Representatives of Greenpeace Bulgaria held a large-scale demonstration in the Black Sea, not far from the city of Burgas. Activists unfurled a massive banner with the message "GAS IS A SCAM." The Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise also took part in the action. The information was confirmed by Gabriela Garlanova, Head of Communications and Digital Engagement at Greenpeace Bulgaria. Through these actions, the environmental organization is issuing a stern warning against plans for future oil and natural gas extraction in Bulgarian waters.
"The demonstration is taking place against the backdrop of upcoming exploration for oil and gas extraction in the 'Khan Tervel' block within the Bulgarian exclusive economic zone," the organization stated. The corporations that will benefit from the concession have already been determined, and sonar mapping of the seabed is expected in the near future. According to Greenpeace Bulgaria, this initiative aims to refute the manipulative claims being imposed that fossil gas is a clean fuel and a source of revenue for the treasury, as well as the argument that its extraction from the Black Sea guarantees energy security and cheap energy.
Experts point out that opposition to the planned drilling is based both on economic considerations and the need to protect marine biodiversity. The environmental organization's position highlights specific arguments:
- The claim that domestic gas will bring cheap fuel is an illusion, as even if extraction occurs in our waters, prices will be determined by international exchanges, upon which we are already dependent.
- According to Greenpeace Bulgaria, the only real winner in this case will be the concessionaire managing the field.
Instead of committing to fossil fuels, Bulgaria has the potential to transform its energy system through decentralization and active civic participation, the organization notes. The alternative includes the implementation of renewable sources such as solar and wind, the utilization of waste heat, and the development of energy storage systems, including seasonal storage. "Bulgaria can implement such viable solutions immediately, instead of handing over the Black Sea to corporations that profit the most when everyone else pays the price," said Desislava Mikova, project lead for the Energy and Climate campaign at Greenpeace Bulgaria.