Since 2013, Bulgaria has made efforts to improve in its eco-innovation performance through the implementation of several Operational Programmes, including Strategy for smart specialization, initiatives on waste management and recycling, energy efficiency, environment, transport, science and education, and innovation and competitiveness.
The main challenges for eco-innovation in Bulgaria are related increasing domestic and foreign investment opportunities in eco-innovation and circular economy, promoting efficient use of resources by achieving high energy efficiency (especially in homes and building infrastructure), further developing renewable energy sources, and improving sustainability practices within the transport sector. Increased national investments from government and industry would significantly encourage more support for eco-innovation and circular economy initiatives. Furthermore, the legislative framework needs further improvement to encourage more investment in the sector.
Nonetheless, several significant drivers of eco-innovation exist, such as rise in awareness from both business, citizens and government on the benefits of green products and technologies, high skilled human resource and knowledge capital and Bulgaria’s leading regional position in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector .