Invitees included representatives from the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries of the European Commission, ministries, mayors of seaside municipalities, scientific institutions, environmental organisations, and tourism, as well as representatives of associations of fish processors and fisheries, producers of innovative and environmentally friendly plastic goods, waste recycling companies, the Executive Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture (EAFA), and managers of fishing harbours in order to achieve open dialogue and unite the efforts of the various sectors for a common cause. The round table involved several really interesting and dynamic discussions with an emphasis on the various aspects of pollution with plastic waste and on the key role which small-scale fisheries play in solving this pressing issue.

Click here to view the Final Report.

 
In support of the round table, artist and journalist Stoyan Radev presented an exhibition of oil paintings with the running theme of 'Small fisheries - a way of life, a way of making a living and a way of loving nature'; as a token of the general appreciation of his contribution, he was presented with a formal thank-you letter.
 
Although several invitees were prevented from taking part in the round table, BlSAC would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees who helped establish what we see as the beginning of productive discussion and future fruitful cooperation on a regional and international scale.
 
The following 31st May 2018  saw a meeting between working group 1: 'Fishing opportunities in protected marine areas' and 2: 'Sustainable fishing - equipment and resources' part of BlSAC, which was held at Aqua Hotel in Burgas with the purpose of analysing the forms filled in by participants at the round table on 30.05.2018 and formulating recommendations to the respective stakeholders.  The meeting resulted in the drafting of several constructive recommendations to municipalities, ministries, various industrial sectors and fishing associations which proposed measures regarding the prevention, collection, recycling and monitoring of plastic waste pollution.