Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B NEXT Black Sea Basin

Date of latest update: 2025-09-26

Description

Description (EN):

The AlgaeRevive project is a collaborative effort aimed at leveraging the potential of algae to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable economic development in the Black Sea region. Through innovative tools, research activities, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the project aims to create a lasting impact and foster a collective approach to algae-related issues.The project brings together partners from five countries - Romania, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, and Ukraine - to collaboratively address common challenges related to algal blooms and their impact on the marine ecosystem. The project's overall objective is to establish the Black Sea Algae Knowledge Hub, which will serve as a centralized platform for sharing research, innovation, and best practices related to algae. This hub will facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders, including scientists, researchers, industry partners, policymakers, and the public. Key activities of the project include the development of an AI-powered algae monitoring tool called AlgaeSense. This tool will utilize data from the EU Copernicus Marine Service and provide real-time monitoring and forecasting of algae blooms in the Black Sea. The AlgaeSense tool will contribute to early detection and mitigation efforts, helping to reduce the negative impacts of algal blooms on the marine ecosystem and coastal communities. The project also entails pilot actions, such as the identification and cultivation of algae species with industrial potential, as well as their introduction into selected areas of the sea to assess their effectiveness in reducing nutrient levels and mitigating eutrophication. These pilot actions will provide valuable insights into the viability of algae-based solutions for pollution reduction and their potential for industrial uptake.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During its first reporting period, the AlgaeRevive Project made significant strides in promoting algae-based solutions for pollution reduction and sustainable blue growth in the Black Sea region. By fostering scientific research, cross-border collaboration, and stakeholder engagement, the project has built a solid foundation for future impact. The Via Pontica Foundation (VPF), as the Lead Partner, successfully managed the project's financial and administrative processes, ensuring smooth and efficient implementation. A dedicated team of experts was assembled to oversee project activities, ensuring compliance and quality results. A Steering Board was established, enabling all partners to actively participate in governance and decision-making. The lead partner (VPF) developed a comprehensive project management handbook, enriched with valuable contributions from all project partners. The project started with a preparatory period for all partners and a Kick-Off Meeting on October 3, 2024 (online), followed by monthly online meeting on November 4th, an in-person meeting on December 17, 2024, in Burgas, Bulgaria, hosted by VPF. These meetings aligned all partners on key project objectives, financial and communication strategies, and research priorities. One of the major outcomes was the initiation of the Black Sea Algae Knowledge Hub (Activity 1.1.), designed to enhance knowledge exchange and foster regional cooperation. It was also during the first reporting period that University “Prof. Assen Zlatarov” (UNIAZ), Bulgaria hosted the International Scientific Conference "Black Sea – Advancing Ecosystem Remediation and Blue Economy Innovation" in December 2024 in Burgas, bringing together over 50 researchers, policymakers, and industry representatives. All project partners took part in the conference and contributed to the algae research topic The university conducted studies on Chlorella vulgaris, demonstrating its potential to enhance crop growth and soil health. It also actively promoted the project through its website and social media. Tsotne Mirtskhulava Water Management Institute, Georgia initiated stakeholder consultations with government bodies and NGOs to strengthen collaboration. The team planned key meetings in the Georgian towns of Batumi, Kobuleti, and Poti, securing verbal support from the Georgian Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture for project initiatives. Odesa State Agrarian University (OSAU), Ukraine advanced research on microalgae as biofertilizers and biostimulants, with a focus on improving soil quality and crop productivity. The university also engaged students, farmers, and policymakers in awareness campaigns on the benefits of algae-based technologies. Hellenic Agricultural Organization DIMITRA (ELGO), Greece worked on integrating algae-based biofertilizers into sustainable farming practices, testing their impact on crop productivity together with local farmers and agronomists. Ovidius University of Constanța (OUC), Romania actively participated in project coordination, monitoring, and evaluation, ensuring smooth implementation and efficient communication among partners. At the International Scientific Conference "Black Sea – Advancing Ecosystem Remediation and Blue Economy Innovation" they put the spotlight on Research on the characterization of Cystoseira barbata from the Black Sea Coast. AlgaeRevive placed strong emphasis on outreach and collaboration, with partners engaging over 100 stakeholders, including researchers, local authorities, and policymakers. VPF launched official project