Guidelines on Mainstreaming of Environmental Policy and Climate Change Policy into European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF)

Phase “Implementation of the Partnership Agreement and Programmes for the period 2014 – 2020” TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABBREVIATIONS AA Audit Authority AAQ Ambient Air Quality BD Biodiversity BDA Biological Diversity Act CA Compatibility Assessment CAP Common Agricultural Policy CCP Climate Change Policy CCU Central Coordination Unit CF Cohesion Fund CMD Council of Ministers Decree CoM Council of Ministers CP Cohesion Policy CSF Common Strategic Framework DCM Decision of Coincil of Ministers EAFRD European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development EC European Commission EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMFF European Maritime and Fisheries Fund EP Environmental Policy EPA Environmental Protection Act

2 ERDF European Regional Development Fund ESF European Social Fund ESIF European Structural and Investment Funds EU European Union FRMP Flood Risk Management Plan IT Information Technology IURDP Integrated Urban Regeneration and Development Plan MA Managing Authority MoEW Ministry of Environment and Water MoF Ministry of Finance MoI Ministry of Interior MP Management Plan N2000 Natura 2000 NAMRB National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria NPAF National Priority Action Framework for Natura 2000 NSI National Statistical Institute OPE Operational Programme Environment OPGG Operational Programme Good Governance OPIC Operational Programme Innovation and Competitiveness OPs Operational Programme (s) PA Protected Area PA Partnership Agreement RBMP River Basin Management Plan RE Resource Efficiency SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment SMEs Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises TO Thematic Objective UMIS Unified Management Information System WA Water Act WFD Water Framework Directive WMA Waste Management Act WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant

3 1. GROUNDS FOR MAINSTREAMING OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY Article 11 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides the legal basis for mainstreaming the environmental policy, as it identifies environmental protection policy as a horizontal policy to be taken into account in the definition and implementation of other policies, in particular, with a view to promoting sustainable development. The European Union's overall budget for 2014-2020 is aimed at achieving the objectives set in the Europe 2020 Strategy relating to smart, inclusive and sustainable growth. The need to mainstream environmental policy (EP) and climate change policy (CCP) into other sectoral policies is a basic starting point and an emphasis for the 2014-2020 programming period. Article 8 of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council, hereinafter referred to as Common Provisions Regulation, sets out that the objectives of the ESI Funds must be pursued in line with the principle of sustainable development and with the Union's promotion of the aim of preserving, protecting and improving the quality of the environment (as set out in Article 11 TFEU), taking into account the “polluter pays” principle. Member States and the Commission should ensure that the preparation and implementation of the Partnership Agreements and the programmes encourage environmental protection, resource efficiency, climate change mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity conservation, natural disasters resilience as well as risk prevention and management. Article 50 (4) of the Common Provisions Regulation sets out that in the Annual Implementation Report to be submitted in 2017, Member States will have to assess and report on how activities are implemented in the programmes designed to meet the requirements of Article 8 of this Regulation. Today's understanding and analysis of environmental challenges is constantly evolving. The requirement not to consider them as 'synonymous' and isolated issues is becoming increasingly

4 important. An integrated approach is needed through the analysis of multiple correlations and causal relationships and influences between all socio-economic sectors and environmental components. This approach represents the basis of all strategic and legislative documents at EU level, including the Europe 2020 Strategy and the Resource-Efficient Europe - Flagship initiative and the Roadmap to a Resource-Efficient Europe, the EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2020, the EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change, Technical Guidance on Integrating Climate Change Adaptation in Programmes and Investments of Cohesion Policy and Regulations on ESIF Management for the 2014 - 2020 period. The main strategic document at EU level regulating the application of the principle of sustainable development is the Sustainable Development Strategy, adopted in 2006, which sets the EU's general objectives relating to climate change and clean energy, sustainable transport, production and consumption and better management of natural resources.

2. MAINSTREAMING OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY - PROGRAMMING PHASE To meet the legal requirements, at the beginning of 2012, the Ministry of Environment and Water (MoEW) initiated and coordinated the development of Guidelines on Mainstreaming of Environmental Policy and Climate Change Policy in CP, CAP and CFP Funds 2014 - 2020 - Phase: Programming of the Common Strategic Framework Funds. The document was approved by the Council of Ministers (CoM) of the Republic of Bulgaria on 1 March 2013. The guidelines are an important starting point for the planning of interventions in the field of environment and climate change in the course of development of programmes co-financed by ESIF in 2014-2020. The proposed priority interventions are aimed at better water management, greater efficiency and deal with the consequences on water from climate change, better waste management according to the hierarchy management and to achieve higher efficiency of this resource, energy efficiency and renewable energy, improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting and restoring biodiversity, including the Natura 2000 network. The inclusion of the measures identified in the scope of the programmes co-financed by the ESIF is an essential tool to mainstream environmental requirements and to achieve sustainable development. The aim is to improve the coherence and effectiveness and to achieve its full effect (synergy) during the planning stage. The guidelines on mainstreaming of EP and CCP find their adequate inclusion in the Partnership Agreement (PA) of the Republic of Bulgaria, outlining the ESIF support for the 2014-2020 period. On the one hand, they have been taken into account when describing the demarcation and complementarity of the measures with immediate environmental effect. They also contribute to the fulfilment of the requirements for targeted funding relevant to EP and CCP. The Common Provisions Regulation obliges Member States to provide information on the support relating to climate change, in line with the ambition to allocate at least 20% of the EU budget for this purpose. The ERDF Regulation requires at least 50% of national resources of the fund to be used to finance activities aimed

5 at achieving two or more of thematic objectives (TO) 1, 2, 3 and 41, and at least 12% - for activities aimed at achieving the TO 4. The application of the guidelines for the programming phase was monitored by representatives of the Managing Authority (MA) of the OP Environment in all working groups developing the operational programmes for 2014 – 2020 period. The allocation of measures by sector was discussed at several meetings with stakeholders in order to achieve the most effective implementation and to ensure synergy between measures. All in all, the proposed interventions were included in programmes and the effective absorption of the allocated financial resources is of key importance to achieving the objectives. All available opportunities to mainstream EP and CCP, as described below, were used at the programming phase. The mainstreaming initiative was taken into account by both the programmes' MA and by the competent authority referred to in Article 84 of the Environmental Protection Act (EPA), reflecting it in the development and evaluation of the options covered by the Strategic Environmental Assessment Reports (SEA). The communication between the competent authorities in charge of the SEA and the institutions that coordinate the preparation of the programmes has improved significantly. Written instructions were sent and meetings with representatives of all MA and the Central Coordination Unit (CCU) were held in the administration of CoM. As a result, the SEA conducted within the ex-ante evaluation of the programmes was used successfully as a tool to mainstream EP and CCP. For the most of the programmes, in particular the OP Environment, the OP Transport and Transport Infrastructure, the OP Regions in Growth, the OP Innovation and Competitiveness, the Rural Development Programme and the Programme for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries for the period 2014- 2020, the Minister of Environment and Water has issued SEA Opinions, approving the relevant programmes. As regards the OP Science and Education for Smart Growth, the SEA procedure was completed only by a Decision which confirms that no environmental assessment is to be carried out on the OP. All issued SEA opinions for the programmes include measures which should be consistent both at the planning phase and the programme implementation phase. The measures are as follows:  Measures and conditions to prevent, reduce or eliminate as much as possible potential adverse impacts, divided into two subgroups: - Measures to be included in the final version of the programme; - Measures to be undertaken in the implementation of the programme;  Measures to monitor and control the impact on the environment and human health of the programme implementation. Along with the SEA procedure, there were procedures to assess the compatibility with the scope and purpose of conservation of protected areas in the Natura 2000 network in accordance with the

1 TO 1 - Strengthening research, technological development and innovation; TO 2 - Enhancing access to, and use and quality of, ICT; TO 3 - Enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs; TO 4 - Supporting the shift towards a low-carbon economy in all sectors. 6 Ordinance laying down the conditions and procedure for assessment of the compatibility of plans, programmes, projects and investment proposals with the scope and goals of conservation of protected areas which ensure taking into account priority species and habitats subject to conservation in Natura 2000. One of the horizontal ex-ante conditionalities to obtain funding for the 2014 - 2020 programming period was related to the existence of arrangements for the effective application of Union environmental legislation related to EIA and SEA. Measures to achieve that condition are underway. In view of this, the mainstreaming of EP and CCP into the preparation of the programmes is ensured also by SEA procedures, including the issuance of SEA Opinion/Decision by the competent environmental authority. Annex 2 includes measures set in SEA opinions relevant to the respective priority axis and/or investment priorities of the programmes. The reporting on the practical implementation of the EIA and SEA procedures, whereby Bulgaria carries out also the mandatory compatibility assessment (CA) procedures, in the procedures for project proposals, as well as compliance with the conditions laid down by EIA/SEA administrative acts and/or the CA is one of the essential criteria in Annex 2, which is relevant to all programmes. The Ministry of Environment and Water coordinates and/or participates actively in the preparation of strategic documents required to meet various ex-ante conditionalities (both in fulfilling the ex-ante conditionalities for TO 5 and TO 62 and in contributing to major documents at national level relevant to other TO, e.g. Innovation strategy for smart specialisation of the Republic of Bulgaria for the 2014 - 2020 period). The participation of representatives of the MoEW ensures compliance of the priorities and measures with EP and CCP.

3. MAINSTREAMING OF ENVIRONMANTAL POLICY AND CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY - IMPLEMENTATION PHASE The guidelines for the programming phase, and the text of PA provide for the development of guidelines for the implementation phase. This measure is set also by the 2015 Action Plan with the measures stemming from Bulgaria's membership in the European Union in the framework of Working Group 19 Regional policy and coordination of structural instruments. The present Guidelines on Mainstreaming of Environmental Policy and Climate Change Policy into European Structural and Investment Funds - Phase “Implementation of the Partnership Agreement and Programmes for the period 2014 – 2020” is the second phase of the mainstreaming initiative. Along with the measures identified in the guidelines for the first phase which directly contribute to the implementation of environmental commitments and addressing challenges, the mainstreaming of EP and CCP requires in-depth analysis, including identification of indirect connections and influences. First, it is necessary to ensure that all specific projects under the programmes have been approved and implemented, provided that they meet the requirements of environmental legislation. In certain cases it

2 TO 5 - Promoting climate change adaptation, risk prevention and management; TO 6 - Preserving and protecting the environment and promoting resource efficiency;

7 is appropriate to set higher requirements for the provision of EU funds for specific projects, in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and resource efficiency. This will contribute to striking a balance between economic, social and environmental benefits and to promoting environmental awareness and behaviour. Mainstreaming the environment into other policy areas is a long-term challenge which implies review and adaptation of new requirements and performance based on experience. In the 2007-2013 programming period, the principle of sustainable development in the implementation of programmes and projects applies by meeting the requirements of the effective legislation in relation to the EIA of investment proposals and SEA of plans and programmes, as well as CA with Natura 2000. However, there are cases in which at the stage of project approval, coordination documents issued pursuant to the environmental legislation are not required. In some cases, certain calls for providing financing involve also prioritisation criteria related to the impact on ecosystems, the environment and natural resources. In most cases, however, these criteria are very broadly formulated and EP and CCP experts are not always involved in the evaluation. All this leads to somewhat formalistic approach to the application of the environmental principles. This approach must be abandoned by defining clear, concrete and quantifiable environmental criteria in the development of calls for the selection/evaluation of project proposals and by creating mechanisms for the coordination of all subsequent stages of the project cycle - assessment, regular and ex-post monitoring. With regard to Natura 2000, the European Commission (EC) adopted a new approach of funding in the 2014-2020 period, namely by introducing a mandatory requirement for Member States to develop national priority action frameworks for Natura 2000 (NPAF). The NPAF aims to identify priorities and appropriate measures in respect of Natura 2000 protected areas and to ensure their integration into other national policies and instruments for their financing, including programmes for 2014-2020. Achieving the objectives of NPAF requires good coordination between various financial sources, financing activities under Natura 2000. The document has been officially sent to the EC and used in the review and approval of the programmes for the period 2014-2020 and in respect of the projects submitted for funding under the Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE). During the drafting of the Guidelines on Mainstreaming of Environmental Policy and Climate Change Policy into European Structural and Investment Funds - Phase “Implementation of the Partnership Agreement and Programmes for the period 2014 – 2020” the principle of partnership, including the involvement of the relevant stakeholders, was observed. In addition, the emphasis should be laid on the principles of sustainable development and resource efficiency by encouraging projects requiring less investment and operating costs and contributing to the opening of new jobs, the development of sustainable economic activities, etc.

4. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED RESULTS The main purpose of this document is as a second phase of the process of mainstreaming EP and CCP to ensure the compliance with the legislative requirements and to encourage selection of projects which contribute as much as possible to environmental protection. This assists the MAs of the

8 programmes co-financed by ESIF in the process of putting into practice the principles of sustainable development and resource efficiency. The document is not intended to provide ready-made solutions; instead, it suggests possible mechanisms for mainstreaming EP and CCP into the implementation of programmes and projects. In principle, the guidelines include proposals for specific criteria for programmes/priority axes/investment priorities, aiming to help the MAs to better fulfil their obligations arising from current EU and national legislation. Their aim is to inform beneficiaries as early as possible of the legislative requirements their project proposals must meet, thus will be saved time and unnesessary return for completion and/or issue of additional documents. In view of the strategic importance of the ESIF support for Bulgaria, the application of the guidelines should contribute to the transition from concrete solutions towards a comprehensive approach to addressing environmental challenges.

5. TARGET GROUPS The Guidelines are addressed primarily to the MAs responsible for the sound financial management of programmes co-financed by ESIF in the 2014 - 2020 period, in line with basic environmental principles, they should be used also in procedures for selection of a contractor prepared by beneficiaries within the next stage of absorption of funds. Council of Ministers Decisions № 19/2013, № 57/2013 and № 595/2013 on amending and addending Council of Ministers Decision No 328/2012 approving a list of thematic objectives to be included in the Partnership Agreement of the Republic of Bulgaria for the 2014 - 2020 programming period, a list of programmes and a managing authority for the development of each programme, added to the list of operational programmes respectively OP Science and Education for Smart Growth 2014-2020, whose responsible authority is the Ministry of Education and Science and the OP Good Governance 2014 – 2020 whose responsible authority is the Council of Ministers administration. Following the dialogue with the competent institutions, they were actively involved in the initiative to mainstream EP and CCP, given its strategic importance and the serious potential of programmes in the field of environmental education and training, and building modern resource efficient administrative practices. In view of the envisaged mechanisms, the guidelines for mainstreaming EP and CCP will be beneficial for all experts involved in the selection/ evaluation of project proposals, as well as for applicants in calls for funding under these programmes, represented by central, and municipal governments and other state institutions and organisations, enterprises and NGOs. It is advisable to bring them to the attention to consultants who develop projects for EU funding and contractors under approved projects.

6. MECHANISMS FOR COORDINATION OF THE MAINSTREAMING OF ENVIRONMANTAL POLICY AND CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY The partnership principle remains one of the fundamental principles governing the allocation of ESIF funding in 2014 - 2020 programming period, setting the requirement to develop programmes and projects with the involvement of the relevant stakeholders, including regional and local authorities, 9 socio-economic partners, community organisations and others. The Common Provisions Regulation for the 2014 - 2020 period states that partners be involved in each stage of the programming cycle. The partnership principle is essential and its application is encouraged in addressing cross-sectoral issues related to environmental protection and climate change adaptation. Applying the principle of partnership requires involvement and coordination of all responsible institutions. In this respect, the process of developing the Guidelines is taking place in cooperation with the competent state institutions responsible for the management and implementation of programmes co-financed by the ESIF. The success of the process of mainstreaming EP and CCP depends on the effective monitoring of the implementation stage of the 2014-2020 programmes. The implementation of EP and CCP requires strict coordination and active support of all stakeholders. The coordination and monitoring of the implementation of these policies should stick to a horizontal approach across all programmes co- funded by the ESIF. At the EU level there is an European Network of Environmental Authorities - Managing Authorities (ENEA-MA), co-chaired by Directorate General Environment in close cooperation with the Directorate General Regional and Urban Policy of the EC. The Network consists of the competent authorities in the field of the environment and MAs of the programmes co-financed by ESIF, as well as representatives of NGOs at EU level. The network aims to help Member States in mainstreaming the issues related to the environment and sustainable development into the Cohesion Policy. Such networks operate also at national level. In some Member States such as Italy, Poland, Spain and Greece, the role of the network is to improve the mainstreaming of environmental issues, the development and implementation of sectoral programmes and policies and to ensure coherence of all actions with regard to environmental policy and EU legislation.

7. PROPOSED CRITERIA FOR MAINSTREAMING OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY To ensure the success of the process, the mainstreaming of EP and CCP should be featured from the development phase of the calls for proposals through the inclusion of appropriate criteria for EP and CCP and through adequate weighting/ points attached to the criteria with higher requirements of the relevant MA. The main challenge is to define specific, reasonable and balanced criteria to ensure compliance with the mandatory environmental aspects of the projects - to give priority to projects of stronger contribution to the implementation of EP and CCP in line with the objectives and specificity of appropriate calls to provide funding. The criteria should be simple and clearly defined to enable comparability and objective evaluation. They are expected to contribute to the implementation of the principle of sustainable development in project implementation. To establish links and coordination between various sectors and the environmental sector, an analysis of existing legal and strategic documents in the field of EP and CCP was carried out.

10 For the purposes of developing the criteria an analysis of the potential of each programme to meet the requirements of the EP and CCP was also carried out. Direct and indirect links between thematic objectives of the priority axes and investment priorities thereof were also indicated, on the one hand and individual sectors/ policies relating to the environment and climate change, on the other. In this outlining process applied a comprehensive approach, and the goal was to achieve a balance between the main sectoral priorities in the relevant programme and the needs to mainstream EP and CCP. Some of the criteria are general and apply to more than one programme/ priority / activity. In other cases, the criteria are specific. When EP and CCP are mainstreamed directly into the relevant priority/ activity, no criteria are defined. The above approach served as a basis to draw up a list of criteria (Annex 1 and Annex 2) providing an opportunity for effective implementation of key activities of environmental policy and climate change. All proposed criteria for approving project proposals have been developed taking into account existing legislation on nature conservation, waste management, air and climate change, preventive activity (EIA/SEA) and harmful physical factors (noise) given specific requirements in each sector. In addition, relevant measures and conditions are put in place as laid down in the course of the SEA procedure and SEA opinion of the Minister of Environment and Water. Annex 1 sets out the criteria applicable to all programmes and groups of activities. These general criteria, where applicable, should be specified further if necessary in the application guidelines, in view of the specificity of each programme, including priority axes and investment priorities. Annex 2 presents programme-specific criteria for the priority axes and investment priorities, where applicable. They are divided into two main groups as follows:

 Criteria laid down in legal requirements - resulting mainly from mandatory requirements under the effective legislation applicable to EP and CCP and in case of non-compliance, project proposals should not be approved: - in competitive calls for proposals for granting award or provision of financial instruments - these should be included as eligibility criteria; - in case of direct grant award procedures or financial instruments - these should be included as mandatory requirements. - in procedures for direct grant award procedures - can be included as mandatory for the procedure or terms or conditions to the projects themselves.

