Description
The project addresses the need to raise awareness about the protection of forest ecosystems and their biodiversity. The project aims at raising awareness by presenting the benefits of controlled growing of paulownia trees for farming, beekeeping, construction, biomass and as an alternative to logging. First, research of the Bulgarian and international experience with paulownia plantations will be carried out. Second, at least 8 open discussions will be held with the stakeholders (local communities, authorities, institutions, NGOs, experts). Third, the paulownia alternative will be discussed with students from 5 schools and universities in Sofia City. Fourth, 60 students will take part in 2 afforestation volunteering initiative. Finally, 4 members of the applicant’s team will go on a study visit to Zagreb to exchange experience about paulownia plantations. The project will benefit the local communities, authorities, NGOs, students and the business.
Summary of project results
The project was necessary to draw the public and media attention to an alternative, indirect approach for the protection of forest ecosystems in Bulgaria. The project aimed at provoking an active dialogue about the status of natural forests in Bulgaria and parallel initiatives for gradual regeneration of forest lands with local species as well as opportunities for indirect mitigation of pressure on forests through growing alternative crops of fast-growing species such as Paulownia. In addition, the project aimed to show that NGOs can be successful mediators in the interaction between the state, businesses and local communities to solve this strategic problem of ecological balance. The project activities included the organization of a discussion on the benefits of growing Paulownia trees as an alternative source for: 1. legal logging and reduction of felling of natural forests; 2. the benefits for agriculture and beekeeping; 3.the use of plant biomass for biofuels, fodder, etc. 4. use in the construction and furniture industry. The topic stirred great interest in various stakeholders and communities to share their personal experience as well as investment interest by parties who do not belong to the agricultural sector. 6 meetings were held with farmers, the academia, NGOs and local communities; 2 afforestation of two areas with native species and Paulownia; 5 educational meetings with school and university students. A documentary was filmed (59 minutes): „Is there a future for Paulownia in Bulgaria?” and 4 teasers were created. The project team ensured that the audio-visual project outputs would continue to be aired. Also the team plans to follow up on the project and keep supporting the work of the NGO set up under the project that will protect the professional interests of farmers growing Paulownia.
Summary of bilateral results