Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

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

Date of latest update: 2025-12-18

Description

Description (EN):

The Black Sea marine ecosystem faces significant challenges due to human activities such as nutrient introduction causing eutrophication, pollution from contaminants, non-indigenous species, overfishing, and habitat destruction, all intensified by climate change. These pressures threaten biodiversity, ecosystem services, and the livelihoods of communities dependent on the sea. Effective and sustainable management is particularly crucial given the recent impacts of the Ukraine war. Despite the economic significance of sectors like transport, shipbuilding, oil and gas exploitation, fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism, there is an urgent need for environmental sustainability improvement. Disparities in research and innovation between riparian countries further exacerbate these challenges, highlighting the need for digitalization and sustainability measures to promote local innovation, stakeholder engagement, and technological progress for a smart and sustainable blue economy. The primary objective of ANEMONE PLUS is to enhance the resilience and sustainability of the Black Sea marine ecosystem by improving the assessment of its vulnerability to human and climate pressures. This will be achieved by advancing collaboration among scientists, businesses, governance bodies, and citizens to develop and translate research findings into practical tools. The expected change is a transformed approach to addressing marine environmental challenges in the Black Sea region, characterized by improved stakeholder engagement, informed decision-making bodies, and the adoption of advanced technologies and sustainable practices, leading to a more competitive, innovative, and environmentally friendly economic landscape. ANEMONE PLUS will develop a comprehensive database categorizing key stakeholders within the Black Sea region and establish a structured framework for ongoing collaboration between organizations in different countries. This framework will facilitate the integration and applicability of research findings across borders, promoting regional cooperation. A series of workshops will be organized to refine the project's outputs based on stakeholder feedback, including advisory groups meeting for the Black Sea Commission, ensuring they are practical and meet real-world needs. Collaborative studies involving multiple research organizations from four riparian Black Sea countries (Bulgaria, Romania, Türkiye and Ukraine) will be launched to address common environmental challenges. ANEMONE PLUS will develop a suite of tools to enhance biodiversity assessment, pollution monitoring, and environmental management. These tools will be based on advanced methodologies such as underwater cameras, eDNA barcoding, remote sensing technologies, passive samplers, passive acoustics, machine learning and modelling. Comprehensive guidelines and best practices for environmental management will be created, providing actionable recommendations for policymakers, businesses, and community groups. To ensure accessibility for non-specialists, ANEMONE PLUS will package these tools in user-friendly formats (WebGIS), with intuitive interface and comprehensive user manuals. Training sessions will be conducted to familiarize scientists with the new tools and methodologies. A detailed dissemination plan will maximize the impact of ANEMONE PLUS findings, including presentations at conferences, publications in scientific journals, and digital media outreach. This strategic approach ensures that research content is relevant and applicable to end-users, with comprehensive dissemination and scaling activities maximizing the impact and sustainability of the project's outcomes. Transnational cooperation is essential for the success of ANEMONE PLUS due to the shared nature of the Black Sea ecosystem and the interconnected challenges faced by riparian countries. By aligning strategies and increasing regional expertise in the Black Sea Commission, the project can address disparities in research and innovation capacities, promote technological advancements, and ensure the widespread adoption of sustainable practices. Moreover, by aligning with Horizon Europe projects, ANEMONE PLUS ensures synergies that amplify the impact of marine conservation initiatives, using shared knowledge and resources to achieve a healthier, more resilient Black Sea ecosystem. This coordinated approach maximizes the effectiveness of each project and enhances a comprehensive and unified strategy for marine environmental protection and sustainable development.

Expected Achievements (EN):

The specific objective of ANEMONE PLUS is to enhance the assessment and management of the Black Sea marine ecosystem's vulnerability to human and climate pressures by developing and implementing a comprehensive set of tools, guidelines, and best practices. This objective is realistically achievable within the project's lifetime through collaborative efforts among scientists, businesses, governance bodies, and citizens. Success will be measured by the development and validation of eight analytical and predictive tools, the creation and dissemination of three comprehensive guidelines, and the active engagement of at least 100 stakeholders through 16 events. This targeted approach ensures that the project's outputs are specific, verifiable, and lead to meaningful improvements in the sustainable management of the Black Sea marine ecosystem.

Project outputs: Stakeholder Database(EN)
Strategic Toolbox Architecture(EN)
Cross-Border Collaboration Framework(EN)
ANEMONE PLUS Public Open Day (EN)
Joint Research Initiatives(EN)
Field Validation and Demonstration of the Strategic Toolbox(EN)

Thematic information

Tourism Agriculture and fisheries and forestry 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 (6)

Lead Partner: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare Marina "Grigore Antipa"

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 998572903

Partner’s ID if not PIC: RO1869096 | J2015001770131 | Register of Commerce number (EN)

Department: Chemical Oceanography and Marine Pollution

Address: Mamaia, 900581 Constața, Romania

Department address: Mamaia, 900581 Constanța, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.rmri.ro

Total budget: EUR 389 052.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 350 146.80