 Criteria setting higher requirements - they give priority to project proposals which contribute to EP and CCP to a higher degree. When assessing the compliance with these criteria, the specificities of the particular activity, regional specificities, etc. should be taken into account: - in competitive calls for proposals for granting award - these can be included as criteria for technical and financial evaluation; - in case of direct grant award procedures - these can be included as mandatory requirements for the respective procedure, either as terms or conditions to the projects themselves.

11 The proposed criteria laid down in the legal requirements are mandatory in accordance with the effective EU and national law in the field of the environment. The major purpose of this type of criteria is to guarantee the fulfilment of the legal requirements, thus helping the MAs and beneficiaries in the application and respecting the main environmental principles. The measures and conditions set out in the SEA opinion of the Minister of Environment and Water should complement rather than repeal the obligations arising from the environmental law. In this respect, it should be noted that the projects should be compliant on the one hand with the measures set out in the SEA opinion, and on the other - with the legal requirements. The criteria have been developed in line with the guiding principles and requirements in the 2014-2020 programming period, including result orientation, simplification and unification of rules, reduction of the administrative burden. Many of the proposed criteria, which set higher requirements are based on requirements set out in strategic documents for achieving EP and/or CCP objectives, within Bulgaria's commitments. The selection of an appropriate criterion by programmes' MA requires a thorough analysis on the applicability of criteria to the particular call for proposal. When applying criteria setting higher requirements, it is essential for the MA to define appropriate weight for the purposes of project evaluation. A flexible, optimal and reasonable approach is necessary in determining the weight of the criterion and its ranking in the context of a whole list of criteria for the specific call, and also the requirements for prioritization of projects in respect of the environment arising from coordination of documents should be taken into account (e.g. the SEA opinion on the relevant programme). The defined criteria setting higher requirements should not limit economic efficiency. In this regard a balanced response to a number of interrelated issues should be found: such as how environmental commitment will affect financial stability, what will be the interest in the relevant call for proposals, etc. These criteria are expected to be included in the specific calls for the programmes in compliance with the principle of proportionality, i.e. according to their scope. They may be introduced as a subcriteria that represent alternative options for evaluating the environmental compliance of individual projects. Where applicable, the MAs may include in the application guidelines for any call for selection of project proposals the requirements for applicants and/or project proposals in line with legal requirements set out in the Guidelines on mainstreaming of EP and CCP. Regardless of the ambition to define specific criteria in a number of cases, it is objectively impossible to cover all aspects and details of the planned financing activities. Therefore, the most appropriate approach is the criteria to be analized and specified at the stage of development of the relevant call for granting award and if applicable, the criteria to be laid down at the stage of project application or their implementation. The application of the criteria laid down will not be aimed at providing a greater amount of co-funding for environmental projects, it would rather give priority to those during the evaluation of the project proposals. In this sense, the selection of more environmentally friendly projects is not related to the amount of co-financing.

12 The criteria set in respect of Natura 2000 and the conservation of biodiversity are directly related to the NPAF measures. Therefore, where NPAF measures have been included in grant award calls, the MA should set the relevant indicators to follow up their implementation (Annex 4 of NPAF, http://www.moew.government.bg/?show=top&cid=568). This will facilitate the reporting on the progress by beneficiaries to the MA, from the MA to the NPAF competent authority and from the NPAF competent authority to the EC.

8. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS/ GUIDELINES TO THE MAS OF THE PROGRAMMES CO-FINANCED BY THE ESIF During various phases of the mainstreaming process additional documents will need to be drawn up. In respect of the targeted financing provided for in the regulations, following the adoption of the relevant methodologies with delegated or implementing acts, additional clarifying documents can be drawn up at national level, including indications, instructions, etc. for future tracking of expenditure on energy efficiency, resource efficiency, share of renewable energy sources, climate change and biodiversity (tracking). The measures for development of core documents for ecosystem services set out in OP Environment 2014-2020 will also have a horizontal effect. Other instructions can also be drawn up, according to emerging needs, for example specific measures such as eco-innovation. To identify them, feedback, questions and discussions in the framework of the mechanism tracking the implementation of the Guidelines on EP and CCP will be particularly useful. The second phase of the Guidelines on mainstreaming of EP and CCP targets projects subject to evaluation under the rules of the 2014-2020 programming period and does not apply to projects that have already passed the evaluation stage.

ANNEX 1 - COMMON CRITERIA FOR PROGRAMMES CO-FINANCED BY ESIF IN 2014-2020 PERIOD

CRITERION NOTE

The project involves green procurement in accordance with the Criterion which sets higher provisions of the Public Procurement Act (Article 26, Paragraph requirements and is applicable 1, Article 28a, Paragraph 1, рoint 2; Article 30, Paragraph 1, point to all operational programmes. 2 and Paragraph 3; Article 37, Paragraph 1; Article 51, Paragraph 1, point 11; Article 53, Paragraphs 2 and 4) and in accordance with criteria for environmentally friendly to individual product groups, developed and published by the European Commission: (http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/eu_gpp_criteria_en.htm), or equivalents thereof. The competent authority determined for the project proposal an applicable procedure under Chapter VI and VII of the EPA, and/or Article 31 of BDA and the letter from the competent authority is enclosed.

13 A procedure was carried out under Chapter VI and VII of the EPA, and/or Article 31 of the BDA and the applicant has enclosed a copy of the relevant final administrative acts (SEA/EIA/CA, integrated permit, where an EIA decision/a decision on screening the need of an EIA has not confirmed the application of best available techniques). The project proposal corresponds to the description of the investment proposal and complies with the conditions and measures in this act. Where the procedures set out in Chapter VI of EPA and/or Article 31 of the BDA are not necessary: - The applicant provides an eligibility opinion in respect of River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) under the Water Act (WA); - The project complies with the Flood Risk Management Plans (FRMPs) requirements and prohibitions and restrictions for protection from adverse impacts set out in the WA. Permits have been presented under the WA - for water abstraction, water use and discharges relevant to project activities. w The activities included in the project are planned as measures in the existing RBMPs or at FRMPs and the Marine Strategy to Achieve Good Status of the Black Sea. er

w The project provides for the waste generated during its implementation to be managed in as accordance with national waste legislation, including reuse, recycling and recovery te (compliance with the waste management hierarchy).

N 2 0 0 The project takes into account the National Environmental Network, including management 0 plans of protected areas (PAs), action plans for species, NPAF and the EU Biodiversity a Strategy to 2020. n d B D

cl i m The project contributes to the resilience to climate change and/or reduction of greenhouse gas at emissions and efficient use of resources. e/ R E

14 ANNEX 2 - SPECIFIC CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF PROJECT PROPOSALS UNDER PROGRAMMES CO-FINANCED BY ESIF IN 2014-2020 PERIOD

OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME ENVIRONMENT 2014-2020

SE C T O R NOTES/ / CRITERIA P RECOMMENDATIONS O LI C Y PRIORITY AXIS № 1 WATER Investment Priority c (ii) to TO 6 (CF): Investing in the water sector to meet the requirements of the Union’s environmental acquis and to address needs, identified by the Member States, for investment that goes beyond those requirements. 1. Construction of WSS infrastructure in accordance with the RBMPs and the regional master plans and based on RFS. Criteria laid down in legal requirements wa The agglomeration is on the list of those with more than 10,000 PE in the final report on the ter implementation of the requirements of Directive 91/271/EEC concerning urban wastewater treatment and recent data on the status of water bodies. The supported beneficiary fulfils the requirements related to cost recovery for water services; it does not owe fees for water abstraction, water body use or pollution. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. The project ensures the sustainability of the investment. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) requires the assessment of the sustainability of the investment, and effectiveness and affordability are calculated cumulatively for all existing and planned costs of the operator. Project activities for the agglomeration comply with Article 125(1), Article 125a and Article 127 of the WA and achieve the objectives set in the discharge permit. The project envisages the construction of a continuous automated system for monitoring of To provide data on actual treated wastewater based on indicators specified in the permit for discharge at the exit of the pollutant load, respectively the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). application of the "polluter pays" principle and water management objectives of the WFD. The project envisages measures to improve the water supply system. If the project is located in an area of detected drought or shortage of water and/or the water system is located in a water supply area where quality has failed to meet for long time the requirements of Ordinance № 9 on the quality of water intended for drinking purposes. After the project has been implemented in the agglomeration, there will be a minimum rate of 98% wastewater collection, a minimum rate of 99% wastewater treatment and no more than 2 000 PE load which is uncollected or untreated in accordance with Directive 91/271/EEC. The project activities are performed in compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June At infrastructure construction 2005 on the limit emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) released in the atmosphere stage. by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the If the EIA procedure is air emissions of particulate pollutants. completed, control will be carried out under the conditions in the EIA decision. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. Project activities contribute to fulfilling the objectives of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region. Only for projects in the relevant wa areas. ter The project involves measures to reduce pollution from rain overflows. In projects for the construction of a mixed sewerage network. wa The design provides for utilization of WWTP sludge: Solutions for the utilization of ste - anaerobic treatment, composting and/or compost production as required by the Ordinance WWTP sludge will be required concerning bio-waste treatment; during the evaluation of projects - drying sludge in order to facilitate transport to a plant for further treatment; for WWTP - thermal treatment with energy recovery and other eligible methods; construction/rehabilitation. - direct disposal in soil for agricultural purposes as required by the Ordinance setting out the procedure for recovery of wastewater treatment sludge, use for reclamation purposes; - The project does not provide for sludge disposal, which is in line with the waste hierarchy set out in the Waste Framework Directive. N2 The project aims at reducing anthropogenic water pollution in wetlands. According to Measure 22 of the 00 NPAF. 0 an d B D The project provides for sludge treatment, which can be transformed into a useful resource as follows: - anaerobic degradation with biogas generation, which is part of the technology of the treatment cli plant; m - co-generation of biogas with production of electricity and/or heat; at - mixed combustion or monoincineration for recovery of energy. e/ The project envisages measures for energy and resource efficiency. The criterion is included in the R SEA Opinion on OP Environment E 2014-2020. The project envisages measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to help climate change adaptation and the resilience of infrastructure to disasters. The project enables the limiting of soil sealing outside urban areas when determining the sites. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on OP Environment 2014-2020. soil The project envisages recultivation of damaged areas affected during construction. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on OP Environment 2014-2020. The project provides for appropriate measures to reduce noise (organizational, urban planning, The criterion is included in the no works - acoustic), in stages: design, construction and operation. SEA Opinion on OP Environment ise 2014-2020. 2. Extension of the water monitoring systems 2.1 Monitoring of the quantitative water status. 2.2 Water Quality Monitoring. Criteria laid down in legal requirements wa The project envisages completion or equipment of water monitoring networks justified and For projects related to ter planned in the relevant RBMP. construction of monitoring networks. The project envisages purchase of measurement tools to ensure implementation of water monitoring planned in the relevant RBMP. For the construction of monitoring sites and stations, materials not affecting water composition and features are to be provided. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. cli The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of m infrastructure to disasters. at e 3. Development of new and/or update of existing strategic documents for the implementation of the Water Framework Directive and the Marine strategy framework directive Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project fulfils in a comprehensive way the requirements related to the assessment of pressure, For projects related to the conduct impact, risk, monitoring on specific elements determining the water status (ecological, chemical, of studies, characterization and quantitative). definition of the water status. The project offers economic analyzes, justifications and assessments. For projects related to the implementation of economic wa instruments relevant to the ter development of the RBMP. The project offers justification of measures to improve and maintain good water status. For projects related to the development of the RBMP. The project enables the integration of sectoral policies in the water sector in terms of water management. PRIORITY AXIS № 2 WASTE Investment priority (a) to TO 6 (ERDF): Investing in the waste sector to meet the requirements of the Union’s environmental acquis and to address needs, identified by the Member States, for investment that goes beyond those requirements. Measures for improving the municipal waste management in accordance with the waste management hierarchy and in order to comply with legislative requirements. –Design and construction of centers for re-use, repair and preparation for re-use, including delivery of facilities and equipment for the activity; –Design and construction of installations for preliminary treatment of municipal waste; –Delivery of necessary equipment and facilities, as well as equipment for separate collection of biodegradable and green waste; –Design and construction of anaerobic and/or composting installations for separately collected biodegradable and/or green waste; –Design and construction of installation for waste recovery – Third phase of integrated Sofia Municipality’s project for municipal waste treatment facilities for Sofia; –Design and construction of adjoining infrastructure to the above listed installations (e.g. power supply, road, water supply) serving only the sites/installations; –Implementation of demonstration/pilot projects for collecting, synthesising, disseminating and implementing new, non-traditional successful waste management interventions, good practices and management approaches in field of waste as well as introduction of novel technologies, as well as organisation of information campaigns focused on the waste prevention and the formation of “zero waste” society; Criteria laid down in legal requirements

wa Project activities within the scope of the priority areas of activities envisaged in the National ste Waste Management Plan. The project activities are performed in compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June At infrastructure construction 2005 on the limit emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) released in the atmosphere stage. If the EIA procedure is air by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the completed, control will be carried emissions of particulate pollutants. out under the conditions in the EIA decision. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. wa The project envisages introduction of water-saving technologies and equipment and purification ter of the generated waste water (if any). The final results of the activities envisaged in the project in quantitative and qualitative terms provide higher contribution to the achievement of the national goals in accordance with Article 31, Article 32 and Article 33 of the Waste Management Act (WMA), taking into account: – specific needs in waste management at regional level, including waste quantities, types and wa number of species; ste – specific needs in waste management at municipal level, including waste quantities, types and number of species; – application of best available techniques; – number of population covered. N2 The project serves localities near or in protected areas of the Natura 2000 network subject to the According to Measure 6 of the 00 hierarchy of waste management. NPAF. 0 an d B D cli The project envisages measures for energy and resource efficiency The criterion is included in the m SEA Opinion on OP Environment at 2014-2020. e/ The project envisages measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to help climate change R adaptation and the resilience of infrastructure to disasters. E The project provides for appropriate measures to reduce noise (organizational, urban planning, The criterion is included in the no works - acoustic), in stages: design, construction and operation. SEA Opinion on OP Environment ise 2014-2020. PRIORITY AXIS № 3 NATURA 2000 AND BIODIVERSITY Investment Priority (d) to TO 6 (ERDF): Protecting and restoring biodiversity and soil and promoting ecosystem services, including through Natura 2000, and green infrastructures.  Development and implementation of management approach for Natura 2000 sites and improvement of Natura 2000 management capacity (m 25, m 26, m 82, m 102 from NPAF);  Investments for maintenance and improvement of Natura 2000 species and natural habitats conservation status (m 22, m 43, m 96, m 97, m 98, m 99, m 109 from NPAF)  Identifying and complementing the establishment of Natura 2000. Analyses and research of species and natural habitats subject to reporting under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive and Article 12 of the Birds Directive in the marine and coastal areas and the terrestrial part of the country (m 1, m 2, m 62, m 63 from NPAF);  Preparation/update/harmonisation of management plans for Natura 2000 sites, action plans and other strategic documents (m 16, m 20 from NPAF);  Support for development and management of ecosystem services (m 17 from NPAF);  Development and maintenance of shared vision for Natura 2000 network in Bulgaria (m 15, m 32, m 33, m 34, m 35, m 74, m 75, m 76 from NPAF);  Technical assistance to support the management of NPAF and NICS (36 m, 64 m of the NPAF); Criteria laid down in legal requirements The project involves setting requirements for the quantity and quality of water needed to achieve wa favourable conservation status of the relevant area. ter Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. cli The project envisages measures for climate change adaptation. m at e PRIORITY AXIS № 4 FLOOD AND LANDSLIDES RISK PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT Investment Priority b (ii) to TO 5 (CF): Promoting investment to address specific risks, ensuring disaster resilience and developing disaster management systems. 1. Flood risk prevention and management measures 1.1 Establishment of National Real Time Water Management System (NRTWMS) Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project offers an upgrade of existing water monitoring and management and flood and wa drought warning systems, and their warranty service. ter The project provides for the use of innovative measurement, assessments and communication tools in the implementation of the real-time water management system. cli The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of m infrastructure to disasters. at e 1.2. Measures related to flood risk prevention and management solutions, including ecosystem-based approach. - Activities on restoration of floodplains; - Activities related to the improvement of water retentions; - Activities related to biological fortification of the banks; - Activities related to risk prevention in urban areas - design and construction/strengthening/rehabilitation/liquidation of protection infrastructure and/or water retention facilities and/or hydro-technical solutions. These criteria are not applicable Criteria setting higher requirements to direct award calls for proposals. The project envisages a facility to ensure protection and reduce the risk of flooding not only for Where the building of protective wa the locality, but also for other areas located downstream. facilities against flooding is ter planned. N2 The project finances plans for flood protection, development of infrastructure and provision of According to Measures 70 and 71 00 equipment and operations management of flood risks in localities near or within the Natura 2000 of the NPAF. 0 network. an d B D cli The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of m infrastructure to disasters. at e 1.3. Establishment of six centers to increase the preparedness of the population for an adequate response to floods Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. cli The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of m infrastructure to disasters. at e 1.4. Implementation of studies and assessments related to the preparation of the FRMPs for the period 2021 – 2027 (to be developed in the period 2016-2021) Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. This project fulfils the requirements relating to risk assessment, identification and mapping of For projects related to conducting wa areas with potentially significant flooding risk and to planning measures. studies or assessments of flooding ter risk. 2. Measures for landslides risk prevention and management: 2.1 Preventive measures and activities for geological defense in registered landslides areas (incl. areas affected by abrasion on the Black sea coast and erosion on the Danube riverbank). 2.2 Measures and activities for geological defense in registered landslides areas for limitation of the landslides; 2.3 Construction/ repairing of Control and measurement systems (CIS) carried out monitoring of the landslides process in the registered areas.

Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. B The facility to be built is 'green' infrastructure. D cli The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of m infrastructure to disasters. at e 3. Demonstration/pilot projects for flood and landslides risk prevention and management and information campaigns for raising the public awareness in regard with these risks Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. B The project envisages the construction of 'green' infrastructure. D cli The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of m infrastructure to disasters. at e PRIORITY AXIS № 5 IMPROVEMENT OF THE AMBIENT AIR QUALITY Investment Priority c (iv) to TO 6 (CF): Taking action to improve the urban environment, to revitalize cities, regenerate and decontaminate brownfield sites (including conversion areas), reduce air pollution and promote noise-reduction measures Measures aimed at improving the ambient air quality, including: 1. Review and analysis of the municipal plans on ambient air quality and support for their subsequent preparation/revision, implementation and control; 2. Measures addressing pollution from domestic heating - The indicative measures to be financed are related to: – replacement of stationary individual and multi-family domestic combustion installations/boilers on solid fuel – with respect to the latter, priority will be given to investments which will be made in insulated buildings; – installation of PM filters on individual domestic combustion installations (when technically and economically feasible); – measures for alternative heating, serving certain residential areas (which consist of individual houses and/or small multi-family buildings using solid fuel for heating) – demarcation with OPRG 2014 – 2020 will be respected; – other supplementary measures, identified as appropriate by the beneficiaries to contribute to the achievement of the project objectives or resulting from the review and analysis of the municipal air quality plans. 3. Measures addressing pollution from public transport - The indicative measures to be financed are related to: – measures to reduce emissions from public transport vehicles including reduction of the use of conventional fuel in public transport, replacement of the public transport vehicles exhaust systems (retrofitting); – other supplementary measures identified as appropriate by the beneficiaries to contribute to the achievement of the project objectives or resulting from the review and analysis of the municipal air quality plans. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The municipality is with poor air quality and the project will contribute to reducing pollutants and Priority is given to municipalities achieving standards set under the programmes in accordance with Article 27 of the Clean that implement programmes air Ambient Air Act. under Article 27 of the Clean Ambient Air Act. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. cli The project involves measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. m at e OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME TRANSPORT AND TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE 2014-2020

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PRIORITY AXIS № 1 DEVELOPMENT OF RAILWAY INFRASTRUCTURE ALONG THE “CORE” TEN-T Investment priority 7i: Supporting a multi-modal Single European Transport Area by investing in Trans-European transport network (TEN-T) Examples of actions eligible to be financed: Construction, modernisation, rehabilitation, electrification and establishment of signalling and telecommunication systems of railway sections and technical assistance measures for preparation/completion of preparation of investment projects along the “core” and “comprehensive” Trans-European Transport Network. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The project aims to develop and implement more According to Measures 106 and environmentally friendly alternatives to projects likely to 111 of the NPAF. N2000 have an impact on the environment as well as investments and BD to overcome the fragmentation of natural habitats affected by human activity. Availability of a detailed Environmental Management The criterion is included in the Plan, Pollution Contingency Measures and a Plan to SEA Opinion on Transport and EIA, Monitor the Impact on the Environment (containing a Transport Infrastructure OP SEA and CA description of the organization of implementation), 2014-2020. including requirements in terms of water, air, climate, waste, biodiversity and noise. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project prioritises the improvement of the existing routes to building new ones. Space for containers for waste collection is ensured where appropriate. waste The use of recycled materials in the construction is envisaged. The project envisages measures to reduce greenhouse gas In the context of Commission emissions and/or to help climate change adaptation and/or staff working document the resilience of infrastructure to disasters. 'Adapting Infrastructure to Climate Change' (http://ec.europa.eu/clima/polici es/ adaptation/what/docs/ swd_2013_137_en.pdf) it is climate possible to define climate change adaptation criteria, such as 'protection' forests (for mountainous areas - these prevent landslides, avalanches, floods) and greater capacity for water flow than the norm (for areas at high risk of flooding). The project envisages noise protection measures Priority of the EU according to (including soundproofing screens) in respect of the the EU Environment Action noise settlements located near areas covered by the project. Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". PRIORITY AXIS № 2 DEVELOPMENT OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE ALONG THE „CORE” AND “COMPREHENSIVE” TEN-T Investment priority 7i: Supporting a multi-modal Single European Transport Area by investing in the TEN-T Examples of actions to be financed: Construction and modernisation of sections of the “core” TEN-T road infrastructure and technical assistance for preparation of projects along the “core” and “comprehensive” Trans-European Transport Network. Criteria laid down in legal requirements N2000 The project aims to develop and implement more According to Measures 106 and and BD environmentally friendly alternatives to projects likely to 111 of the NPAF. have an impact on the environment as well as investments to overcome the fragmentation of natural habitats affected by human activity. Availability of a detailed Environmental Management The criterion is included in the Plan, Pollution Contingency Measures and a Plan to SEA Opinion on OP Transport Monitor the Impact on the Environment (containing a and Transport Infrastructure EIA, SEA and CA description of the organization of implementation), 2014-2020. including requirements in terms of water, air, climate, waste, biodiversity and noise. A management plan for construction waste was developed for the project, providing for waste recovery in waste accordance with the national targets for reuse, recycling and other types of recovery. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project envisages use of recycled building materials. waste

As a result of the project implementation, road infrastructure provides optimum speed at optimum operation of automotive engines and reduces greenhouse gases. The project envisages the construction of road section/s, For projects for the construction where the total distance of movement at restricted speed is of new sections. minimum (by shortening tunnels, reducing gradients, increasing curve bends, avoiding settlements, etc.). The project envisages measures to reduce greenhouse gas In the context of Commission emissions and/or measures for climate change adaptation staff working document and/or the resilience of infrastructure to disasters. 'Adapting Infrastructure to Climate Change' climate/air (http://ec.europa.eu/clima/polici es/ adaptation/what/docs/swd_2013 _137_en.pdf) it is possible to define climate change adaptation criteria, such as 'protection' forests (for mountainous areas - these prevent landslides, avalanches, floods) and greater capacity for water flow than the norm (for areas at high risk of flooding). The projects envisage noise protection measures Priority of the EU according to (including soundproofing screens) in respect of the the EU Environment Action noise settlements located near areas covered by the project. Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". PRIORITY AXIS № 3 IMPROVEMENT OF INTERMODAL TRANSPORT SERVICES FOR PASSENGERS AND FREIGHTS AND DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE URBAN TRANSPORT Investment priority 4e: Promoting low-carbon strategies for all types of territories, in particular for urban areas, including the promotion of sustainable multimodal urban mobility and mitigation relevant adaptation measures Examples of actions to be financed: Extension of Sofia Metro and establishment of new intermodal connections for passengers in the public transport system of Sofia. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be air released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. Space for containers for waste collection is ensured where waste appropriate.

The project provides better efficiency in the use of public transport and transport infrastructure (e.g. a higher climate number of passengers) and leads to a reduction of greenhouse gases. The projects envisage noise protection measures Priority of the EU according to (including soundproofing screens) in respect of the EU Environment Action noise settlements located near route covered by the project. Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". Investment priority 7a: Supporting a multimodal Single European Transport Area by investing in TEN-T Examples of actions to be financed: –Construction of new intermodal freight terminals; –Reconstruction of key railway stations along the main railway lines. Criteria laid down in legal requirements A management plan for construction waste was developed waste for the project, providing for its recovery.

air The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project envisages use of recycled building materials. waste

The project provides better efficiency in the use of climate transport infrastructure (e.g. a higher number of passengers) and leads to a reduction of greenhouse gases. PRIORITY AXIS № 4 INNOVATIONS IN MANAGEMENT AND SERVICES - ESTABLISHMENT OF MODERN INFRASTRUCTURE FOR TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPORT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT Investment priority 7c: Developing and improving environmentally-friendly including low-noise and low-carbon transport systems including inland waterways and maritime transport, ports, multimodal links and airport infrastructure, in order to promote sustainable regional and local mobility Examples of actions to be financed: Development of navigation information systems, upgrading the existing systems and the systems under construction, supply of multipurpose vessels, development of information systems for road traffic management, modernisation and construction of port reception facilities for treatment of ship-generated waste and cargo residues in Bulgarian ports of national importance for improvement of environmental management, improvement of quality of aeronautical data and information in the area of civil aviation. Investment priority 7d: Developing and rehabilitating comprehensive, high quality and interoperable railway systems, and promoting noise-reduction measures” Examples of actions to be financed: Development of systems for railway traffic management –establishment of modern systems for railway traffic management –establishment of GSM-R network (for sections, beyond the scope of the projects for modernisation of the railway infrastructure under Priority Axis 1) Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides better efficiency in the use of transport and transport infrastructure (e.g. shorter climate travelling time, optimum speed) and leads to a reduction of greenhouse gases. OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME REGIONS IN GROWTH 2014-2020

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PRIORITY AXIS № 1 SUSTAINABLE AND INTEGRATED URBAN DEVELOPMENT Investment priority 4c: Supporting energy efficiency, smart energy management and renewable energy use in public infrastructures, including in public buildings, and in the housing sector Activities:  Implementation of energy efficiency measures in residential buildings, in student dormitory buildings, in administrative buildings of the state and municipal administration, such as: insulation of envelopes of the buildings, replacement of windows, renovation of the systems for maintaining microclimate, technical installations, local installations and / or connections to heat supply, gas supply, installation of individual meters in accordance with the requirements of Directive 2012/27 /EU (where applicable) as well as accompanying construction works related to the implementation of energy efficiency measures, incl. construction reinforcement (when it is prescribed mandatory in the constructive survey);  Implementation of the above measures for energy efficiency accompanied by deep renovation of residential buildings, student dormitory buildings, administrative buildings of the state and municipal administration, incl. accompanying construction works, construction reinforcement (when it prescribed mandatory in constructive survey) as well as repair and reconstruction of different parts of the building (roof, exterior walls, staircase cells, elevators, etc.), if they achieve energy savings for the building of more than 60%;  Energy efficiency surveys and constructive surveys of existing residential buildings, student dormitory buildings and administrative buildings of the government and municipal administration;  Evaluation of the cost effectiveness of the investment;  Commissioning of installations for production of energy from renewable energy sources for the buildings listed above to meet their own energy consumption, where this is technically possible and economically feasible;  Provision of loans and/or guarantees for renovation of residential buildings and student dormitory buildings;  Improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above. Criteria laid down in legal requirements Where groundwater will be used for thermal energy For commissioning of generation, an abstraction permit and a permit for use of a installations for production of water water body for reinjection of thermally processed water energy from renewable sources issued under the WA must be presented. for the above buildings. A "local" system of separate waste collection is available or is to be built - under the WMA all administrative, waste commercial, industrial and business sites should guarantee separate waste collection, at least for paper and cardboard, metal, glass and plastic. The project activities are performed in compliance with At construction/building Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit renovation stage. If the EIA emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) procedure is completed, control air released in the atmosphere by installations and activities will be carried out under the with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at conditions in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides water-saving fixtures and water technologies.

Upon installation of heating supply systems, gas supply systems, power systems, an assessment and analysis of the waste various options and a possibility of using waste as an energy source, etc. are envisaged. The project provides a larger area for landscaping, construction of green infrastructure (e.g. the so-called climate "green roof", "green walls", etc.). The project results in reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The project will be implemented in a municipality with Priority is given to poor air quality, contributing to the reduction of pollutants municipalities that implement and to achieving the standards set under the programmes programmes under Article 27 of in accordance with Article 27 of the CAA. the Clean Ambient Air Act. air The project envisages measures to reduce adverse Where applicable (for buildings atmospheric emissions in terms of reducing pollution with solid fuel heating, which from residential heating with solid fuels in winter. are not planned to receive gasification or district heating). The project envisages the use of materials, ensuring a In order to select projects that noise higher degree of noise insulation. reduce noise in buildings. Investment priority 4e: Promoting low-carbon strategies for all types of territories, in particular for urban areas, including the promotion of sustainable multimodal urban mobility and mitigationrelevant adaptation measures Activities: Development of traffic management plans and establishment of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), including automated traffic management and control systems, vehicle detection and localization systems and ensuring an advantage for the vehicles of the urban public transport, systems for information to passengers in real time, automated ticketing systems, communication sub-systems, video surveillance systems to be used by the urban mobility centres, etc. Improvement of the accessibility of the stations of urban public transport and the infrastructure leading to them (underpasses and overpasses), such as platforms and elevators for people with disabilities, removing the orientation and information barriers, light and audio announcements on stops, clear visualization of the lines and timetables, readable and appropriate information for people with impaired vision and for the blind, etc.; Renovation of the transport infrastructure, such as the socket and catenary cable network, improving stations and stops, depots, repair and maintenance facilities and equipment; Development of infrastructure and route network with new destinations to remote residential areas; Provision of noise-reduction systems, such as construction of tram tracks with anti-vibration and anti-noise elements; Development and improvement of urban public transport systems, incl. purchase of new rolling stock for urban transport, that is compliant with the European legislation on harmful emissions from engines and measures to increase the use of renewable / alternative energy sources in urban transport; Construction/ renovation/ reconstruction of street networks and transport infrastructure together with the adjoining structures (bridges, tunnels, overpasses, underpasses etc. as an elements of the technical infrastructure pursuant to Article 64 (1) of the Spatial Development Act) regarding the development of an EN 49 EN integrated public transport system; Construction / reconstruction / renovation of pedestrian streets, sidewalks and pedestrian areas, cycling tracks and lanes, bicycle parking lots, underpasses, overpasses, transport infrastructure, including related activities such as installation of road signs, information boards, street marking etc., as part of the integrated urban transport system; Improving the connections between integrated urban transport, intercity bus, rail, air, inland waterways and marine transport, as part of realisation of intermodal transportations – renovation of municipal bus stations and relevant areas in front of the stations owned by municipalities, stops for the public transport, ensuring easy transfer to the subsequent type of transport and logical connections between the elements of infrastructure etc.; Construction / reconstruction / renovation of parking spaces and other measures related to parking arrangements in proximity to public urban transport nodes outside the city centre. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is air emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions. in the EIA decision. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project envisages construction and reconstruction of street networks with operational underground water infrastructure.

The project envisages the use of soundproof facilities with plants. N2000 and BD

The project envisages energy efficiency measures and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. climate The project envisages measures to help climate change adaptation and ensure resilience of infrastructure to disasters. The project will be implemented in a municipality with Priority is given to poor air quality, contributing to the reduction of pollutants municipalities that implement air and to achieving the standards set under the programmes programmes under Article 27 of in accordance with Article 27 of the CAA. the Clean Ambient Air Act. Activities/ projects include analysis and expected effect in Priority of the EU according to reducing noise and improving the acoustic state of the urban the EU Environment Action noise environment as a result of their implementation. Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". Investment priority 6e: Taking action to improve the urban environment, to revitalise cities, regenerate and decontaminate brownfield sites (including conversion areas), reduce air pollution and promote noise-reduction measures Group of activities: Urban environment – The construction and rehabilitation of public recreation spaces, e.g. parks, green areas, children’s playgrounds, zoos, city squares, the spaces between multifamily housing buildings, free-access sports grounds, etc., including placement of benches, arbors, restoration of drinking fountains, decorative fountains, ponds, statues, monuments and other elements of the urban furniture, incl. green infrastructure and connecting green areas to improve urban ecosystems; – Construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation of the physical elements of the urban environment, e.g. pedestrian alleys and sidewalks, bicycle trails and lanes, pedestrian areas, underpasses and overpasses for pedestrians and cyclists, including related activities such as signposting, placement of information boards, etc; – Construction, rehabilitation and reconstruction of streets and public parkings; – Installation of energy saving street lighting and security and crime prevention measures, e.g. installing lighting in parks, security surveillance systems in public places, etc. as part of the construction and rehabilitation of other physical elements of the urban environment (street network, parking areas) within IPURDs; – Introducing systems for control of motor vehicle access into pedestrian areas, e.g. mechanical/hydraulic/electric gates or barriers that can be opened/lowered remotely from an ambulance, a fire engine, a police vehicle or a public sanitation truck and also allow access into the pedestrian area by other vehicles (e.g. delivery vans) during pre-set hours while enabling connectivity with the video surveillance system, etc.; – Creation of an accessible architectural environment in relation to the above areas of activity, including by improving the access for people with disabilities to buildings of the administration. Group of activities: Zones with potential for economic development – Improvement / upgrading and reconstruction of existing, or construction / development of new technical infrastructure related to business and entrepreneurship, e.g. communication connectivity; construction / reconstruction / rehabilitation of streets providing access to and within industrial zones and business areas; public lighting; connections to the gas, electric, water and sewage primary networks; signposting and placement of information boards; security surveillance systems around or within the business zones and lots, etc.; – Construction, renovation, rehabilitation, reconstruction and repair of business and industrial areas, inc. public or commercial buildings, incl. connections to central heating systems, gas, etc.; – Cleaning, recultivation, decontamination and other activities to prepare the existing polluted and obsolete industrial and brownfield sites of economic activity; – Landscaping, places for recreation, bicycle lanes, bicycle and motor vehicle parking spaces for workers in the zones with potential for economic development; Criteria laid down in legal requirements water A permit for water abstraction and a permit for use of In the case of self-supply, energy water bodies for wastewater discharge issued under the production from underground WA are available. water and/or wastewater discharge from the facility (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The project aims to achieve the minimum requirements of For projects for zoos. Ordinance No 6 of 23 October 2003 setting the minimum N2000 and BD requirements and conditions for keeping animals in zoos and breeding centres and breeding of protected animals. The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be air released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. water The project contributes to improving water management in urban areas by designing cities in accordance with the concept of "green infrastructure", including creating a natural system for collecting rainwater, etc. The project provides water-saving fixtures and technologies.