pages on Facebook and LinkedIn, increasing visibility and engagement. OSAU actively promoted the project through university networks, online platforms, and agricultural communities. Georgian partners worked closely with government representatives and NGOs to ensure long-term policy impact and implementation. AlgaeRevive stands as a model of cross-border collaboration, bringing together experts from Bulgaria, Ukraine, Georgia, Greece, and Romania to develop innovative environmental solutions. By pooling knowledge, resources, and expertise, the project is shaping the future of algae-based sustainability in the Black Sea region. Together, we are not only restoring ecosystems but also driving the blue economy forward. During the first reporting period, the AlgaeRevive Project laid a strong foundation by promoting algae-based solutions for pollution reduction and sustainable blue growth in the Black Sea region. The Via Pontica Foundation (VPF), as Lead Partner, managed financial and administrative processes, established a Steering Board, and developed a project management handbook. The project held preparatory meetings including a Kick-Off Meeting and monthly coordination meetings. The International Scientific Conference in Bulgaria gathered over 50 participants and highlighted algae research. Partners conducted studies on algae species such as Chlorella vulgaris and Cystoseira barbata, engaged stakeholders including governments and NGOs, and promoted the project via social media and networks. During the second reporting period (02 January 2025 – 30 April 2025): Via Pontica Foundation (Lead Partner) continued coordination by organizing four regular online meetings with all partners to monitor progress and facilitate decision-making. VPF managed official communication channels (Facebook, LinkedIn), created content in January 2025, and led the preparation and publication of the first edition of the AlgaeRevive newsletter in February 2025, which introduced the project’s mission, activities, and innovative algae-based pollution reduction approaches. VPF also facilitated discussions on the real-time algae monitoring tool to align technical parameters with project goals. PP2 Burgas State University focused on preparatory activities for equipment installation, including logistics, delivery, and technical inspections to ensure suitable installation conditions. They conducted an extensive literature review on algal species of the Black Sea to identify those suitable for cultivation. Initial laboratory experiments tested Chlorella strains provided by Ukrainian partners to assess adaptability and water quality impacts. The university was responsible for managing social media publications. PP3 Water Management Institute of Georgian Technical University carried out reconnaissance field scientific studies along a 150 km stretch of the Georgian Black Sea coast to analyze algae spread and the effects of river estuaries during floods. Results indicated that algae were inundated during floods and tides by water masses, sediments, and solid waste. The institute held working meetings with the National Environmental Agency and secured agreements for joint scientific research and involvement of external experts from the Batumi branch of the agency. PP4 Odesa State Agrarian University carried out administrative and organizational work to ensure compliance with the grant agreement, team involvement, and staff discipline. A new research specialist was added. OSAU invested in infrastructure upgrades, including equipment purchase and premises restoration at its own expense, to support the Black Sea Algae Knowledge Hub. OSAU proposed and discussed with partners a list of water and soil parameters for the AlgaeSense monitoring system, including temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, heavy metals, soil moisture, organic matter, and nutrients. An algorithm for zoning was developed to standardize data collection methods. Preparations for tender procedures to gather algae data in Ukraine were initiated. Research was conducted on technological innovations in algae use, nutrient media for Chlorella vulgaris, and biostimulant applications. Materials were prepared for international conference presentations. A stakeholder questionnaire was created and disseminated, receiving 39 responses by period end. PP5 ELGO DIMITRA contributed mainly through scientific coordination of data collection for the AlgaeSense monitoring tool. ELGO participated in consortium meetings to discuss methodology harmonization and align deliverables with national monitoring practices. Procurement procedures delayed due to budget modifications were prepared for tendering in the next period, covering equipment and external expertise. ELGO also contributed a research note on integrating microalgae into aquaponic systems for the project newsletter, supporting knowledge sharing and infrastructure development. PP6 Ovidius University of Constanța engaged in project monitoring and evaluation discussions in partner meetings. A representative was appointed to manage social media content. The team contributed materials to the newsletter and participated in discussions on monitoring tool parameters. Research activities aligned with the project goals were initiated. OUC led the organization of the International Scientific Conference in Romania. Cross-border cooperation has enabled pooling expertise and resources across Bulgaria, Georgia, Ukraine, Greece, and Romania, providing a strong foundation for innovative environmental solutions using algae to restore ecosystems and promote sustainable blue growth in the Black Sea region.