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 38 905.20

Türk Deniz Araştırmaları Vakfı

Name: Türk Deniz Araştırmaları Vakfı

Department: Not applicable

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 968751223

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 8760081839

Address: Yalikoy Mah. Fistikli Yali Sok. , 34820 Beykoz Istanbul, Turkey

Department address: Ylikoy Fistikli Yali Street, 34820 Beykoz Istanbul, Turkey

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: https://tudav.org/en/

Total budget: EUR 137 773.20

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 123 995.88

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 13 777.32

Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu (TÜBİTAK)

Name: Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu (TÜBİTAK)

Department: TUBITAK Marmara Research Center

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999587135

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 8730003484

Address: Ataturk Bulvari, 06100 Ankara, Turkey

Department address: Barış Mah. Dr. Zeki Acar Cad. Gebze, 41470 Kocaeli, Turkey

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://tubitak.gov.tr

Total budget: EUR 282 993.60

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 254 694.24

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 28 299.36

Український науковий центр екології моря

Name: Український науковий центр екології моря

Department: Not applicable

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 997786136

Partner’s ID if not PIC: not applicable | 02572516 | National State Registry of Ukrainian Enterprises and Organizations (EN)

Address: Frantsuzsky Blvd , 65009 Odessa, Ukraine

Department address: French Boulevard, 65009 Odessa, Ukraine

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.sea.gov.ua

Total budget: EUR 194 818.75

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 175 336.87

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 19 481.88

Институт по океанология, Българска академия на науките

Name: Институт по океанология, Българска академия на науките

Department: Institute of oceanology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999482569

Partner’s ID if not PIC: BG000080612

Address: Parvi may Str. , 9000 Varna, Bulgaria

Department address: Parvi may Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.io-bas.bg

Total budget: EUR 233 046.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 209 741.40

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 23 304.60

Organizația Ecologistă Neguvernamentală Mare Nostrum

Name: Organizația Ecologistă Neguvernamentală Mare Nostrum

Department: Not available

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 968769071

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 7015190 | No | No (EN)

Address: Tomis, 900647 Constanta, Romania

Department address: Tomis, 900647 Constanta, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.marenostrum.ro

Total budget: EUR 244 602.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 220 141.80

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 24 460.20

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Turkish Marine Research Foundation

Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Partners and Projects info

The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye

Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Partners and Projects info

UKRAINIAN SCIENTIFIC CENTRE OF ECOLOGY OF THE SEA

Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Partners and Projects info

Institute of oceanology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences

Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Partners and Projects info

Ecological Nonguvernamental Organization Mare Nostrum

Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Partners and Projects info

National Institute for Marine Research and Development "Grigore Antipa"

Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Project acronym: ANEMONE PLUS

Project ID: BSB00949

Project start date: 2025-09-16

Project end date: 2028-03-15

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

EU-funded programmes (EN) | ANEMONE PLUS complements the objectives of several Horizon Europe Framework Programme (HORIZON)-funded projects, such as "GES4SEAS," "OBAMA-NEXT," and "EMODNET," by enhancing marine environmental monitoring and promoting sustainable management of the Black Sea. "GES4SEAS" aims to achieve Good Environmental Status (GES) of marine waters by developing indicators and measures to assess and manage human impacts on marine ecosystems. ANEMONE PLUS aligns with this goal by providing advanced analytical and predictive tools to monitor biodiversity and pollution, ensuring the Black Sea meets GES criteria. "OBAMA-NEXT" focuses on ocean and biodiversity monitoring and assessment, creating innovative methods for tracking marine health. ANEMONE PLUS supports these efforts by integrating new monitoring technologies, such as underwater cameras and DNA barcoding, enhancing the capability to assess marine biodiversity and detect changes in ecosystem health. "EMODNET" provides access to comprehensive marine data, facilitating data sharing and collaboration among marine researcher. ANEMONE PLUS collaborates with BRIDGE and DOORS projects through engagement of both research and citizen science, along with awareness campaigns. The communities can contribute to the energy transition and the fight against climate change. ANEMONE PLUS defines concrete ways to achieve such a result through the practical toolkit and the piloting of some of the measures addressed and exposing it through awareness campaign (Black Sea Caravan).By aligning with these Horizon Europe projects, ANEMONE PLUS ensures synergies that amplify the impact of marine conservation initiatives, using shared knowledge and resources to achieve a healthier, more resilient Black Sea ecosystem. This coordinated approach not only maximizes the effectiveness of each project but also enhances a comprehensive and unified strategy for marine environmental protection and sustainable development. (EN), National and Regional Programmes (EN) | At the national and regional level, ANEMONE PLUS aligns with Romania’s National Strategy for Sustainable Development and the Black Sea Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Program. The project will work closely with the Ministry of Environment, Waters, and Forests, as well as the Black Sea Commission, to ensure that its activities support and enhance these broader strategic initiatives. This collaboration ensures that ANEMONE PLUS’s efforts are integrated into Romania's overarching goals for sustainable development, environmental protection, and marine ecosystem health. By synchronizing with these established programs, the project will contribute to a cohesive strategy that addresses environmental challenges in the Black Sea region. This approach not only maximizes the project’s impact but also ensures long-term sustainability and compliance with national and international environmental standards. The partnership with the Ministry and the Black Sea Commission will facilitate data sharing, policy development, and the implementation of best practices, enhancing a collaborative environment that benefits the region's marine and coastal ecosystems. (EN), Black Sea Commission (EN) | The ANEMONE PLUS project synergizes with the activities and work of the Permanent Secretariat of the Black Sea Commission, particularly in implementing the Bucharest Convention and the Black Sea Strategic Action Plan (BSAP). By aligning with the Annual Work Programs and coordinating with national and regional projects ANEMONE PLUS contributes to the collective efforts to restore and preserve the Black Sea environment. The project supports the reactivation of the Advisory Groups to the Black Sea Commission, which serve as key sources of expertise, information, and support for implementing the BSAP. These Advisory Groups, crucial for providing technical guidance and coordinating activities, had not been convened for over three years due to the war in Ukraine. By facilitating and supporting the meetings of these groups, ANEMONE PLUS ensures that expert consultations and collaborative efforts are revived, enhancing the effectiveness of environmental protection and rehabilitation initiatives. Additionally, the project's focus on developing advanced analytical tools and comprehensive guidelines complements the efforts of the Black Sea Advisory Groups. This collaboration not only revitalises essential expert groups but also reinforces the strategic objectives of the Black Sea Commission, contributing to a coordinated and impactful approach to marine environmental management in the region. (EN), Black Sea Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) (EN) | The ANEMONE PLUS project synergizes closely with the Black Sea Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) by aligning its objectives and activities with SRIA's implementation plan. ANEMONE PLUS aims to enhance regional cooperation, develop innovative research and solutions, and build critical support systems, echoing SRIA’s goals of increasing ecosystem resilience, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and promoting sustainable blue economy practices. A key aspect of this synergy is the focus on developing advanced analytical tools and integrated assessments to address eutrophication, contamination, and biodiversity changes in the Black Sea, directly contributing to SRIA’s Pillar 1 on addressing fundamental research challenges and Pillar 2 on developing innovations and solutions for sustainable economic growth. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 482 285.55