The project envisages construction and reconstruction of street networks with operational underground infrastructure. Upon installation of heating supply systems, gas supply systems, power systems, an assessment and analysis of the waste various options and a possibility of using waste as an energy source, etc. are envisaged. N2000 and BD The project envisages afforestation and grassing only with For projects not subject to EIA. species typical for the region where the project is implemented. The project envisages information signs for natural sites To raise public awareness. nearby (old trees, wetlands, protected areas or specific species). climate The project envisages the construction, rehabilitation and For projects for construction, reconstruction of public parkings near key transport rehabilitation and reconstruction junctions. of public parkings. The project provides a combination of implementation of energy efficiency measures in buildings and commissioning of plants for generation of energy from renewable sources. The project provides a larger area for landscaping, For projects that ensure construction of green infrastructure (e.g. the so-called landscaping in areas of "green roof", "green walls", etc.). economic development potential. The project will be implemented in a municipality with Priority is given to poor air quality, contributing to the reduction of pollutants municipalities that implement air and to achieving the standards set under the programmes programmes under Article 27 of in accordance with Article 27 of the CAA. the Clean Ambient Air Act. Activities/ projects include analysis and expected effect in Priority of the EU according to reducing noise and improving the acoustic state of the the EU Environment Action noise urban environment as a result of their implementation. Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". Investment priority 9a: Investing in health and social infrastructure which contribute to national, regional and local development, reducing inequalities in terms of health status, promoting social inclusion through improved access to social, cultural and recreational services and the transition from institutional to communitybased services Group of activities: Social infrastructure – Support for the provision of modern social housing to vulnerable, minority and marginalised groups of the population and other disadvantaged groups through construction, reconstruction, renovation and expansion of social housing and the rehabilitation of the adjacent yard, in which target group representatives to be accommodated; improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects; – General renovation / reconstruction / construction of adequate municipal infrastructure for provision of community-based services to the elderly and to people with disabilities outside the state policy on deinstitutionalisation: day-care centres, shelters, crisis assistance centres, social dormitories, etc. including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects and construction inspections of the existing building; – General renovation / reconstruction / construction of adequate municipal infrastructure for provision of community-based services to children outside the state policy on deinstitutionalisation: centres for support of homeless children, crisis assistance centres, day-care centres, counselling centres, etc. including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects and construction inspections of the existing building; – Delivery and assembly of equipment and furnishings for the buildings and facilities EN 69 EN listed above, as part of their general overhaul; Group of activities: Sports infrastructure – Construction, reconstruction, renovation, equipment and furnishing of sports infrastructure for sports for all, such as sports halls, swimming pools, football fields, stadiums for public use, combined volleyball / basketball playgrounds, tennis courts, etc., including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects and construction inspections of the existing building; Group of activities: Cultural infrastructure – Development of cultural infrastructure through construction, reconstruction, renovation, equipment and furnishing of cultural centres, theatres, community centres, libraries, opera houses, galleries, cultural exhibition halls and other cultural institutions including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects and construction inspections of the existing building. Criteria laid down in legal requirements A permit for water abstraction and a permit for use of In the case of self-supply, energy water bodies for wastewater discharge issued under the production from underground WA are available. water and/or wastewater water discharge from the facility (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be air released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for rehabilitation and modernisation For projects for construction and of the existing facilities. modernisation of infrastructure. The project provides water-saving fixtures and water technologies. The project envisages installation of energy-efficient urban lighting of high energy-saving effect. The project leads to energy efficiency/ reduces For projects for implementation greenhouse gas emissions. of energy efficiency measures in climate buildings, including sports infrastructure. The project provides a larger area for landscaping, construction of green infrastructure (e.g. the so-called "green roof", "green walls", etc.). Investment priority 10a: Investing in education, training, including vocational training for skills and lifelong learning by developing education and training infrastructure Indicative eligible activities: Construction, reconstruction and renovation of municipal educational institutions, such as crèches and kindergartens, general and profiled schools (classrooms, libraries, school labs, sports facilities, school wings, school dorms, internet connectivity), including the adjacent school yards; improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects as well as construction inspections of the existing building;  Delivery and assembly of equipment and furnishings for the buildings and facilities listed above, as part of their general overhau. Criteria laid down in legal requirements A permit for water abstraction and a permit for use of In the case of self-supply of water bodies for wastewater discharge issued under the water and/or wastewater WA are available. discharge from the facility water (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be air released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for rehabilitation and modernisation For projects for construction/ of the existing facilities. reconstruction and renovation of buildings. The project provides water-saving fixtures and water technologies.

The project provides a combination of implementation of This will give priority to projects energy efficiency measures in buildings and ensuring energy efficiency and commissioning of plants for generation of energy from renewable energy measures. renewable sources. climate The project leads to energy efficiency/ reduces For energy efficiency projects. greenhouse gas emissions. The project provides for landscaping of a larger area and building "green roofs" and "green walls". PRIORITY AXIS № 2 SUPPORT FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN SUPPORT CENTERS IN PERIPHERAL AREAS Investment priority 4c: Supporting energy efficiency, smart energy management and renewable energy use in public infrastructures, including in public buildings, and in the housing sector Activities: –Implementation of energy efficiency measures in residential buildings, in administrative buildings of the state and municipal administration and in municipal public buildings of educational, cultural and social infrastructure (excluding buildings of social institutions for children and adults, which are in conflict with the national policy of deinstitutionalization of these services), such as: insulation of envelopes of the buildings, replacement of windows, renovation of the systems for maintaining microclimate, technical installations, local installations and / or connections to heat supply gas supply, installation of individual meters in accordance with the requirements of Directive 2012/27 /EU (where applicable) as well as accompanying construction works related to the implementation of energy efficiency measures, incl. construction reinforcement (when it prescribed mandatory in constructive survey); –Implementation of the above measures for energy efficiency accompanied by deep renovation of residential buildings, administrative buildings of the state and municipal administration and municipal public buildings of educational, cultural and social infrastructure (excluding buildings of social institutions for children and adults in conflict with the national policy of deinstitutionalization of these services), incl. accompanying construction works, construction reinforcement (when it prescribed mandatory in constructive survey) as well as repair and reconstruction of different parts of the building (roof, exterior walls, staircase cells, elevators, etc.), if energy savings for the building of more than 60% are achieved; –Energy efficiency surveys and constructive surveys of existing residential buildings, administrative buildings of the state and municipal administration and municipal public buildings of educational, cultural and social infrastructure (excluding buildings of social institutions for children and adults in conflict with the national policy of deinstitutionalization of these services); –Evaluation of the cost effectiveness of the investment; –Commissioning of installations for production of energy from renewable energy EN 95 EN sources for the buildings listed above to meet their own energy consumption, where this is technically possible and economically feasible; –Improving access for people with disabilities to the buildings mentioned above. Criteria laid down in legal requirements A permit for water abstraction and a permit for use of In the case of self-supply, energy water bodies for wastewater reinjection or discharge production from underground issued under the WA are available. water and/or wastewater water discharge from the facility (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The project activities are performed in compliance with At infrastructure construction Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June 2005 on the limit stage. If the EIA procedure is emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) completed, control will be air released in the atmosphere by installations and activities carried out under the conditions with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at in the EIA decision. limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides water-saving fixtures and technologies. The project aims to improve water management in urban water areas by designing cities in accordance with the concept of "green infrastructure", including creating a natural system for collecting rainwater, etc. Upon installation of heating supply systems, gas supply systems, power systems, an assessment and analysis of the waste various options and a possibility of using waste as an energy source, etc. are envisaged. The project will be implemented in a municipality with Priority is given to poor air quality, contributing to the reduction of pollutants municipalities that implement and to achieving the standards set under the programmes programmes under Article 27 of in accordance with Article 27 of the CAA. the Clean Ambient Air Act. air The project envisages measures to reduce adverse Where applicable (for buildings atmospheric emissions in terms of reducing pollution with solid fuel heating, which from residential heating with solid fuels in winter. are not planned to receive gasification or district heating). The project provides a combination of implementation of This will give priority to projects energy efficiency measures in buildings and ensuring energy efficiency and commissioning of plants for generation of energy from renewable energy measures. climate renewable sources. The project provides for landscaping of larger area and building 'green infrastructure' (for example the so-called "green roofs", "green walls", etc.) PRIORITY AXIS № 3 REGIONAL EDUCATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE Investment priority 10a: Investing in education, skills and life-long learning by developing educational and training infrastructure Indicative eligible activities: –Construction, reconstruction and repair of state and municipal schools of national and regional importance as well as universities, including the adjacent yards and school dormitories adjacent to secondary schools, construction inspections of the relevant buildings, improving access for people with disabilities to the educational buildings as part of the construction and installation works related to them; –Delivery and assembly of equipment and furnishings for the buildings and facilities listed above, as part of their general renewal. Criteria laid down in legal requirements A "local" system of separate waste collection is available or is to be built - under the WMA all administrative, commercial, industrial and waste business sites should guarantee separate waste collection, at least for paper and cardboard, metal, glass and plastic. The project activities are performed in At infrastructure construction stage. If the compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 EIA procedure is completed, control will be of 27 June 2005 on the limit emission values carried out under the conditions in the EIA for harmful substances (pollutants) released decision. air in the atmosphere by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides water-saving fixtures water and technologies.

Upon installation of heating supply systems, gas supply systems, power systems, an waste assessment and analysis of the various options and a possibility of using waste as an energy source, etc. are envisaged. climate The project leads to energy efficiency/ For energy efficiency projects. reduces greenhouse gas emissions per area unit. The project provides a larger area for landscaping, construction of green infrastructure (e.g. the so-called "green roof", "green walls", etc.).

Activities / projects include soundproofing Priority of the EU according to the EU measures to reduce the noise from the urban Environment Action Programme to 2020 noise environment. "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". PRIORITY AXIS № 4 REGIONAL HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE Investment priority 9a: Investing in health and social infrastructure which contribute to national, regional and local development, reducing inequalities in terms of health status, promoting social inclusion through improved access to social, cultural and recreational services and the transition from institutional to community-based services. Indicative eligible activities Interventions in the infrastructure of the emergency medical care system of the first type (outpatient care) - 28 emergency medical care government centers and their branches.  Purchase of modern ambulances, provided with communication and other equipment and medical equipment for emergency medical care and the opportunity for remote consultation (telemedicine);  Construction, reconstruction, repair, equipment (incl. ICT/Communication systems) and furnishing of the branches of the Emergency medical care centers (EMCC), including: - Modernization of the premises in which are located the structures that receive and process calls for emergency medical care coming from tel. 112 and coordinate emergency teams, including in cases of natural disasters, accidents and establishment in those permises of conditions for practical training of EMCC teams for the 28 branches located in district cities. - Providing opportunities (premises, equipment and apparatus) for providing emergency aid on the territory of the branch and short-term monitoring and treatment of patients for up to 24 hours for the 170 branches for emergency medical care, which are located outside the district centers. - Developing infrastructure (premises), allowing functional union "under one roof" of the activities of various entities for the provision of health and social services for branches positioned in regions with difficulties in access to medical care. Interventions in infrastructure for emergency medical care of the second type (emergency departments in state owned hospitals)  Construction of a modern health infrastructure (construction, reconstruction, EN 122 EN repair and equipmen (incl. ICT/Communication systems) t), including the adjacent yard, preparation of construction surveys of the buildings, improving the access for people with disabilities to the buildings subject of intervention, as a part of the above construction and installation activities for emergency departments for provision of optimum conditions for access to mobile teams, triage of patients, urgent diagnosis and treatment of patients with lifethreatening conditions;  Techical support for implementation and monitoring of the major project’s activities, fulfilment of the relevant criteria of tex-ante conditionality 9.3 and ensuring sustainability of the invetsments. Technical assistance  Technical support, consultancy, research, analyses, studies, and other external expertise supporting the effective implementation of the major project and implementation of applicable ex-ante conditionallities, such as for example: 1. Mapping and assessment of the investment needs in emergency medical care; 1.1 Preparation of an analysis and an investment plan with specific investment needs for the specific sites; 2. Preparation of financial plan; 2.1 Update of the financial plan for the implementation of the National Health Strategy; 3. Establishing a system for monitoring and evaluation of the National Health Strategy; 3.1 Outsorcing and implementation of interim evaluation of the implementation of the National Health Strategy and recommendations for updating the National Health Strategy; 3.2 Outsourcing and implementation of ex-post evaluation of the implementation of the National Health Strategy and recommendations for the National Health Strategy for the next period. Criteria laid down in legal requirements A permit for water abstraction and a permit In the case of self-supply of water and/or for use of water bodies for wastewater wastewater discharge from the facility water discharge issued under the WA are available. (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The project activities are performed in At infrastructure construction stage. If the compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 EIA procedure is completed, control will be of 27 June 2005 on the limit emission values carried out under the conditions in the EIA for harmful substances (pollutants) released decision. air in the atmosphere by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides water-saving fixtures water and technologies. The project leads to energy efficiency/ For energy efficiency projects. reduces greenhouse gas emissions per area unit. The project envisages production of energy climate from renewable sources with acceptable impact on the environment. The project provides for landscaping of a larger area and building "green roofs" and "green walls". Activities / projects include soundproofing Priority of the EU according to the EU measures to reduce the noise from the urban Environment Action Programme to 2020 noise environment. "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". PRIORITY AXIS № 5 REGIONAL SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE Investment priority 9a: Investing in health and social infrastructure which contribute to national, regional and local development, reducing inequalities in terms of health status, promoting social inclusion through improved access to social, cultural and recreational services and the transition from institutional to communitybased services Indicative eligible activities: – Construction, repair, reconstruction of centres providing services for children at risk – day-care centres for children with disabilities, centres for social rehabilitation and integration, centres for prevention for children and families from different vulnerable groups (drug addicts, children with disabilities, children with deviant behaviour, etc.), including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects, construction inspections of the existing buildings; – Construction of family-type residential centres for children at risk and the adjacent yards. Construction, repair, reconstruction, renovation of buildings for protected homes (extension, reconstruction and restructuring of spaces), including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities as part of the remaining construction and installation works, construction inspections of the existing buildings; – Construction, reconstruction and repair of infrastructure for provision of services for early development of children for children and their families; improving access for people with disabilities as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects, construction inspections of the existing buildings; – Development of infrastructure for accompanying services for children and elderly people – day-care centres and centres for social rehabilitation and integration, etc., including the adjacent yard; – Construction, repair, reconstruction and renovation of buildings for communitybased social services (including resident social services) in connection with the deinstitutionalisation of elderly people (adult persons) (extension, reconstruction and restructuring of spaces), including the adjacent yard; improving access for people with disabilities as part of the remaining construction and installation works related to the corresponding objects, construction inspections of the existing buildings; – Delivery and installation of equipment and furniture for the above mentioned buildings / premises, as part of their renovation. Criteria laid down in legal requirements

A permit for water abstraction and a permit In the case of self-supply of water and/or for use of water bodies for wastewater wastewater discharge from the facility water discharge issued under the WA are available. (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The project activities are performed in At infrastructure construction stage. If the compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 EIA procedure is completed, control will be of 27 June 2005 on the limit emission values carried out under the conditions in the EIA for harmful substances (pollutants) released decision. air in the atmosphere by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides water-saving fixtures water and technologies. The project leads to energy efficiency/ For energy efficiency projects. reduces greenhouse gas emissions per area unit. climate The project provides a larger area for landscaping, construction of green infrastructure (e.g. the so-called "green roof", "green walls", etc.). Activities / projects include soundproofing Priority of the EU according to the EU measures to reduce the noise from the urban Environment Action Programme to 2020 noise environment. "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". PRIORITY AXIS № 6 REGIONAL TOURISM Investment priority 6c: Conserving, protecting, promoting and developing natural and cultural heritage Indicative eligible activities: – Development of cultural heritage sites of national and world importance, including religious ones, through conservation and restoration, regeneration, protection, exhibiting, socialising, promotion, equipping, introducing techniques and programmes for interpretation and animation, etc.; – Landscaping activities, improvement of the adjacent spaces, as well as support of the development of tourist products (on the basis of the the supported attractions) and market information such as marketing and researches of the impact, regional surveys of the visitors, development of marketing and advertisement strategies and programmes for the tourist products, development of tourist packages and advertising activities - preparation and distribution information and advertising materials for the tourism products, digitalization of the respective site, etc., directly related to the supported attractions and their link with the surrounding natural environment; – Development of tourist infrastructure needed for the attractions (tourist paths and health paths, climbing routes, horse riding and biking routes, picnic areas, signs, visitor information centres); – Development of additional small-scale technical infrastructure in the area of the attractions needed for visiting the attractions (water supply and sewage, children’s playgrounds, recreation and sports facilities, parking areas, green areas, toilets, lighting and electricity installation, small facilities for garbage collection, public utilities and facilities, that serve the tourist attraction and visitors, necessary for the development of a complete tourist product); – Small-scale income-generating investments in trade and food areas, accommodation, leisure and recreational facilities, within the cultural site or directly linked to it within the integrated tourist product, that could be financed with financial instruments; – Additional small-scale non-infrastructure activities directly related to the supported attractions (organisation of events in the area of the attractions, marketing and advertising activities); – Related training for the staff, working at the supported attractions; – Participation in regional, national and international tourist exchanges, exhibitions and fairs and organising of expedition trips, visits of travel agents, tour operators, writers of travel guides, journalists for promoting the supported attractions; – Public awareness, including through campaigns for raising the awareness of the cultural heritage and its protection and conservation; – Improving the access of people with disabilities to the cultural heritage sites and the adjacent infrastructure.. Criteria laid down in legal requirements Collection, disposal and treatment of In support of sites discharging wastewater. wastewater or bringing facilities to the water existing sewerage system is available or planned. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project envisages construction and For development projects for additional small reconstruction of technical infrastructure with scale technical infrastructure in the area of operational underground infrastructure. the attractions. Environmental management systems and/or For activities for development of natural, registration in the EU Eco-Management and cultural and historical attractions. Audit Scheme (EMAS) are envisaged. The project provides for landscaping climate measures and building "green roofs" and "green walls".