Project outputs: Algae K-Hub decentralized online collaboration platform(EN)
AlgaeSense monitoring system(EN)
Established transboundary cooperation for joint algae monitoring and research(EN)
Organizations cooperationg across borders(EN)

Thematic information

ICT and digital society Institutional cooperation and cooperation networks Knowledge and technology transfer

Priority: (VI-B_BSB_P1) Blue and Smart Region

Priority specific objective: RSO1.1. Developing and enhancing research and innovation capacities and the uptake of advanced technologies

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO1 A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity

Type of intervention: 029 Research and innovation processes, technology transfer and cooperation between enterprises, research centres and universities, focusing on the low carbon economy, resilience and adaptation to climate change

Partners (7)

Lead Partner: Фондация "Виа Понтика"

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 912293052

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 176942493

Address: Petrova niva, 8154 Burgas, Bulgaria

Department address: Petrova niva, 8154 Burgas, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.viapontica.org

Total budget: EUR 256 800.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 231 120.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 25 680.00

Contractors:

Name: Sensit City OOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 207042139
Name: P-UNITED EOOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 131572936
Name: Studio Palitra EOOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 203969412
Name: ComputerMax OOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 147228218

Universitatea Ovidius Din Constanta

Name: Universitatea Ovidius Din Constanta

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 997817176

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4301332

Address: University Alley, 900470 Constanca, Romania

Department address: Mamaia Boulevard, 900527 Constanca, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.univ-ovidius.ro

Total budget: EUR 304 308.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 273 877.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 30 430.80

Ελληνικός Γεωργικός Οργανισμός - ΔΗΜΗΤΡΑ

Name: Ελληνικός Γεωργικός Οργανισμός - ΔΗΜΗΤΡΑ

Department: Institute of Plant Breeding and Genetic Resources

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 953814096

Partner’s ID if not PIC: EL997604027 | State owned institute (EN)

Address: Kourtidou, 11145 Athens, Greece

Department address: NR Thessaloniki- Poligyros, GR57001 Thessaloniki, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.elgo.gr

Total budget: EUR 233 688.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 210 319.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 23 368.80

Contractors:

Name: Theocharis Siozos
VAT registration or tax identification number: 160578591

Одеський державний аграрний університет

Name: Одеський державний аграрний університет

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 897301702

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 004930015422

Address: St. Kanatna, 65039 Odesa, Ukraine

Department address: Panteleimonivska street, 65012 Odesa, Ukraine

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://osau.edu.ua/en/

Total budget: EUR 219 564.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 197 607.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 21 956.40

Contractors:

Name: IE Vitalii Dikhtiarenko
VAT registration or tax identification number: 3562610136
Name: IE Yuliia Steshenko
VAT registration or tax identification number: 3142716688
Name: FROLOVA Yuliia
VAT registration or tax identification number: 3036914608

საქართველოს ტექნიკური უნივერსიტეტის ცოტნე მირცხულავას სახელობის წყალთა მეურნეობის ინსტიტუტი

Name: საქართველოს ტექნიკური უნივერსიტეტის ცოტნე მირცხულავას სახელობის წყალთა მეურნეობის ინსტიტუტი