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 334 056.99

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:

SeaBasinStrategyBlackSea Project expected results can significantly contribute to CMA initiative by addressing regional challenges through a coordinated approach toward maritime and economic issues faced by Black Sea countries. A framework for regional dialogue will bring together countries and stakeholders to discuss and address Blue Economy opportunities. The CMA prioritizes a healthy environment alongside economic development in coastal regions and is complemented by its scientific pillar, the (SRIA), that provides valuable inputs for science-based decision-making. Project target two of the CMA main goals healthy ecosystems, and a competitive Blue Economy, using research knowledge to promote informed decisions and achieve long-term success. By aligning with CMA goals, project outputs can become a valuable tool for achieving the CMA's vision for a sustainable Black Sea.
EUStrategyDanubeRegion EUSDR promotes a sustainable development approach, a balance between development and environmental protection as well as the necessity to apply the environmental acquis Communautaire in line with EU 2020 vision and European Sustainable Development Strategy. Project activities can significantly contribute to EUSDR initiative that prioritizes sustainable development, by addressing shared environmental challenges faced by Danube and Black Sea countries and emphasizing economic benefits alongside environmental protection. In line with EUSDR encouragement of collaboration, the project will involve stakeholders from different Black Sea countries, fostering knowledge sharing and joint solutions. Project focus aligns with EU environmental regulations (acquis Communautaire). By aligning with these objectives, the project outputs can become a valuable tool for achieving the EUSDR's vision for a sustainable Danube Region.
Other The Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for the Black Sea (SRIA) Implementation Plan serves as a roadmap for Black Sea research and innovation, aiming to protect unique habitats and the overall health of the ecosystem. Project activities can contribute by focusing on sustainable practices or solutions that mitigate pollution or environmental threats and support Blue Economy Growth. Project aims at developing research partnerships and educational initiatives that build capacity and knowledge sharing in the Black Sea region. By aligning the project expected results with the goals outlined in the SRIA Implementation Plan, it will increase its relevance to the overall strategy for a healthier and more prosperous Black Sea. This can potentially lead to increased support and collaboration opportunities.
EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion The project activities could aim to learn from EUSAIR's approach to connecting people and institutions for regional cooperation through sharing the best practices for knowledge exchange programs and addressing common challenges. Even though geographically separate, the Black and Adriatic Seas share environmental concerns like pollution or sustainable maritime practices. The project outputs could contribute to joint solutions on these issues, aligning with EUSAIR's vision for a sustainable future, with a greener, low-carbon Europe. By highlighting these connections, a Black Sea project can show how it aligns with the spirit of EUSAIR, even if not directly operating within its region. This could foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two regions.

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:
RCO 115 - Public events across borders jointly organised, 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

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

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

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

2025-12-18

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

57 / 57 (100%)

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

257 / 257 (100%)

Notes on the data

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Assessing the Vulnerability of the Black Sea Marine Ecosystem to Human Pressures - Promoting Collaboration with Business, Governance, and Citizens for a Sustainable Blue Region

Description

Thematic information

Partners (6)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

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

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