PRIORITY AXIS № 7 REGIONAL ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE Investment priority 7b: Enhancing regional mobility through connecting secondary and tertiary nodes to TEN-T infrastructure, including multimodal nodes Indicative eligible activities: – Connectivity and accessibility to the TEN-T network ensuring intraregional connections between cities and providing opportunities for the development of the specific economic potential through construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation of 1st and 2nd class roads (outside the Trans-European Transport Network) and 3rd class roads; – Engineering solutions for green infrastructure in the implementation of the above activities - preventing and guidance equipment (silencing green walls, fences, loose ramps, slopes) traffic signs (signs, lamps, reflective devices), construction equipment crossing over and under infrastructure (eco-overpasses for wildlife, landscape tunnel channels and culverts, shadowy tunnels for amphibians and small animals) and others, where necessary. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The project activities are performed in At infrastructure construction stage. If the compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 EIA procedure is completed, control will be of 27 June 2005 on the limit emission values carried out under the conditions in the EIA for harmful substances (pollutants) released decision. air in the atmosphere by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. water The project envisages construction and reconstruction of street networks with operational underground infrastructure. The project aims to develop and implement According to Measures 106 and 111 of the more environmentally friendly alternatives to NPAF. N2000 projects likely to have an impact on the and BD environment as well as investments to overcome the fragmentation of natural habitats affected by human activity. The project ensures optimum speed at optimum operation of automotive engines and reduces greenhouse gases. The project provides a larger area for landscaping, construction of green infrastructure (e.g. the so-called "green roof", "green walls", etc.). The project envisages construction of a road For projects for the construction of new road air and climate section where the total distance of restricted sections. speed is minimum (tunnels, slopes, turns, settlements, etc.). Projects for existing road routes are Limiting the effect on new areas for transport preferred. infrastructure. The project envisages measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or to help climate change adaptation and/or the resilience of infrastructure to disasters. The project envisages recultivation of The provisions of the Protection of damaged areas. Agricultural Land Act, the Soils Act and Ordinance No 26 regarding reclamation of soil damaged areas, improvement of low-fertility lands, removal and utilization of the humus layer apply. The projects envisage noise protection Priority of the EU according to the measures (including soundproofing screens) Environment Action Programme to 2020 noise in respect of the settlements located near "Living well, within the Limits of Our areas covered by the project. Planet". OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME INNOVATION AND COMPETITIVENESS 2014-2020

S E C T O R NOTES / / CRITERIA RECOMMENDATION P O L I C Y PRIORITY AXIS № 1 TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION Investment priority 1.1: Technological development and innovation Actions to be supported:  Development of cooperation for innovation between enterprises, between business and academia incl. internationalisation of the innovation process;  Support for innovation in enterprises, incl. development and introduction of new products, processes and business models in enterprises;  Support for development of environment and research and innovation infrastructure for business needs. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for new technologies, new products, new processes or new services that Where applicable to the contribute to environmental protection or a more efficient use of resources - reduction of the project. The criterion is generated waste, waste-free technologies, recycling of construction materials, low-carbon economy included in the SEA Opinion and clean water. on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. Proposals which provide for the introduction of techniques and production practices that lead to Where applicable to the improving the environment and protecting human health. project. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. ch The project envisages research and innovation for the deployment of technologies that replace or Priority of the EU according to completely exclude the use of the most hazardous chemicals identified under Regulation (EC) № the European chemicals 1907/2006 (REACH) for safer alternatives. legislation (REACH Regulation) and the EU Environment Action Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". The project envisages development of alternative test methods without the use of laboratory Priority of the EU according to animals to determine the ecotoxicological or toxicological properties of chemical substances, the European chemicals including computer methodologies and quantitative and qualitative patterns of correlation between legislation (REACH structure and activity or structurally related substances and in-vitro methodologies. Regulation) and the EU em Environment Action ica Programme to 2020 "Living ls well, within the Limits of Our Planet". The project provides for research and innovation in the field of combined effects of chemicals Priority of the EU according to (chemical mixtures), nanomaterials, chemicals that disrupt the endocrine (hormonal) system the European chemicals (endocrine disruptors) and hazardous chemicals in products. legislation (REACH Regulation) and the EU Environment Action Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". w New technologies introduced in line with the best available techniques and practices for efficient According to the additional a use and conservation of water. provisions in the WA. t The project provides for development or deployment of innovative technologies which correspond e to the priorities identified in the Water Innovation Strategic Plan approved within the European r Innovation Partnership. The project provides for innovative environmental and technological approaches covering the life cycle of products, eco-design, eco-labeling, etc. w The planned innovation provides for a more efficient packing of goods, including: a – reduction of the weight of packaging; s – the introduction of efficient systems for reuse including from the standpoint of materials for the t manufacture of packages, and of the organisation of multiuse systems; e – replacement of traditional packaging materials for alternative ones, including biodegradable and compostable. N The project aims to encourage the development of green economy at or around the sites of the According to Measures 9 and 20 Natura 2000 network, outside the scope of the RDP, and the transition to a low carbon economy on 10 of the NPAF. 00 the territories of the Natura 2000 network. an d B D The project envisages investments in low carbon technologies. For project for support of innovative companies for the development and deployment of products, processes and c business models; encouraging l investment in Research and i Development, including in m partnership with academia and a other enterprises; support for t innovative start-ups. e The project envisages measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or to help climate change For projects to support the adaptation. development of partnerships between the business and academia. PRIORITY AXIS № 2 ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND CAPACITY FOR GROWTH OF SMES Investment priority 2.1: Access to finance for supporting entrepreneurship Action to be supported:  Financial instruments in support of entrepreneurship incl. financial instruments combined with grants;  Encouraging entrepreneurial ideas in areas related to European and regional challenges and sectors defined in the National Strategy for Promotion of SMEs. Support of ideas that will be implemented by social entrepreneurs and cooperatives of people with disabilities, women-entrepreneurs, startup entrepreneurs – persons up to 29 years and for persons aged over 50, starting new business is also envisaged. Investment priority 2.2: Capacity for SMEs to grow Indicative activities:  general productive investments for enhancing the production capacity for growth through effective and efficient use of the factors of production and through creation of opportunities for adoption and adaptation of European and international knowledge and technology;  support for specialized services to SMEs to develop and strengthen the management capacity;  support for the growth of businesses by improving the quality and by promoting the use of ICT and services;  support for the implementation of activities and services for direct benefit of the business development and opportunities for SMEs export. Criteria laid down in legal requirements w Permits for water abstraction and/or use of water bodies for wastewater discharge as required by at the WA are available and the project ensures that the requirements set out in the permits are e fulfilled. r Collection, disposal and treatment of wastewater or bringing facilities to the existing sewerage In support of enterprises system is available or planned. discharging wastewater. New technologies introduced in line with the best available techniques and practices for efficient use and conservation of water. The supported enterprise meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for new technologies, new products, new processes or new services that Where applicable to the contribute to environmental protection or a more efficient use of resources - reduction of the project. The criterion is generated waste, waste-free technologies, recycling of construction materials, low-carbon economy included in the SEA Opinion and clean water. on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. Environmental management systems and/or receipt of environmental lagels and/or registration in Where applicable to the the EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) are envisaged. project. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. Proposals which provide for the introduction of techniques and production practices that lead to Where applicable to the improving the environment and protecting human health. project. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. The project complies with Commission Communication "Green Action Plan - Enabling SMEs to The proposed criteria can be turn environmental challenges into business opportunities" (COM/2014/0440 final/2), including analyzed at the stage of priorities: development of guidelines for  promoting business partnerships, skills and knowledge for green entrepreneurship; application and if applicable,  providing practical information, advice and support to SMEs on opportunities for cost- they can be set as criteria at the improving of resource efficiency and promoting business opportunities on green markets; application stage or at the stage  support of technology transfer in the field of green technology; of implementation of the  use of the opportunities offered by a green chains in value creation by removing systemic proposals. barriers to cross-sectoral and transnational cooperation in the chain of value creation and the creation of enterprises and cooperation between enterprises by facilitating the creation of business models and services for re use of materials, products and waste;  promotion of the access to international markets for green entrepreneurs and their internationalization. The project envisages introduction of techniques, technologies or chemicals that provide a safer or Priority of the EU according to less hazardous to human health and the environment, alternatives to chemicals on the candidate list the European chemicals for authorization and/or dangerous substances whose manufacture, use or placing on the market are legislation (REACH banned or severely restricted under Regulation (EC) № 1907/2006 (REACH). Regulation) and the EU Environment Action Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". The project envisages introduction of best available techniques and production practices that Priority of the EU according to substantially limit the adverse effects on human health and the environment from production and the European chemicals use of chemicals. legislation (REACH Regulation) and the EU Environment Action c Programme to 2020 "Living h well, within the Limits of Our e Planet". m The project envisages introduction of techniques / technologies that reduce the use of hazardous i chemicals and/or the level of risk of a major accident when handling certain hazardous substances. c The project envisages construction or modernization of laboratory infrastructure and capacity for Priority according to the a testing of hazardous chemicals, including persistent organic pollutants in various matrices (soil, air, updated National Action Plan l water, food, consumer products). for Management of Persistent s Organic Pollutants 2012-2020. w The project includes a "green" approach - using recycled and/or recyclable materials, the use and The criterion is included in the a provision of natural materials, etc. first criterion in the SEA s Opinion on OP Innovation and t Competitiveness 2014-2020. e N The project aims to encourage the development of green economy at or around the sites of the According to Measures 9 and 2 Natura 2000 network, outside the scope of the RDP, and the transition to a low carbon economy on 10 of the NPAF. 0 the territories of the Natura 2000 network. 0 0 a n d

B D PRIORITY AXIS № 3 ENERGY AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY Investment priority 3.1: Energy technologies and energy efficiency Actions to be supported:  support for increasing the energy efficiency in enterprises;  institutional support for sustainable energy development. Criteria laid down in legal requirements Where groundwater will be used for thermal energy generation, an abstraction permit and a permit The proposed criteria can be for use of a water body for reinjection of thermally processed water issued under the WA must be analyzed at the stage of presented. development of guidelines for w application and if applicable, a they can be set as criteria at the t application stage or at the stage e of implementation of the r project proposals. The supported enterprise meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. N The project aims to encourage the development of green economy at or around the sites of the According to Measures 9 and 10 2 Natura 2000 network, outside the scope of the RDP, and the transition to a low carbon economy on of the NPAF. 0 the territories of the Natura 2000 network. 0 0 a n d

B D c The project envisages production of energy from renewable sources with acceptable impact on the Where applicable, the aim is to l environment. give priority to projects that i provide for generation of m renewable energy for their own a needs as part of energy t efficiency measures. e Investment priority 3.2: Resource efficiency Activities: Support for pilot and demonstration innitiatives to increase the resource efficiency in enterprises or group of enterprises. They will support measures to improve resource efficiency and sustainable use of raw materials, incl. industrial symbiosis:  introduction of high-tech and ICT solutions for optimizing the production processes and reducing the use of raw materials;  implementation of modern technologies for use of waste as a raw material in new production and/or other alternative uses;  implementation of modern wastefree technologies, incl. replacement of obsolete and resource-intensive equipment;  implementation of innovative production materials and increasing the use of recycable materials, incl. investing to adapt the existing equipment to the characteristics of new products;  introduction of turnover cycles for water use in production processes. Criteria laid down in legal requirements w The project provides for the waste generated during its implementation to be managed in a accordance with national waste legislation, including reuse, recycling and recovery (compliance s with the waste management hierarchy) in line with the principle of extended producer t responsibility. e Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. Products are envisaged to obtain the right to use the EU Ecolabel under Regulation (EC) № The criterion is suitable for 66/2010. products for which there are specific criteria adopted by a Commission Decision. w The project provides for development or deployment of innovative technologies which correspond When funding measures for the a to the priorities identified in the Water Innovation Strategic Plan approved within the European implementation of innovative t Innovation Partnership. production materials and e increasing the use of recycable r materials, incl. investing to adapt the existing equipment to the characteristics of new products. The supported enterprise meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. Project leads to energy benefits associated with increasing waste recovery and reduced use of natural resources / raw materials. w The project envisages higher quantitative results according to the following activities related to The criteria give priority to a implementation: projects, providing more than s 20% use of waste as raw t deployment of modern technologies to use waste as a raw material in new production and/or material and the use of e other alternative uses; –deployment of modern waste-free technologies; recyclable materials. –increasing the use of recyclable materials. N The project aims to encourage the development of green economy at or around the sites of the According to Measures 9 and 2 Natura 2000 network, outside the scope of the RDP, and the transition to a low carbon economy on 10 of the NPAF. 0 the territories of the Natura 2000 network. 0 0 a n d

B D c The project envisages production of energy from renewable sources with acceptable impact on the Where applicable, the aim is to l environment. give priority to projects that i provide for generation of m renewable energy for their own a needs as part of energy t efficiency measures. e PRIORITY AXIS № 4 REMOVING BOTTLENECKS IN SECURITY OF GAS SUPPLIES Investment priority 4.1: Improving energy efficiency and security of supply through the development of smart energy transmission systems Action to be supported: Construction of the section on Bulgarian territory of the gas interconnector between Bulgaria and Serbia - Phase 2 of "Construction of Gas Interconnection Bulgaria-Serbia" project. Criteria laid down in legal requirements w All required permits under the WA for the installation of facilities crossing water bodies are a available. t e r Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for new technologies, new products, new processes or new services that Where applicable to the contribute to environmental protection or a more efficient use of resources - reduction of the project. The criterion is generated waste, waste-free technologies, recycling of construction materials, low-carbon economy included in the SEA Opinion and clean water. on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. Proposals which provide for the introduction of techniques and production practices that lead to Where applicable to the improving the environment and protecting human health. project. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on OP Innovation and Competitiveness 2014-2020. w Upon installation of heating supply systems, gas supply systems, power systems, an assessment a and analysis of the various options and a possibility of using waste as an energy source, etc. are s envisaged. t e OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT 2014-2020

S E C T O R NOTES / CRITERIA / RECOMMENDATION P O L I C Y PRIORITY AXIS № 1 IMPROVING THE ACCESS TO EMPLOYMENT AND THE QUALITY OF JOBS Investment priority 1: Access to employment for job-seekers and inactive people, including the long-term unemployed and people far from the labour market; also through local employment initiatives and support for labour mobility Examples of eligible actions:  Provision of intermediary services on the labour market, activation of inactive people, holding of job fairs and other supporting employment services;  Vocational information and counselling, including on issues related to labour and social security rights;  Psychological support;  Providing motivation training;  Providing training on increasing of professional qualifications and acquisition of new qualifications;  Providing training on key competences;  Ensuring employment after provision of intermediary services and/or training;  Ensuring on-the-job training (apprenticeship) and traineeships;  Providing incentives to encourage the mobility of job-seekers from disadvantaged groups on the labour market;  Providing incentives to employers to hire unemployed people from disadvantaged groups on the labour market;  Work with the employers for overcoming the discriminatory attitudes regarding the recruitment of certain vulnerable groups on the labour market, together with the provision of intermediary services for the employers; Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including Depending on the project. the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project contributes to the creation of "green jobs". Priority according to Communication of the European Commission "Green Employment Initiative: exploiting the Green Economy Potential to Create Jobs" (COM(2014) 446 final). N The project contributes to the creation of "green jobs" around and in the territories of the Natura According to Measures 7 and 2 2000 network, including to management of the protected areas. 41 of the NPAF. 0 0 0

a n d

B D Iinvestment Priorities 2 and 3: Sustainable integration into the labour market of young people, in particular those not in employment, education or training, including young people at risk of social exclusion and young people from marginalised communities, including through the implementation of the Youth Guarantee - YEI Examples of eligible actions:  Providing intermediary services in the labour market, organising job fairs and other supporting employment services;  Taking actions on activation of the economically inactive youth who are not engaged in education or training in terms of their inclusion in the labour market, including conducting information campaigns and events, job fairs, workshops on job search, etc.;  Providing professional information, counselling services and psychological support;  Providing training upon registration as an unemployed: motivation training, vocational training; key competences training and retraining; entrepreneurship training;  Providing opportunities for employment, including on-the-job training (apprenticeship), upon registration as an unemployed;  Providing incentives to promote the geographical mobility for work purposes;  Providing incentives to the employers for employment of unemployed youth;  Promoting and encouraging the development and launch of own business and entrepreneurship;  Providing trainings in acquisition of entrepreneurial, managerial and business skills;  Supporting the development of business ideas and guidance on funding programmes for new entrepreneurs, including under HRD OP.

Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes training in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including application Depending on the project. of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. N The project contributes to the training of young entrepreneurs in planning and development of According to Measure 110 of 2 environmentally-friendly business in NATURA 2000 territories. the NPAF. 0 0 0

a n d

B D Investment Priority 4: Modernization of labour market institutions such as public and private employment services, and improvement of the adequate matching of labour market needs, including through actions to increase transnational mobility of the labour force, and also through schemes of mobility and better cooperation between the institutions and the relevant stakeholders Examples of eligible actions:  Support for the policy planning, management, monitoring, evaluation and adaptation processes in the areas of labour market and their apllication - analyses, studies, research, forecasts, etc. regarding the labour market condition;  Development, implementation and improvement of tools for monitoring, analysis and evaluation of the condition and trends on the labour market, enterprises and characteristics of the labour force;  Support for the improvement of the Employment Agency's service provision system - development of new and improvement of existing intermediary services on the labour market;  Carrying out specialised studies, research and analyses, including for transnational geographical and professional mobility on the efficiency and customer satisfaction as regards services provided by the Employment Agency and EURES partners;  Design of innovative working processes, establishment of new models of management, monitoring system and evaluation of performance efficiency, including of the quality of services provided and legislative amendments regarding the Employment Agency's operation;  Development and introduction of online services on the labour market, incl. online intermediary services;  Providing opportunities for outsourcing of some of the working processes;  Development of systems and platforms to ensure adequate interaction between the Employment Agency and employers;  Activities for strengthening the capacity of public labour intermediaries and mediators, including trainings of staff in order to facilitate the access and improve the quality of the services provided in favour of job-seekers and employers;  Assessment of the needs of specific skills and their acquisition, knowledge and competences of the Employment Agency's employees; provision of resources for specialised labour intermediaries, Roma labour mediators, case managers and psychologists who work with vulnerable groups on the labour market;  Organisation of events (conferences, round tables, seminars, working meetings, discussions, etc.) in order to be exchanged experience, to be disseminated and introduced good practices, including with relation with EURES services. Facilitation of networks and partnerships for the introduction of new approaches for development of transnational mobility of workforce. Organization and participation in joint activities with key stakeholders (such as European networks and social partners);  Establishment of more efficient and synergistic interaction and exchange of good practices and experience between the European public employment services and other institutions and organisations involved in the labour market via implementation of innovative approaches and integrated activities;  Building upon systems of performance control over the activities of the Employment Agency employees;  Material and technical resources and support for the working processes of the Employment Agency employees, including the necessary fixed tangible and intangible assets;  Provision of intermediary services to job-seekers and employers for transnational mobility, including apprenticeships and internships, organisation and attendance of information events, job fairs, etc., supporting employment services in Bulgaria and the countries of EURES network;  Provision of EURES supporting services to facilitate the employment of job-seekers, who wish to work abroad such as trainings for an acquisition of language skills, intercultural competencies and vocational training for specific skills;  Improving the quality of services for job-seekers and employers via organization and participation in specialized trainings for employees providing EURES services through development of services standards, draft manuals, etc.;  Support for the performance of activities involving selection and accreditation of partners within the EURES network in Bulgaria;  Establishment of planning, management, monitoring and evaluation systems for follow-up of the efficiency of the work of the Bulgarian partners of the EURES network;  Development of technical infrastructures and interoperability between databases of the entities providing intermediary services for mobility and the EURES portal. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including Depending on the project. the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. Investment Priority 5: Self-employment, entrepreneurship and business creation, including innovative micro, small and medium sized enterprises Examples of eligible actions:  Promotion the launching and development of independent business activity and entrepreneurship;  Providing training in acquisition of entrepreneurial, managerial and business skills;  Providing financial support for launching independent business activity;  Providing specialised counselling services to self-employed people on issues related to business development – accounting services, human resources management services, etc. and also other services supporting the development of start-up business, such as access to networks promoting business development, as the specific needs might be. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes training in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including application Depending on the project. of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. N The project contributes to the creation of "green jobs" and/or to the training of young entrepreneurs According to Measures 7, 41 2 in planning and development of environmentally-friendly business practices in NATURA 2000 and 110 of the NPAF. These 0 territories. measures will provide trainings 0 in the acquisition of 0 entrepreneurial, management and business skills, with the a exception of those falling n within the scope of the RDP, d Measure 91.