Department: Tsotne MIrtskulava Water Management Institute

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 983636358

Partner’s ID if not PIC: N/A | 211349192 | Identification Number (EN)

Address: Kostava St., 0160 Tbilisi, Georgia

Department address: I Chavchavadze Ave, 0179 Tbilisi, Georgia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.gtu.ge

Total budget: EUR 214 428.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 192 985.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 21 442.80

Бургаски държавен университет "Проф. д-р Асен Златаров"

Name: Бургаски държавен университет "Проф. д-р Асен Златаров"

Department: Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Ecology and environmental protection

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 986554506

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 000044541

Address: Prof. Yakim Yakimov, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria

Department address: Prof. Yakim Yakimov, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.btu.bg

Total budget: EUR 242 111.04

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 217 899.93

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 24 211.11

Contractors:

Name: STEMO EOOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: BG817080126
Name: Labtex EOOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: BG115752045
Name: ComputerMax OOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 147228218
Name: Advokat Marin Milev
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1900026980

Университет "Проф. д-р Асен Златаров"

Name: Университет "Проф. д-р Асен Златаров"

Department: Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Ecology and environmental protection

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 986554506

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 000044541

Address: Prof. Yakim Yakimov, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria

Department address: Prof. Yakim Yakimov, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.btu.bg

Total budget: EUR 242 111.04

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 217 899.93

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 24 211.11

Contractors:

Name: ComputerMax OOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 147228218
Name: Advokat Marin Milev
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1900026980

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

OVidius University

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Partners and Projects info

Hellenic Agricultural Organization DIMITRA

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Partners and Projects info

Odesa State Agrarian University

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Partners and Projects info

Tsotne Mirtskulava Water Management Institute of the Georgian Technical University

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Partners and Projects info

BURGAS STATE UNIVERSITY "PROF. D-R ASSEN ZLATAROV"

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Partners and Projects info

Via Pontica Foundation

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Partners and Projects info

PROF DR ASEN ZLATAROV UNIVERSITY

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Project acronym: AlgaeRevive

Project ID: BSB00091

Project start date: 2024-09-02

Project end date: 2027-03-01

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Blue Growth Initiative (EN) | The project aligns with the FAO's Blue Growth Initiative, which focuses on the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture. The Blue Growth Initiative emphasizes the need to maximize economic and social benefits while minimizing environmental degradation in these sectors, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The project contributes to the goals of the Blue Growth Initiative by promoting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices. It aims to ensure the protection and sustainability of the marine ecosystem in the project area, which aligns with the initiative's objective of managing the environment and its resources in a sustainable manner. By implementing targeted interventions and creating enabling conditions, the project seeks to maximize economic and social benefits while minimizing environmental degradation, thus supporting the goals of the Blue Growth Initiative. In terms of synergies, the project will actively collaborate with the FAO and other stakeholders involved in the Blue Growth Initiative. This collaboration will involve sharing experiences, exchanging knowledge, and aligning objectives and activities to maximize the impact and effectiveness of both the project and the Blue Growth Initiative. The project will also explore opportunities for joint initiatives and funding mechanisms to support sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development in the project area, leveraging the expertise and resources available through the Blue Growth Initiative. (EN), Conference of peripheral MaritiMe regions (EN) | The CPMR recognizes the importance of innovation and research for regional development. The AlgaeRevive project will work to collaborate with the CPMR to promote innovation initiatives of the Black Sea region, share the research and development of the project, and facilitate knowledge exchange in areas of mutual interest. (EN), Black Sea Economic Cooperation (EN) | By leveraging the project's expertise and initiatives in macroalgae cultivation, AlgaeRevive will play a significant role in promoting sustainable practices and environmental protection in the Black Sea region. AlgaeRevive project will actively participate in workshops and joint meetings organized by BSEC and the Permanent Secretariat of the Commission on the Protection of the Black Sea against Pollution and also will invite them to project's transnational events. These platforms will provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, discussing the implementation of environmental strategies, and fostering practical cooperation. AlgaeRevive project team will present its research findings, methodologies, and best practices related to macroalgae cultivation and its potential role in mitigating environmental challenges in the Black Sea ecosystem. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 470 899.04

