“Blueing the Black Sea” Project Officially Launched in Istanbul to Tackle Marine Pollution and Advance Regional Cooperation

Istanbul, Türkiye.― The project, financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in close coordination with The World Bank, brings together governments, regional institutions, and civil society to deliver innovative solutions to reduce land-based pollution and support sustainable development in the Black Sea region.

As one of the most polluted seas in Europe, the Black Sea faces growing threats from untreated wastewater, agricultural runoff, marine litter, and industrial discharge. The “Blueing the Black Sea” Project (BBSEA) will address these challenges through regional coordination, improved governance, and investment in pollution-reducing technologies.

Over the course of its three-year implementation period, running through 2028, the project will work closely with national and regional actors, including in Ukraine, to support technical assistance, knowledge exchange, pipeline development for pollution-reduction investments, and the strengthening of institutional and regulatory frameworks.

An important component of the initiative is the launch of the Eco-Innovation Challenge, which will identify and support scalable, locally driven solutions for reducing marine pollution — from green startups to community-based innovations.

“This project represents a vital step toward reversing environmental decline in the Black Sea. By supporting countries to act collectively with innovative tools and shared knowledge, BBSEA creates the foundation for lasting impact,” said Cosmin Buteica, Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank.

“UNOPS is working closely with countries and partners to operationalize solutions that are technically sound, scalable, and regionally aligned. BBSEA is a platform for action — linking policy, innovation, and investment to reduce pollution and protect the Black Sea,” said Simonetta Siligato, Director of UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office.

The project provides targeted support to Georgia, Moldova, Türkiye, and Ukraine, helping the countries to strengthen their environmental management frameworks and implement practical, science-based responses to pollution. While the current focus is on these four countries, the project is designed as a regional platform, with the potential to extend support and foster collaboration with other Black Sea countries in future phases.

The BBSEA project reflects growing political will and shared regional commitment to protect one of Europe’s most ecologically and economically important marine ecosystems.

The event was kindly hosted by the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), a long-standing regional partner that has played a key role in facilitating dialogue, strengthening regional coordination, and laying the groundwork for the project's launch.

The total budget of the project is USD 6.39 million, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Press contact details

Ramona Lupu, Communications Manager at UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office ramonal@unops.org 

About UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office 

Since opening its Vienna office in 2019, UNOPS Austria Multi-Country Office (AUMCO) has served as a central management hub, effectively executing UNOPS mission across 12 countries in Austria, Albania, Kosovo, Türkiye, the South Caucasus and Central Asia. UNOPS has focused on promoting sustainable development, improving infrastructure, and fostering partnerships that empower communities throughout these regions. Read more: www.unops.org/austria