site.btaBulgaria Focuses on Sustainable Tourism at Budapest Forum

Bulgaria's Deputy Tourism Minister Irena Georgieva is taking part in a Meeting of Directors-General and the 23rd European Tourism Forum, held under the auspices of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU, in Budapest on November 12 and 13. During the event, key topics related to the effort countering climate change and the challenges of overtourism were discussed, said the ministry on Wednesday.

During discussions Georgieva highlighted Bulgaria's efforts in implementing innovative policies and business practices aimed at the sustainable development of the tourism sector.

"Bulgaria is committed to achieving the highest environmental standards in tourism. Our companies strive to produce clean and renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions and manage their energy consumption efficiently," Deputy Minister Georgieva said.

The certification of 22 beaches with a Blue Flag is a clear sign of Bulgaria's progress in implementing global environmental standards, she said

Georgieva also stressed that the European Commission, in cooperation with the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA), is supporting Bulgaria in the development of a Tourism Crisis Management Plan.

Regarding overtourism, the Deputy Minister noted that although the country is not directly affected by this phenomenon, efforts to redirect tourists to less popular destinations can be helpful. "Tourism in small localities is vital for the economic development of these regions," she said.

The event brought together more than 120 delegates from EU member states, including senior representatives of the European Commission, who took part in the discussions.