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 323 809.13

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 90.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The project contributes to the EU Strategy for the Danube Region by addressing eutrophication, promoting cross-border cooperation, fostering research and innovation, and supporting the principles of environmental sustainability, integrated water management, and blue growth in the Black Sea Basin, which is connected to the Danube River.
The project's efforts align with the objectives and themes of the EU Strategy, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the Danube region and its natural resources. In particular, the strategy aims to promote environmental sustainability and the protection of natural resources.The project directly contributes to this objective by addressing marine pollution, a significant environmental issue in the Black Sea, which is influenced by nutrient runoff from the Danube River basin. By mitigating eutrophication and reducing heavy metal pollution, the project supports the environmental sustainability of the Danube and the Black Sea Basin as a whole. The EU Strategy emphasizes the importance of integrated water management to ensure the sustainable use of water resources. The AlgaeRevive project aligns with this objective by focusing on the monitoring and assessment of algae communities and nutrient levels in the Black Sea coastal area. By understanding the dynamics of eutrophication and developing innovative solutions, the project contributes to the integrated water management efforts in the Danube River basin and the Black Sea region. The EU Strategy promotes research, innovation, and knowledge exchange as drivers of sustainable development. The project contributes by conducting scientific research on algae communities, nutrient reduction strategies, and the feasibility of algae-based solutions for eutrophication control. The project's knowledge hub and data-sharing platforms facilitate the exchange of information, research findings, and best practices, promoting innovation and supporting evidence-based decision-making.
SeaBasinStrategyBlackSea The project aligns with the Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea by addressing several priorities and goals outlined in the agenda.
Goal I: Healthy marine and coastal ecosystems. The project supports the protection and sustainability of the marine ecosystem through its actions. It promotes the development of a consistent approach for the protection and restoration of the Black Sea ecosystem, including research on ecosystem assessments, forecasts, and management. The project encourages joint projects among protected areas and the exchange of best practices in managing protected areas. It also promotes research and valorization of biodiversity and natural heritage.
Goal II: A competitive, innovative, and sustainable blue economy. The project contributes to fostering innovation, sustainable growth, and up-to-date jobs in the Black Sea's blue economy. It supports research and innovation and the integration of new technologies.
Goal III: Fostering investment in the Black Sea blue economy. The project aims to support the upgrading of algae knowledge improve access to financial resources and promote sustainable investment in the blue economy.
Other The project aligns with the European Green Deal, which aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. By addressing marine pollution and blue economy development and promoting sustainable practices in the Black Sea Basin, the project contributes to the environmental objectives of the Green Deal. It focuses on reducing pollution, protecting biodiversity, and fostering the development of the Blue Bioeconomy, which supports the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy.
Other The project aligns with the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which aims to halt biodiversity loss and restore degraded ecosystems. By mitigating heavy metal pollution and protecting the marine ecosystem, the project directly contributes to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity in the Black Sea Basin. It seeks to restore the balance and health of the ecosystem by using algae-based solutions and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.
Other The AlgaeRevive project aligns with the principles, objectives, and priorities of the Convention for the Protection of the Black Sea Against Pollution, also known as the Bucharest Convention, by addressing eutrophication, promoting transboundary cooperation, sharing knowledge and data, and contributing to sustainable development in the Black Sea Basin. The project supports the implementation of the Convention's commitments and contributes to the overall protection and conservation of the Black Sea marine environment.
Other The project contributes to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 007 - Research organisations participating in joint research projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B NEXT Black Sea Basin

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-09-26

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

42 / 42 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

189 / 189 (100%)

Notes on the data

Languages

Contact Form

Harnessing Algae Power for Pollution Reduction and Blue Growth

Description

Thematic information

Partners (7)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Disclaimer