site.btaAverage Annual Temperature in Bulgaria Rises by 1.3 C in 20 Years

Average Annual Temperature in Bulgaria Rises by 1.3 C in 20 Years

Sofia, December 3 (BTA) - Analyses suggest that the average annual temperature in Bulgaria has risen by 1.3C in the past 20 years, said here Thursday Environment Minister Ivelina Vassileva at a conference on "Climate Change: Challenges to Bulgarian Nature and Tourism".

Vulnerability studies show that the tourism industry is moderately sustainable. Climate change creates preconditions for a longer tourist summer season, said Vassileva, stressing the need for Bulgaria to develop all-year round types of tourism. According to her, this will create possibilities for small and mid-sized businesses and will open new jobs.

The effect of climate change in Bulgaria is evident in longer drought periods, decreased annual precipitation but with higher intensity. This increases the risk of floodings, thunderstorms and other natural disasters.

According to Vassileva, vulnerability studies of the sectors of the Bulgarian economy show that Bulgaria is relatively stable and most sectors are moderately sustainable. Water resources data show improvement in the physical and chemical properties of water, larger volumes of treated waste waters and more settlements with adequate water supply and treatment systems.

Decreased precipitation poses a risk of drought and insufficient water debit, said Vassileva. However, Bulgaria isn't water-stressed unlike other southern countries.

Between 2016 and 2035, there wonТt be significant changes to ecosystems' carrying capacity. Most sensitive will be inland wetlands and shrub ecosystems, said the Environment Minister. Studies have shown that urban environment is extremely sustainable to climate change and no drastic change in climate is expected until 2035.