B D Investment Priority 6: Enhancing equal access to lifelong learning for all age groups in formal, non-formal and informal settings, upgrading the knowledge, skills and competences of the workforce, and promoting flexible learning pathways including through career guidance and validation of acquired competences” Examples of eligible actions:  Provision of training in improving and/or acquiring professional qualification;  Provision of training in the acquisition of key competences;  Provision of access to continuing education for better professional career and professional training of the staff;  Provision of access to innovative forms of lifelong learning;  Development and implementation of systems for provision of training to employed persons, which is in line with the employers' needs and meets high quality standards;  Support for practices aimed at adapting the knowledge and skills of the employed persons to the real needs of the labour market and enterprises, including to the introduction of new "green" and resource-efficient technologies;  Introduction of training methods and programmes based on the experience to enhance the knowledge, skills and competences of the employed persons depending on the labour market needs;  Support for implementation of lifelong learning strategies in cooperation with the social partners, including trainings, skills development and upgrading key competences, such as foreign languages, digital competences, entrepreneurship, etc. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes training in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project contributes to overcome the shortage of "green" skills in accordance with the real Priority according to needs of the labour market. Communication of the European Commission "Green Employment Initiative: exploiting the Green Economy Potential to Create Jobs" (COM(2014) 446 final). Investment Priority 7: Adaptation of Workers, Enterprises and Entrepreneurs to Change Examples of eligible actions:  Provision of intermediary services;  Provision of on-the-job training;  Support for practices and provision of services to the employees and employers in order to prevent or mitigate the consequences of the economic restructuring;  Support for practices which promote the occupational and geographical mobility of the employees;  Support for practices which introduce flexible forms of employment;  Support for practices which improve the human resources management systems in the enterprises with a focus on the practices related to the sustainable integration of young people in the workplace, facilitating the balance between the professional, family and private life and extending the working life of the older workers and employees;  Support for practices which introduce innovative, more productive and more "green" work organisation models in the enterprises, including practices which ensure health and safety at work and which improve the professional and health status of the workers and employees and the social climate;  Support for practices aimed at promoting the protection of the labour, social security and social rights of the workers and employees, equality and equal treatment on the workplace;  Support for practices aimed at the development of corporate social responsibility;  Provision of trainings for SME managers and entrepreneurs in order to improve their managerial and entrepreneurial skills. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including Depending on the project. the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project contributes to overcome the shortage of "green" skills in accordance with the real Priority according to needs of the labour market at enterprise level. Communication of the European Commission "Green Employment Initiative: exploiting the Green Economy Potential to Create Jobs" (COM(2014) 446 final). PRIORITY AXIS № 2 REDUCING POVERTY AND PROMOTING SOCIAL INCLUSION Investment priority 1: Socio-economic integration of marginalised communities such as the Roma Examples of actions:  Improving the Access to Employment – activating economically inactive people; intermediary services for finding a job, professional information and counselling, psychological support, motivational training, provision of training, involvement in traineeships, apprenticeships and employment, including in the area of social economy, promoting self-employment, etc.;  Improving the Access to Education - preventing early school leaving, integration of children and youth in the educational system, improving the access to educational services for early childhood development, adult literacy;  Improving the Access to Social and Health Services – improving the access to and provision of quality social and health services, including integrated cross-sectoral services depending on the specific needs of the target group, provision of individual counselling services and social health intermediary services to the representatives of the target groups; raising awareness as to their social and health rights; promoting the family planning and responsible parenthood, improving the health awareness and culture, etc.;  Development of Local Communities and Tackling the Negative Stereotypes - planning, management, monitoring and evaluation of initiatives aimed at the socio-economic integration of socially excluded people, groups and marginalised communities and at the community development, community activities on changing practices, which have a negative impact on the social inclusion, support for inclusion of the target groups in the elaboration and implementation of national and local policies, initiatives aimed at tackling stereotypes, initiatives aimed at promoting the cultural identity of the ethnic communities, including in the field of traditional activities and talents (arts and crafts). Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the good practice in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including In terms of projects under areas the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these Improving the Access to areas. Employment and Development of Local Communities and Overcoming the Negative Stereotypes. N The project contributes to the creation of "green jobs" and/or to planning and development of According to Measures 7, 41 2 environmentally-friendly business practices around and in the territories of the Natura 2000 and 110 of the NPAF. 0 network, including to the management of the protected areas. 0 0 a n d

B D Investment priority 2: Active inclusion, including with a view to promoting equal opportunities and active participation, and improving employability Examples of eligible actions:  Provision of services to families with children (including children with disabilities), prevention services (family counselling, prevention of abandonment, etc.) and support services, including integrated cross-sectoral services in the community or in family environment;  Implementation of integrated approaches for promoting the participation of people who take care for dependent family members in the labour market;  Improving the access of the people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups to employment through implementation of integrated comprehensive measures and provision of support services, including in the community;  Improving the access to healthcare and health promotion, including through targeted actions aimed at vulnerable groups;  Local social activities related to the social inclusion. Investment Priority 3: Enhancing access to affordable, sustainable and high- quality services, including health care and social services of general interest Examples of eligible actions:  Provision of support services, including integrated cross-sectoral services in the community or in home environment; provision of early child development services; provision of prevention and early intervention services to children; provision of services for elderly people (including single people over 65 incapable of self-care), people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups;  Provision of the resources and services, including prevention services, needed to eliminate the institutional model of care for children and youth by establishing networks of social and cross-sectoral services in the community, in a family or family-like environment;  Provision of the resources and services needed to eliminate the institutional model of care for elderly people and people with disabilities by establishing networks of communitybased social and cross-sectoral services;  Development of foster care and other preventive and alternative forms of care and services;  Improving the access to healthcare and health promotion, including through targeted actions aimed at children, youth and vulnerable groups;  Local social activities related to the social inclusion. Investment priority 4: Promoting social entrepreneurship and vocational integration in social enterprises and the social and solidarity economy in order to facilitate access to employment Examples of eligible actions:  Support for the operation of social enterprises, specialised enterprises and cooperatives for people with disabilities in relation to providing employment;  Social marketing and popularisation of the social economy and social entrepreneurship;  Social and vocational integration of representatives of the vulnerable groups in the social economy sector;  Training and qualification for the people being employed in the social enterprises, specialised enterprises and cooperatives for people with disabilities;  Equipment and workplace adaptation;  Support for actions relating to forming partnerships and dissemination of good practices in the area of social economy;  Enhancing the capacity and human resources for effective management of the social enterprises, specialised enterprises and cooperatives for people with disabilities;  Provision of “supported employment” to people with disabilities;  Public awareness campaigns on the potential of the social economy. PRIORITY AXIS № 3 MODERNISING THE INSTITUTIONS IN THE AREA OF SOCIAL INCLUSION, HEALTHCARE, EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND NONDISCRIMINATION AND WORKING CONDITIONS Investment priority 1: Investment in institutional capacity and in the efficiency of public administrations and public services at the national, regional and local levels with a view to reforms, better regulation and good governance Examples of eligible actions:  Support for the processes of planning, management and adaptation of policy in the field of social inclusion, healthcare, equal opportunities and non-discrimination and working conditions;  Improving the coordination in and between the institutions working in the areas of social inclusion, healthcare, equal opportunities and non-discrimination and working conditions;  Drafting analyses, studies, surveys and forecasts in the areas of social inclusion, healthcare, equal opportunities and non-discrimination and working conditions;  Development/updating of financial models for the value and maintenance of services provision;  Carrying out monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of policies in the areas of social inclusion, healthcare, equal opportunities and non-discrimination and working conditions;  Establishment and development of information and communication systems, platforms and networks, etc.;  Provision of specialised trainings for the employees in the institutions working in the areas of social inclusion, healthcare, equal opportunities and non-discrimination and working conditions;  Organisation of events (conferences, round tables, seminars, working meetings, discussions, etc.) to be attended by the stakeholders for exchange of experience, dissemination and introduction of good practices; Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, Depending on the project. including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. PRIORITY AXIS № 4 TRANSNATIONAL COOPERATION Investment priority 1: Access to employment for job-seekers and inactive people, including the long-term unemployed and people far from the labour market; also through local employment initiatives and support for labour mobility Examples of eligible actions:  Drafting of specific analyses and studies of the experience in other Member States;  Exchange of staff, programme and project leaders, trainers, representatives of stakeholders as well as representatives of the target groups;  Organisation of public events, seminars, working discussions and trainings promoting the exchange of experience, information, good practices and innovative approaches between the partners and the other stakeholders;  Enhancing the capacity of the partners and the stakeholders for developing, implementing, monitoring and evaluation of good practices and innovative approaches;  Establishment and/or participation in partnership networks (twinning);  Joint or coordinated conduction of social experiments through adaptation and/or validation of innovative models, practices, services and support systems of other countries. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in Depending on the project. the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME GOOD GOVERNANCE 2014-2020

NOTES / SECTOR / POLICY CRITERIA RECOMMENDATION

PRIORITY AXIS № 1 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE DELIVERY AND E-GOVERNANCE Investment priority: Investment in institutional capacity and efficiency of public administrations and public services at national, regional and local levels with a view to reforms, better regulation and good governance Indicative eligible activities:  Reviews and optimization of regulatory regimes;  Reviews of legislation in force in relation to regulatory reform;  Impact assessments of legislation;  Thorough review of registries and registry reform;  Business processes reengineering with a view to complex administrative service delivery;  Municipal administrative services standardization and unification and establishment of reference models for key municipal services;  Establishment of Single administrative service delivery centers;  Establishment of mobile groups providing services to people with disabilities and in remote areas with ageing population;  Administrative capacity building, streamlining of procedures and practices, implementation of effective risk management system, coordinated and joint inspections etc. Improvement of the activity of the control, regulatory and revenue authorities;  Methodological support for the public procurement process.  IT audit in the administrations;  Upgrade of the State hybrid private cloud;  Phased migration of administrative e-systems and services to the hybrid private cloud;  Digitalization of administrative registers and archives and conversion to electronic structured information;  Ensuring interoperability and automated data exchange between information systems and registers;  Development and completion of information systems and services in accordance with the reform of the administrative service delivery model;  Opening to the general public of registers and information in machine-readable format, collected and generated through the use of public resources (“open data”);  Establishment of online system and call center supporting e-services users;  Organisational establishment and development of the Single Systems Integrator;  E-public procurement implementation;  Upgrade of e-customs;  Development of a National Health Information System. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. Development of training modules (as part of the Implementation of ex-ante trainings) on application of the environmental conditionality in respect of the EIA, SEA preventive tools (EIA, SEA, CA, Prevention of major EIA and SEA procedures and CA accidents with hazardous chemicals, Integrated permits, enhancing the capacity to apply Ecolabel, EMAS); the environmental preventive tools. PRIORITY AXIS № 2 EFFECTIVE AND PROFESSIONAL GOVERNANCE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CIVIL SOCIETY AND THE BUSINESS Investment priority: Investment in institutional capacity and efficiency of public administrations and public services at national, regional and local levels with a view to reforms, better regulation and good governance Indicative eligible activities:  Implementation of tools and systems for quality management, performance management, assessment and self-assessment of the administrative activities and monitoring of public policies;  Concentration of functions and policies and optimization pursuant functional reviews of public policies;  Support to the decentralization and deconcentration process;  Development of Integrated public administration information system;  Development of expedient and effective civil servant recruitment methods;  Development of career management tools, including mobility (permanent and temporary), mentoring, and coaching programs, systems ensuring continuity in administrations;  Strengthening the capacity of training institutions - IPA, the Training Academy to the Ministry of Interior and Institute of Psychology to the Ministry of Interior, the Diplomatic Institute to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and NAMRB in relation to the priority’s objectives;  Organization and delivery of trainings for the administration at all levels;  Establishment of a system for monitoring the effectiveness of training;  Development of transnational cooperation and coordination with other EU Member States and EU institutions;  Analyses, studies, assessments, trainings and other activities by NGOs or networks/coalitions/platforms of NGOs and social and economic partners, to improve the business environment and the process of policy making, implementation and monitoring;  Joint actions between authorities and NGOs for the implementation of public policies;  Establishment of a system and mechanism for information exchange between stakeholders (entrepreneurs, national and local authorities and NGOs) in the field of sustainable tourism in Natura 2000 sites;  Development and implementation of new tools and methodologies, as well as dissemination of best practices to obtain in-depth knowledge on specific issues and/or solutions to combat corruption, conflict of interest and abuse of office. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project contributes to enhancing the capacity of the administration and to improving the effectiveness of the actions and measures for integration of EP and CCP in the other policies. The project promotes the awareness-raising in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project provides for conducting of research and analyses and making evaluations on the integration of the requirements set by the EP and CCP, including measures for horizontal integration of the EP and CCP in the national development policies. PRIORITY AXIS № 3 TRANSPARENT AND EFFICIENT JUDICIARY SYSTEM Investment priority: Investment in institutional capacity and in the efficiency of public administrations and public services at national, regional and local levels with a view to reforms, better regulation and good governance Indicative eligible activities:  Analyses, studies, methodologies and evaluations, supporting the implementation of a reform in the structure, procedures and the organization of the justice sector, including the aim to increase the independence of the judiciary;  Analysis and evaluation of the existing system for statistical reporting and creation of a new statistical reporting model of the bodies in the justice sector;  Judicial map optimization;  Build-on and expansion of the scope, as well as introduction of programme budgeting in all judicial bodies  Measures to balance the work load of the magistrates;  Evaluating and reforming the procedures for recruitment, individual performance assessment and carrier development of the magistrates and the court staff;  Developing set of tools to evaluate the efficiency of the Supreme Court of Cassation and the Supreme Administrative Council to uniform the courts’ practice for achieving predictable and quality justice;  Restructuring of the disciplinary proceedings in observation of the international standards and recommendations;  Preventing the conflict of interests and corruption within the judiciary through creation of electronic registers for disclosure of a broader range of circumstances and through efficient control mechanisms, including regular checks for the existence of corruption risks;  Developing and widening the implementation of alternative dispute resolution methods, including through information campaigns;  Reforming the penalty and penitentiary policy to limit the criminal repression through administrative penalties;  Developing new system and organization of the expert reports;  Developing mechanisms and tools for citizen feedback on the use of services provided by the judicial bodies;  Joint activities of the judicial bodies and the executive bodies involved with regard to specific topics of the penal and administrative jurisdiction (e.g. tax and customs offenses, trafficking of people and valuables, laundry and forgery of money, etc.);  Activities to improve the interaction with the non-governmental and professional organizations for more active inclusion in the process of development, monitoring and evaluation of the reform strategies and of the proposals for judiciary improvement;  Inventory taking and the analysis of the IT and the communication infrastructure, the information systems and the services;  Delivery and installment of communication equipment to further develop the virtual private network covering the buildings in the sector, ensuring reliable and secure exchange of information;  Migration of the existing resources, systems and services to the e-governance hybrid private cloud;  Development and implementation of paperless Single information system of courts (SISC), training of magistrates and employees to use the system;  Development of new and upgrade of existing e-services delivered by the justice sector;  Further development of the Unified Information System for Combating Crime (UISCC) and its interface with e-governance and e-justice systems, including the institutional Automated Information Systems (AIS), which ensure data and information exchange;  Applying video-conferencing technologies in the justice sector;  Improvement and expanding the scope of National Institute of Justice (NIJ) syllabuses, including regional and distance training, training of trainers (ToT), and adoption of best European practices;  Exchange programmes for magistrates and court staff, including on-the-spot visits, internships at European judicial institutions;  Research and analytical activities and publications in the field of justice for the needs of the training;  Development and improvment of “е-learning” technological and IT systems, including improvement of the electronic registers;  NIJ organizational development, including introduction of judicial training quality management and control system and development of judicial training communication strategy;  Development and establishment of institutional relations with European and national networks and institutions in the field of judicial training;  Enhancing NIJ capacity for management and implementation of European judicial training instruments;  Preparation, organization and delivery of trainings (including distance and other innovative training forms), seminars, round tables, etc. for magistrates, court staff and investigating bodies pursuant to PPC, as well as for MJ employees and for legal practitioners. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project contributes to the collection and exchange of information on the prevention, detection and punishment of violations of the legislation in the area of EP and CCP. PRIORITY AXIS № 4 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ESIF Actions to be supported:  Consultancy services, including ongoing evaluations of strategic documents related to the ESIF management and implementation;  Organization and participation in coordination events between the OPs;  Annual update and dissemination of manuals, guidelines and procedures of CCU, CA, AA, PPA and structures coordinating the information and publicity policy;  Carrying out on-the-spot audits and inspections by the CA, AA and AFCOS Directorate in Ministry of Interior in the MAs and the beneficiaries, including the cross-border cooperation programmes;  Providing for the monitoring activity of CCU and the structures coordinating the information and publicity policy with respect to the implementation of the ESIF programmes, including on-the-spot checks;  Reduction of the excessive administrative burden on beneficiaries, including during control activities;  Delivery of trainings for the staff of CCU, CA, AA, NSI, PPA, the state aid unit in the MF, the national structure for integration of the environment and climate-change policy and for coordination and control for the implementation of the National Priority Action Framework measures, the AFCOS Directorate in MoI, the structures coordinating the information and publicity policy; organization and participation in training courses, workshops, study visits, conferences and seminars on ESIF management;  Remuneration and other social security costs due by the employer for the horizontal units staff – CCU, CA, AA and the structures coordinating the information and publicity policy for ESIF implementation;  Remuneration and other social security costs due by the employer for the staff of NSI, PPA, the state aid unit within the MF, the national structure for integration of the environment and climate-change policy and for coordination and control for the implementation of the National Priority Action Framework measures, the AFCOS Directorate in the MoI for ESIF implementation;  Support for the participation of staff of the CCU, CA, AA, AFCOS Directorate in the MoI and the structures coordinating the information and publicity policy in the coordination mechanisms related to ESIF management, including participation in working groups and exchanges of experience;  Purchaes, maintenance and update of software, hardware and specialized office equipment for the needs of the horizontal units;  Support for the activity of the UMIS 2020 help desk;  Delivery of hardware and software, IT and telecommunication equipment necessary for the UMIS 2020 upgrade and maintenance;  UMIS 2020 maintenance and upgrade;  Development of information system for programming period 2021-2027;  Training of the users of UMIS 2020 and the information system for programming period 2021-2027;  Maintenance of the documentary fund for operational programmes 2007-2013;  Maintenance and development of the Single Information Web Portal www.eufunds.bg providing access to general and specific information on ESIF management in Bulgaria;  Maintenance and development of the 28th information centers;  Organization of information events, seminars, trainings, conferences, exhibitions, meetings and direct communication, including internet campaigns;  Targeted media relations to promote ESIF implementation in Bulgaria;  Support for the activities and training of the members of the National network of ESIF information and publicity officers;  Development of NAMRB capacity for priority assistance to the small municipal administrations in developing public procurement documentation for ESIF-funded projects;  Development of the NAMRB Municipal Resource Coordination Center. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project promotes the awareness-raising in the area Depending on the project. of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME SCIENCE AND EDUCATION FOR SMART GROWTH 2014-2020

