site.btaCabinet Allocates BGN 2.5 Mln for Research on Critical, Strategic Raw Materials

Bulgaria's Cabinet Wednesday approved BGN 2.5 million for the implementation of the first 12-month stage of a national scientific programme on critical and strategic raw materials for green transition and sustainable development. The programme aims to support fundamental and applied research to enhance this country's potential for extraction and processing of raw materials that are strategically important for both the national and European economies.

These materials are essential for key sectors of the economy, including the automotive, steel, aerospace, information technology, healthcare, and renewable energy industries.

Set to run for five years from 2024 to 2029, the programme has a total budget of BGN 8.5 million. Of the BGN 2.5 million allocated for the first phase, BGN 1 million is designated for purchasing research equipment.

The programme's outcomes will assist the government and society in tackling various challenges, such as transitioning smoothly to renewable energy sources, implementing zero-waste technologies, and processing primary resources.

Eligible beneficiaries for the programme funds include accredited universities, research organizations, and museums of natural history and mineralogy, which must collaborate in a consortium with the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences as the lead partner to coordinate the initiative.