. Georgieva commended the award-winning municipalities for their innovative energy solutions, commitment to environmental preservation, and efforts to advance sustainable mobility. She also thanked the French Embassy and the French Cultural Institute for their role in organizing the competition.

French Ambassador to Bulgaria Joel Meyer said: "Eco-Municipality is more than just a competition and award ceremony; it's a series of initiatives promoting sustainable cities." He highlighted the inclusion of seminars on circular economy practices, waste management, recycling, and sustainable development as part of the initiative. Meyer also drew attention to the preservation of Sofia's rivers as an example of local environmental action. UN statistics indicate cities are responsible for 60% of greenhouse gas emissions globally. This competition strengthens partnerships by providing winners the opportunity to visit France and exchange best practices with French municipalities, he added.

Caretaker Regional Development and Public Works Minister Violeta Koritarova and Deputy Environment Minister Reneta Koleva also expressed gratitude to the French Embassy in Bulgaria and the French Institute in Sofia.