SE C T O R / NOTES / CRITERIA P RECOMMENDATION O LI C Y PRIORITY AXIS № 1 RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT Investment priority 1а: Enhancing research and innovation (R&I) infrastructure and capacities to develop R&I excellence, and promoting centres of competence, in particular those of European interest Representative Actions: 1. Creation and development of Centres of Excellence (CoE), including the modernization of research infrastructure and implementation of their strategic research programmes: Building of new or major upgrade of existing specialized research infrastructures; Purchase and upgrade of equipment, needed for realization of research programs; Conducting market-oriented research at highest international level in the priority areas of RIS33; Introducing new research, training and educational methods in their practice; Attracting principal investigators and top specialists for conducting high level research in the priority areas of RIS3; Providing specializations in the leading scientific centres abroad for the highly qualified researchers; Building strategic partnerships and joint research programs with leading European research centres; Participating in international and transnational research programs/partnerships which ensure high level of international visibility and scientific connectivity; Ensuring excellent working and training conditions for the involved researchers, including high rate of exchange and mobility; Dissemination of their scientific results amongst academic community and the business at international and national level. Development of sustainable sources of funding and operating conditions, including the development of sustainable partnerships with business and conducting joint projects with private investors; and other related activities, needed to make CoE fully operational. 2. Creation and development of centres for applied research, called Centres of Competence (CoC), including the modernization of their research infrastructure and implementation of their strategic research programmes and innovation agendas: To build specialized infrastructures and purchase equipment, needed for realization of their specific research programs and innovation agendas; To conduct research (applied, mission-oriented, experimental development) and to develop/modify new technologies at high

3RIS3 - Research And Innovation Strategies For Smart Specialisation international level in the areas of RIS3; To introduce new innovation, training and educational methods in their practice; To ensure the specialization of top researchers and innovators in the priority areas of RIS3; To develop as leaders in the competitive international and national innovation systems; To develop strategic partnerships with leading technological research organizations and companies in Europe; To build strategic partnerships and work on projects with Bulgarian companies; To develop and commercialize their own IP portfolio, and to secure sustainable non-public funding; To create new start-up, spin-off and spin-out companies; and other related activities, needed to make CoC fully operational 3. Building regional RIS3 specialization capacity within research institutions and schools of higher education outside the Sofia-city region. Building of new and modernization of existing research, analytical, testing or design laboratories (incl. virtual design labs); Purchase and installation of new research instruments and other research tools, needed to perform scientific studies; Purchase and installation of new equipment for pilot and prototyping labs for “training by doing” of specialists which are of interest to the regional business; Preparation of pilot research projects, aimed to promote the cooperation with the regional business players and to find the most viable cooperation models; Conducting applied research or experimental development upon request by the regional industrial clusters and developing concept tools for long term partnerships at regional level; Providing to the business specialized research services which require special scientific expertise of the operators (e.g., developing original design of new type of products or services); Training of specialists in the RIS3 areas, in the modern methods for technology scale-up, and in the main stages of transfer of innovative concepts into products and industrial operations; IP protection of the scientific results and innovative concepts; Other activities for long term partnerships between higher education, public research institutions and businesses at regional level with a view to build-up regional smart specialisation. 4. Creation and modernisation of unique research infrastructures, including unique collections and archives, and Regional Partner Facilities/distributed nodes of the pan-European research complexes identified in the European Roadmap for Research Infrastructures. 5. Support for the access and participation of Bulgarian research organisations and universities in European technology platforms, joint technology initiatives and in European Institute of Innovation and Technology. 6. Support for the access of Bulgarian researchers to international databases and publications (EC open data and open access initiatives) and for the participation of Bulgarian research organisations and universities (without CoE and CoC) in European and global partnership projects and networks for enhancing the competitiveness and quality of researchers’ training in the priority areas of RIS3. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The project activities are performed in compliance with Article 70 of Ordinance № 1 of 27 June In case of measures for ai 2005 on the limit emission values for harmful substances (pollutants) released in the atmosphere construction and modernisation r by installations and activities with immovable sources of emissions and are aimed at limiting the of infrastructure. emissions of particulate pollutants. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, Depending on the project (e.g. including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national training courses, exchange of legislation in these areas. experience, etc.). The project provides for rehabilitation and modernisation of the existing facilities. In case of measures for construction and modernisation of infrastructure. The project provides for performance of research activities in the area of the combined effects of Priority of the EU according to chemicals. the European chemicals legislation (REACH Regulation) and the EU Environment Action Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". The project provides for performance of research and innovation activities in the area of Priority of the EU according to nanomaterials. the European chemicals legislation (REACH Regulation) and the EU Environment Action c Programme to 2020 "Living h well, within the Limits of Our e Planet". m The project provides for research and development in the area of the chemicals which impair the Priority of the EU according to ic operation of the endocrine (hormonal) system (endocrine disrupters). the European chemicals al legislation (REACH s Regulation) and the EU Environment Action Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". The project provides for research developments to identify the risks of the use of hazardous Priority of the EU according to chemicals in products. the European chemicals legislation (REACH Regulation) and the EU Environment Action Programme to 2020 "Living well, within the Limits of Our Planet". c Projects for building or modernisation of the laboratory infrastructure and capacity for testing Priority according to the h hazardous chemicals, including persistent organic pollutants, in various matrices (soil, air, water updated National Action Plan e (including priority and specific substances in water, sludge and biota), food, consumer products). for Management of Persistent m Organic Pollutants 2012-2020. ic al s The research activities involved in the project are aimed at ensuring the application of the EU w legislative requirements in the area of water management. at The project provides for development or deployment of innovative technologies which er correspond to the priorities identified in the Water Innovation Strategic Plan approved within the European Innovation Partnership. cl The project provides for landscaping of a larger area and building "green roofs" and "green i walls". m at e PRIORITY AXIS № 2 EDUCATION AND LIFELONG LEARNING Investment priority 10i: Reducing and preventing early school-leaving and promoting equal access to good quality early-childhood, primary and secondary education including formal, non-formal and informal learning pathways for reintegrating into education and training Activities: Actions to improve students’ key competences focusing on literacy, communication skills in a foreign language, digital competence, social and civic competences; Introduction of modern technologies and interactive methods and tools in the education process, including e-content; Development, updating and evaluation of the effectiveness of curricula and syllabi; Creating modern and secure educational environment in schools based on advanced ICT facilities for visualisation/presentation of the study material and ensuring the required equipment in specialised classrooms (Physics, Chemistry etc.); Introduction of smart interactive systems for communication with parents and the general public; Development of a cloud environment for educational services and learning content with reliable access for users (experts, teaching staff and students); Modernisation of the learning process through introduction of ICT facilities for remote teaching and learning, introduction of distance education and training – provision of specialised equipment for online cooperation and joint projects between institutes/universities/schools etc.; Improving the management of institutions and processes in the pre-primary and the school education system, including in the field of inspection; Developing standards to ensure the quality of pre-primary education with the involvement of all stakeholders (including parents) and preparing appropriate curricula and learning content for children’s development facilitating the acquisition of both cognitive and non-cognitive skills; Developing a specialised module for mastering the Bulgarian language for children whose mother tongue is not Bulgarian for the successful integration of such children; Early screening for learning difficulties with a view to planning for adequate individual support; Encouraging families to cooperate and get involved in the education and learning process; Supporting innovation in teaching for improving the chances of children and students to achieve better learning outcomes; Expansion and improvement of the implementation of the system for evaluation (external and internal) of students’ learning outcomes at national, regional and school level; Measuring students’ performance in reading, mathematics and science, including actions related to participation in national and international research projects, including training of teaching professionals on the implementation of international standards for student evaluation; Introduction of a quality assurance system for teachers’ performance. Setting up interest clubs as part of the full-time organisation of the school day; Ensuring opportunities for development and expression of the creative abilities of children and students through activities aiming to increase motivation for learning through the development of specific knowledge, skills and competencies; Ensuring opportunities for learning tailored to the individual needs of children and students and promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship; Support for development and implementation of school programmes related to the specifics of the organisation and implementation of activities aiming to increase motivation for learning through the development of specific knowledge, skills and competencies; Ensuring access to pre-primary education by expanding the opportunities for inclusion in half-day groups; Introduction of an effective system for continuing training of teachers to motivate young people in accordance with their needs and professional development by promoting the use of innovative teaching methods and ways to address cultural diversity in the classroom; Introduction, implementation and evaluation of the effectiveness of standardised assessment of the level of school preparation; Design, piloting and development of an early warning system for finding, activating and implementing measures for prevention, intervention and compensation aimed at 5-18 year-olds at risk of dropping out, having dropped out or never attended school to complete education, continue education or Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project provides for training in more sustainable models of consumption, environmental Depending on the project (e.g. protection oriented behaviour and benefits of the "green" economy. training courses, exchange of experience, etc.). N The project contributes to the development and implementation of environmental education According to Measures 11 and 2 programmes with a focus on the Natura 2000 network for pupils and students and to the 85 of the NPAF. 0 promotion of the environmentally-friendly behaviour in the adolescents. 0 0 a n d B D Investment priority 10ii: Improving the quality and efficiency of, and access to, tertiary and equivalent education with a view to increasing participation and attainment levels, especially for disadvantaged group Activities: Development and introduction of models for binding the funding of higher education institutions with the learning results and career development of their students; Mainstreaming issues related to sustainable development into the learning content and implementation of interdisciplinary programmes to improve students’ knowledge and skills in areas such as sustainable development and climate change; Establishing a national system for evaluation of the acquired knowledge, skills and competences by graduates in each professional branch of higher education with the participation of employers; Improving the management systems of higher education institutions and introduction of monitoring and control systems; Improving the accreditation system by encouraging flexibility and transparency in external and internal quality evaluation in higher education institutions and research organisations; Maintaining and upgrading of the developed rating system of higher education institutions; Optimisation of structure and operation of higher education institutions by improving the financing model; Using HEInnovate as an instrument for self-evaluation and promotion of change and innovation in higher education institutions. Promotion of student participation in various forms of additional training such as student research clubs, research schools, entrepreneurship centresetc.; Awarding student scholarships, including to promote studies in priority economic areas, as well as scholarships for outstanding achievement in science, engineering and technology, pedagogical sciences, innovation and entrepreneurship, art, culture and sport (on a competitive basis). Integrated measures with the Erasmus+ programme will enable the implementation of activities such as: mobility for exchange of experience/practice for graduate students, doctoral and post-doctoral students, specialising post-graduate students, young scholars and researchers from international European universities and research centres in Bulgaria, including as additional funding under other EU mobility programme; Support for science and research promotion measures; Support for training, continuing training and career development for employed scholars; Developing the capacity and motivation of young professionals: doctoral students, post-doctoral students, specialising post-graduate students and young scholars in the science sector, including through joint research programmes with the business; Support for the development of doctoral students pursuing a “project” PhD in scientific and economic areas of national priority; Development of partnership networks between Bulgarian and foreign scholars, researchers, doctoral and post-doctoral students, specialising post-graduate students, young scholars and teachers for conducting research; Development of research potential and favourable conditions for research conduction, including through attracting scholars from other countries or opening positions for Bulgarian scholars having worked in research organisations abroad; Support for the process of dissemination of research results, including support for organisation of national and international scientific forums (conferences, seminars, symposia, congresses, summer schools, competitions); Measures for the introduction of mandatory periodic independent evaluation of the organizations funding and conducting research, development and innovation, along with a system of regular monitoring and analysis. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the training in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project provides for training in more sustainable models of consumption, environmental protection oriented behaviour and benefits of the "green" economy. w The project contributes to the provision of training related to the implementation of the EU at legislative requirements in the area of water management. er N The project contributes to the development and implementation of environmental education According to Measure 85 of the 2 programmes with a focus on the Natura 2000 network for pupils and students. NPAF. 0 0 0 a n d B D Investment priority 10iii: Enhancing equal access to lifelong learning for all age groups in formal, non-formal and informal settings, upgrading the knowledge, skills and competences of the workforce, and promoting flexible learning pathways including through career guidance and validation of acquired competences Activities: Support for qualification, continuing learning and career development of the employed in the field of education and training; Capacity development and creation of incentives for motivation and retention of young specialists in the system of pre-primary education and in the school education system, for example by providing scholarships to young teaching specialists employed in the pre-school or school education systems who wish to pursue a doctoral degree in education science; Creation of a master professional profile for each position of the career development path for teaching specialists, where the required competences are defined as a combination of knowledge, skills and attitudes of teaching specialists by level of education, type of learning and educational institution; Development and implementation of a performance appraisal model for teaching staff, based on professional standards and introduction of an electronic evaluation system as a basis for professional and career development; Development of an information system with registers of teachers and teaching organisations and institutions; Improving the conditions for development and acquisition of new personal and professional knowledge and skills, including through development of partnership networks; Capacity building and stimulation of young specialists in higher education, including through joint programmes with businesses and economic sectors; Support for trainee teachers by funding internships as part of the practical training of students at higher education institutions; Through integrated measures with the Erasmus+ programme: Mobility for exchange of experience and know-how for teaching staff in mainstream education, including as additional funding under other programmes for mobility within the EU. Promotion of flexible pathways to lifelong learning for persons who are not included in the traditional education system by expanding the range of learning opportunities, including adult literacy, courses for mastering the content of different educational degrees and courses for attainment of professional qualification; Support for actions to improve stakeholder coordination and development of mechanisms for cooperation in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of lifelong learning policies; Expansion of the range of research, analysis and impact assessment for designing appropriate education and lifelong learning policies; Support for activities under the National Qualifications Framework and sectoral qualifications frameworks; Creation of conditions for information provision of the processes in the lifelong learning system; Development of career guidance system (information and counselling, consultation, competence assessment; mentoring, legal assistance, training for decision-making skills, formation of career management skills) for school and university students in the education system; Development of a functioning national system for validation of the results of non-formal and self-directed learning and promotion of its use by all age groups over 16; Promotion of lifelong learning among all segments of the population as a factor of personal development, sustainable employment and social inclusion. Investment priority 10iv: Improving the labour market relevance of education and training systems, facilitating the transition from education to work, and strengthening vocational education and training systems and their quality, including through mechanisms for skills anticipation, adaptation of curricula and the establishment and development of work-based learning systems, including dual learning systems and apprenticeship schemes Activities: Support for actions related to the implementation of a credit system in vocational education as a tool for storage, recognition and transfer of the results of formal, non-formal and self-directed learning towards acquiring professional qualification and lifelong professional development, as well as for facilitation of citizens’ transnational mobility; Introduction of flexible learning forms in vocational education, such as modular training for acquiring professional qualification and learning materials designed in cooperation with the business; Introduction and implementation of on-the-job (dual) learning for people aged over 16; Support for the operation of education and training providers and/or other forms of providers of education and training services. Maintenance of a national information platform “Science-Education-Business”; Support for the development of systems for education planning in accordance with labour market needs at national and regional level; Promotion of education in the fields of engineering, technical and natural sciences and professional branches of prior importance to the economy; Updates of vocational syllabi and curricula with the participation of employers; Design and implementation of policies and measures for development of learning by doing and support for conduction of effective practical training in a real working environment for students in VET schools; Support for the practical training of students in vocational schools through additional practical training activities in real work environment; Provision of additional practical training of students in HEIs in real work environment; Support for actions associated with the development of a career guidance model at school level and a schools-labour market relationship model; Aligning the mechanisms for awarding credits in VET and for validation of the results of non-formal and self-directed learning; Support for a quality assurance system for VET; Support of training of mentors for in-company practical training in dual VET. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for training in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including In terms of projects aimed at application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these updating the curricula and areas. training programmes in the vocational education and at all levels of education. The project provides for training in more sustainable models of consumption, environmental protection oriented behaviour and benefits of the "green" economy. PRIORITY AXIS № 3 EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT FOR ACTIVE SOCIAL INCLUSION Investment priority 9i: Active inclusion, including with a view to promoting equal opportunities and active participation, and improving employability Actions:  Introduction of a model for early assessment of educational needs of children at pre-school age and for prevention of and early intervention with learning difficulties;  Development of a functional model to support the process of inclusive education through involvement and capacity utilisation of specialised schools for students with sensory and cognitive impairments;  Provision of conditions and resources for creation and development of a supportive environment in kindergartens and schools for inclusive education through: providing appropriate architectural and occupancy conditions, capacity building for pedagogical specialists and team work; use of flexible teaching forms; provision of specialised aids and tools; provision of individual support for learning and development in accordance with children’s and students’ educational needs etc.;  Establishment of specialised rooms for working with children and students at kindergarten and school level;  Creating conditions for supporting young people with disabilities to apply for admission to higher education institutions;  Support for training of students, specialising post-graduate students and doctorate students with disabilities;  Creating conditions for formation of positive public attitudes to the process of inclusive education in kindergartens and schools;  Supporting the process of inclusive education and social inclusion by optimising the network of specialised kindergartens and schools;  Provision of alternative models for working with students with deviant behaviour that support their education and social inclusion;  Provision of support for children involved in the deinstitutionalisation process;  Creating conditions for active partnerships with parents at kindergarten and school level;  Overcoming negative public attitudes towards the education of children and students with special educational needs in mainstream kindergartens and schools and ensuring their non-discrimination by teachers, other children or parents. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project promotes the awareness-rising in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, Depending on the project. including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project provides for training in more sustainable models of consumption and environmental protection oriented behaviour. Investment priority 9ii: Socio-economic integration of marginalised communities such as the Roma Actions:  Additional training in Bulgarian for children and students (including children and students seeking or received international protection) whose mother tongue is not Bulgarian;  Capacity building for pedagogical specialists for working in a multicultural environment;  Provision of an appropriate material and psychological support for inclusion of children and students of Roma origin from ethnically segregated kindergartens and schools into kindergartens and schools outside Roma neighbourhoods through phased acceptance;  Support to the process of educational integration and social inclusion through the closure or conversion of ethnically segregated kindergartens and schools in urban areas with more than one kindergarten/one school;  Support for the training of children from Roma families and children and students seeking or received international protection in kindergartens from age 3 for early socialisation;  Support for continuation of the education to upper secondary and higher education level;  Support for development and preservation of the cultural identity of children and students from ethnic minorities, and children and students seeking or received international protection;  Recognition of intercultural education as an integral part of the process of modernisation of the Bulgarian education system;  Promotion of parents’ participation the educational process;  Overcoming negative public attitudes based on ethnic origin and cultural identity (including through information campaigns for non- discrimination based on race, ethnicity or religion);  Support for the provision of access to quality education in rural and remote areas. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the training in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including Depending on the project. the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project provides for training in more sustainable models of consumption and environmental protection oriented behaviour.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA 2014-2020 SE CT OR NOTES / / CRITERIA RECOMMENDATION PO LIC Y Measure 01 KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER AND INFORMATION ACTIONS Sub-measures: 1.1 Vocational training and acquisition of skills 1.2. Demonstration and information actions 1.3. Short-term exchange of experience in the management of agricultural and forestry holdings and visits to agricultural and forestry holdings. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes acquisition of knowledge and skills in the area of EP and CCP (e.g. good agricultural practices, energy saving, resources, adaptation measures, etc.). The project includes training and exchange of experience and good practices to meet the minimum WFD requirements (measuring the volumes of water abstracted, introduction of water wat efficient technologies, exercising control on the pollution with nitrates, phosphates and pesticides, er on the requirements for excrement storage and on the distribution outside the nitrate vulnerable zones to reduce the diffuse pollution with nitrogen (food) substances and organic pollution). The project provides for training in more sustainable models of consumption, environmental was protection oriented behaviour and benefits of the "green" economy and provides opportunities for te recovery of the waste for own energy and agricultural needs. The project provides for implementation of activities covered by: According to Measures 87, 95, Measure 95 – Promotion of the opportunities of the “green” tourism; 89, 91 of the NPAF. N20 Measure 87 – Capacity building of stakeholders for sustainable management of lands/forests on 00 the territory of the protected areas of Natura 2000 network; and Measure 89 – Improvement of the farmers’ knowledge to develop and apply activities for BD biodiversity conservation; Measure 91 – Training of young entrepreneurs / farmers for planning and development of environmentally friendly business on the territories within Natura 2000; MEASURE 02 PROVISION OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES, FARM MANAGEMENT SERVICES AND FARM REPLACEMENT SERVICES Sub-measures: 2.1 Assistance for provision of consultancy services Operation 2.1.1. Consultancy services for farmers and forest holders Operation 2.1.2. Consultancy services for small-scale farmers 2.2. Production of consultancy services 2.3. Support for training of consultants These criteria are not applicable Criteria setting higher requirements to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes acquisition of knowledge and skills in the area of EP and CCP (e.g. good agricultural practices, energy saving, resources, adaptation measures etc.). The project includes training and exchange of experience and good practices to meet the minimum WFD requirements (measuring the volumes of water abstracted, introduction of water wat efficient technologies, exercising control on the pollution with nitrates, phosphates and pesticides, er on the requirements for excrement storage and on the distribution outside the nitrate vulnerable zones to reduce the diffuse pollution with nitrogen (food) substances and organic pollution). The project includes acquisition of knowledge / qualification and skills in the area of According to Measure 4 of the N20 conservation of the biological diversity, protected areas and protected zones, including the NPAF. 00 implementation of Measure 4 - Development of programme for consultation of private owners / and users of land /forests on application of practices related to the specifics of the management in the BD Natura 2000 Network Protected Areas. The project includes consultation and training in prevention of erosion, acidification, salinisation, soil pollution, reduction of the soil organic matter, compaction and prevention of stubble firing.

