site.btaFridtjof Nansen Institute of Oceanology in Varna to Have New Research Vessel from 2028

The Fridtjof Nansen Institute of Oceanology at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in Varna will have a new research vessel from 2028, Institute Director Prof. Valentina Todorova told BTA on Friday. She presented some of the latest projects at the Open Day, which the institute traditionally holds on October 31, International Black Sea Day. 

She pointed out that scientists from the institute are currently working on over 40 projects with European and national funding, tasked with studying and monitoring the water indicators in the Black Sea, as well as the overall state of the ecosystem and biodiversity. The largest project aims at construction of scientific infrastructure, with the institute scheduled to acquire a new research vessel to carry out sea expeditions and largely replace the Akademik, which is 40 years old already, Todorova noted.

The technical specifications for the new ship are to be prepared and a public procurement for its construction announced, the director added, stating that the vessel could become a reality by the end of 2027. She specified that the institute's project continues until 2029, and includes many other scientific tasks, including research into climate change, biodiversity and the ecosystem in the Black Sea, as well as improving the interaction between scientists and business.

"The Institute is currently equipping two STEM laboratories. Our main goal is to work with the younger generations, to increase their environmental literacy, and to ignite their interest in science," Todorova pointed out and specified that the institute has signed agreements with schools in Varna and students will be trained by scientists in various modules. "In addition to theory, they will also have practical classes. Several beds for growing plants have already been built in the institute's yard. The students will also work in the field along the coast. The laboratories will use modern, innovative educational equipment, including virtual reality", Todorova commented.

There are reports of climate change in the Black Sea basin, which are most visibly expressed in the disappearance of a cold intermediate water layer, Todorova stressed, noting that higher temperatures during summer months are not as serious a problem as the lack of sufficient cooling in winter, which leads to a decrease in oxygen in the water. However, the observations of scientists indicate that the changes are not apocalyptic, she emphasized, adding that it is believed that the Black Sea has warmed by a little over one degree Celsius over the past 25 years. The water level is also rising very slowly by about half a metre per 100 years, Todorova said.