Biodiversity Act Amended on First Reading to Introduce Management Authorities for Protection Areas

Diana Dukovska

Deputy Parliament Chair Nikola Minchev at an extraordinary sitting, Sofia, September 18, 2023 (BTA Photo)

Sofia,

18.09.2023 18:39

(BTA)

Parliament Monday adopted on first reading Biodiversity Act amendments proposed by the caretaker government. They are intended to deal with non-fulfilment of obligations under the Habitats Directive, for which the European Commission has referred Bulgaria to the Court of Justice of the EU.

The amendments ensure greater effectiveness in the management of the Natura 2000 network of nature protection areas by introducing at the legislative level management authorities for protection areas and their powers and territorial scope. The Environment and Water Minister is designated a national management authority for the Natura 2000 network and his powers are regulated. The composition of the National Biodiversity Council is expanded to include representatives of territorial and local authorities and nationally represented trade unions, employers, sectoral and other organizations. An obligation to develop territorial management plans for Natura 2000 sites is also introduced.

The proposed amendments also introduce a requirement for the National Prioritised Action Framework for Natura 2000 to be drafted by the Environment and Water Minister and to be considered and adopted by the Council of Ministers for a six-year period. It can be review every two years if necessary.

/RY/