Measure 04 INVESTMENTS IN TANGIBLE ASSETS Sub-measures: 4.1 Investments in agricultural holdings Investments in modernisation and mechanisation (investment in physical assets) directly related to reduction of the production costs and increasing the labour productivity; Investments in modernisation and mechanisation (investment in physical assets) directly related to reduction of the production costs and increasing the labour productivity in connection with the implementation of the activities covered by Measure Agri-environment and Climate and Measure Organic Farming; Investments to achieve compliance with the newly introduced Community standards applicable to the relevant holdings; Investments directly related to improving the energy efficiency of the holdings; Investments in storage of the agricultural production in order to preserve its quality; Investments in machinery and equipment for protection of the environment, including for storage of manure; Investments in immovable property related to the activities of the agricultural holdings; Investments in planting and/or replanting of permanent crops, table grape vineyards and honey tree species for production of honey and fast-growing shrubs and tree species for production of bioenergy; Investments in production of energy from renewable energy sources for the needs of the agricultural holdings. 4.1.2. Investment in agricultural holdings under Thematic Sub-programme Development of Small-sized Holdings Investments in modernisation or increase of the physical capital in order to reduce the direct production costs, to increase the labour productivity and quality or to extend the production; Investments to improve the pre-market preparation or storage of the production (such as product cleaning, sorting and packaging equipment and buildings for special storage and processing, provision of ventilation, insulation and cooling); Investments in planting and/or replanting of permanent crops, table grape vineyards and honey tree species for production of honey and fast-growing shrubs and tree species for production of bioenergy; Investments to reduce the energy consumption; Investments in production of bioenergy for the needs of the agricultural holdings; Investments in machinery, equipment and facilities for protection of the environment; Investments to achieve compliance with the newly introduced Community standards applicable to the relevant holdings. 4.2 Investment in processing/marketing of agricultural products Investments in processes and technologies for manufacture of products, including processes and technologies related to short supply chains; Investments in construction, acquisition and modernisation of buildings and other immovable assets needed for production and marketing; Investments in installation of new machinery and equipment for the purpose to improve the production process and marketing; Investmenst in assets for storage, processing, packaging, cooling, freezing and drying with a view to preserve the production / raw material quality; Investments in specialised vehicles for transport of raw materials and/or finished products, including refrigerated vehicles; Investments related to the implementation of quality management systems; Investments in production of energy from renewable energy sources for own consumption; Investments to achieve compliance with the Community standards, including investment in treatment plants. 4.2.2. Investment in processing / marketing of agricultural products under Thematic Sub-programme Construction of facilities or modernisation of existing ones for processing of agricultural products included in Annex 1; Creation and/or upgrading the apacity of the local networks for collection, acceptance, storage, air-conditioning, orting and packaging of agricultural production. Investments in environment / climate protection, including in wastewater treatment plants in the processing and marketing; Organisation and implementation of quality management and food safety systems, if they are related to the investments in tangible assets under the project; Processing of agricultural biomass for production of (electrical) energy from renewable energy sources by participants other than agricultural holdings; The support will be provided only for production of energy for own consumption.; Investment to achieve compliance with the standard(s) of the European Union which will become binding on the holdings in the near future. 4.4 Non-remunerative investment. Support for investment in non-remunerative activities aimed at achieving the agri-environmental objectives and the objectives set in the area of climate. Non-remunerative investment for acquisition of assets: Investment in breeding events in the pastures. Non-remunerative investment in holdings bound by the arable land and directly connected with: Restoration and maintenance of high natural value grassland; Planting and recovery of groups of trees and wood strips with a certain area in plain arable land and /or hilly pastures and meadows and recovery of borders (field borders and boundary hedges) with a certain area; Recovery of wetland plants, reinforcement of bank slopes and clearing of unwanted plants; Clearing of unwanted plants, reseeding of mixtures of local origin, breeding events in the pastures - cleaning stones, shrubs and harmful plants from the pastures. Maintaining the habitats of protected species in arable land: Construction of small elements for enrichment of the environment - construction of birdhouses and summer-houses, creation of eco trails, placing distinguishing information signs, etc., including construction of small water bodies. Control of the soil erosion: Creating grassed buffer strips, construction of flow draw-off grooves and building terraces. Traditional practices for seasonal grazing:  Construction of sheds and shelters for the herds and people in the remote areas and construction of watering holes. 4.4.2 Non-remunerative investment under Thematic Sub-programme Development of Small-sized Holdings - performance of investment activities within the commitments in the area of agri-environment and climate and Natura 2000 network, such as recovery of habitats and landscapes, including construction or further provision of the infrastructure required for appropriate management of the habitats; Fencing and other work which facilitate the conservation management, including establishing water and soil protection systems; Restoration of wetlands; Reconstruction of the landscape elements and functions. Criteria laid down in legal requirements wat For the activities to be performed in the supported farms all permits required under the WA er (permit for water abstraction, permit for use of water body (construction of facilities in the backwater areas or retaining structures which change the riparian zone) and wastewater discharge) are available and the parameters and requirements of the permits are currently implemented. The necessary treatment plants to protect the water quality are envisaged to be constructed. When there is a discharge in the surface water. The equipment of the facilities/systems that measure the volumes of water abstracted are available/envisaged. The supported farms has met the mandatory requirements for control of the diffuse sources of pollution with phosphates, nitrates and pesticides. The supported farms meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction, use of water body or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. The supported farms has provided conditions for fulfilment of the requirements applicable to the exctrament storage and the distribution outside the nitrate vulnerable zones to reduce the diffuse pollution with nitrogen (food) substances and organic pollution. The activities laid down in the project comply with the requirements of the Ordinance on the In terms of projects related to terms and conditions for recovery of wastewater sludge through its use in the agriculture adopted construction of WWTP. In the by Decree № 339 of 14 December 2004 of the Council of Ministers and the requirements of the cases where recovery of sludge was Ordinance on the bio-waste treatment adopted by Decree № 225 of 15 October 2013 of the from the wastewater treatment te Council of Ministers promulgated in State Gazette, issue 92 of 22 October 2013. plants and wastewater treatment facilities and its subsequent use in the agriculture has been provided for. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The supported farms is located in nitrate vulnerable zone or in an area contaminated with nitrates In case of funding of measures from agricultural sources or in sanitary safeguard zones of centralised domestic water supply to reduce the pollution caused by system. nitrates. The facility which will be constructed represents green infrastructure. Example: flood area. The project provides for introduction of water-saving technology. In case of funding of measures to modernization and wat mechanization / investments in er physical assets / directly related to the reduction of production costs, and creating and / or transplanting perennials in order to increase the efficiency of water use for such activities. Good agricultural practices approved by the Minister of Agriculture and Food will be applied in the project implementation. w The project provides for performance of activities on soil remediation and reduction of the soil The criterion should be as erosion by using resource-efficient approaches or through recovery of appropriate waste products formulated according to the te for the intended purposes, including for the use of compost. specifics of the measure. In this / case should be used for actions so to control soil erosion. il The project meets the applicable sustainability criteria defined in the EU legislation, including in The criterion is included in the the Ordinance on sustainability criteria for biofuels and liquid fuels from biomass. SEA Opinion on the RDP 2014- 2020 and is relevant to the support for bioenergy projects. N The project contributes to the implementation of the following measures laid down by the NPAF: According to Measures 101, 47, 2 Measure 47 - Improvement of the conservation status of species inhabiting agricultural and forest 54, 57, 13, 98, 106 and 108 of 0 ecosystems; the NPAF. 0 Measure 13 - Prevention of drought in habitats due to climate changes; 0 Measure 54 - Supporting integration activities for sustainable practices in agriculture and a forestry; n Measure 57 - Other measures to support the owners/users/operators of lands/forests on d the territory of protected areas of Natura 2000 network; B Measure 98 - Construction and maintenance of infrastructure needed to restore natural habitats D and species; Measure 106 - Investment to overcome the fragmentation of natural habitats affected by anthropogenic activity; Measure 101 - Investments in the improvement of the waste management from agriculture; Measure 108 - Investments in the restoration of habitats affected by anthropogenic activities. The project is aimed at energy saving and reduction of the greenhouse gas emissions. cl i The project envisages measures for climate change adaptation. m at The project envisages production of energy from renewable sources with acceptable impact on In investment projects for energy e the environment. production from renewable energy sources for their own consumption. The project contributes to the reduction of ammonia emissions in the air in implementation of the In terms of activities aimed at air requirements of Annex IX Measures to control the emissions of ammonia from agricultural investment in safety manure sources laid down in the Protocol to the 1979 Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air storage facilities. Pollution for reducing the acidification, eutrophication and tropospheric ozone. MEASURE 06 DEVELOPMENT OF FARMS AND ENTERPRISES Sub-measures: 6.1 Start-up aid to young farmers 6.2 Start-up aid to non-farming activities:  Activities on tourism development (construction and renovation of tourist sites and development of tourist services);  Production or sale of products which are not included in Annex 1 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (regardless of the input products and materials);  Development of services in all sectors (e.g. care for children, elderly people, people with disabilities, health services, accounting and audit services, veterinary activities, IT-based services, etc.);  Production of energy from renewable energy sources for own consumption;  Development of crafts (including provision of services related to the participation of visitors in the crafts activities) and other non- farming activities. 6.3. Start-up aid to the development of small-sized holdings 6.4. Support for investment in establishment and development of non-farming activities Operation 6.4.1 Investment in support for non-farming activities Operation 6.4.2 Investment in support for non-farming activities covered by Thematic Sub-programme Development of Small- sized Holdings Criteria laid down in legal requirements For the activities to be performed in the supported farms all permits required under the WA Development of services in all (permit for water abstraction, permit for use of water body (construction of facilities in the sectors. backwater areas or retaining structures which change the riparian zone) and wastewater discharge) are available and the parameters and requirements of the permits are currently implemented. The equipment of the facilities/systems that measure the volumes of water abstracted are available/envisaged. The supported farms has met the mandatory requirements for control of the diffuse sources of pollution with phosphates, nitrates and pesticides. A permit for water abstraction and a permit for use of water bodies for wastewater reinjection or In the case of self-supply, energy wat discharge issued under the WA are available. production from underground er water and/or wastewater discharge from the facility (outside the centralized level ensured by the water supply and sewerage operator). The supported farms meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction, use of water body or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. The supported farms has provided conditions for fulfilment of the requirements applicable to the excrement storage and the distribution outside the nitrate vulnerable zones to reduce the diffuse pollution with nitrogen (food) substances and organic pollution. The necessary treatment plants to protect the water quality are envisaged to be constructed. When there is a discharge in the surface water. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for introduction of water-saving technology. The criterion aims to increase the efficiency of water use in wat activities related to providing er basic help for the development of small farms. The project includes measures for waste recovery, including for recovery of sludge from WWTP Where applicable. The criterion for own energy and agricultural needs. should be defined so as to was prevent the opportunity to give te priority to projects for which the use of sludge is not applicable (in view of the type of sludge, soil and crops). The project contributes to the implementation of the following measures laid down by the NPAF: According to Measures 8, 12 and N20 Measure 8 - Promotion of the development of "green" economy around and on the territory of 24 of the NPAF. 00 protected areas of Natura 2000 network I the scope of RDP; and Measure 12 - Reduction of the pressure on the protected areas of Natura 2000 by launching pilot BD energy efficiency practices in the settlements on and around the territory of the Protected Areas; Measure 24 - Planning the development of green tourism around and/or on the territory of the Natura 2000 network. The project envisages measures for climate change adaptation. clim ate The project envisages production of energy from renewable sources with acceptable impact on the environment. MEASURE 07 BASIC SERVICES AND VILLAGE RENEWAL IN RURAL AREAS Sub-measure 7.2. Support for investment in creation, improvement or extension of all types of small-scale infrastructure, including investment in renewable energy and energy saving Activities:  Construction, reconstruction and/or rehabilitation of new and existing municipal roads, streets, pavements and the equipment and accessories thereto;  Construction, reconstruction and/or rehabilitation of water supply systems and equipment in agglomerations of below 2,000 PE in the rural areas; investment in completion (excluding new construction) of the sewage system (including in completion of wastewater treatment plants) in agglomerations of below 2,000 PE in the rural areas;  Construction and/or renewal of areas for general public use intended to constantly satisfy public needs of municipal importance;  Construction, reconstruction, repair, refurbish and/or equipment of social infrastructure for provision of services which are not a part of the process of deinstitutionalisation of children and elderly people, including means of transport;  Reconstruction and/or repair of municipal buildings which provide public services in order to improve their energy efficiency;  Construction, reconstruction, repair, refurbish and/or equipment of sports infrastructure;  Construction, reconstruction, repair, restoration, purchase of equipment and/or refurbish of sites related to the cultural life, including mobile ones, and performance of activities on the vertical layout and improvement of the adjacent spaces;  Reconstruction, repair, equipment and/or refurbish of municipal educational infrastructure of local importance in the rural areas. Sub-measure 7.5. Investment in public use of infrastructure for recreation and tourist infrastructure Activities: Construction, reconstruction, repair, purchase of equipment and/or equipment of tourist information centres; Construction, reconstruction, repair, purchase of equipment and/or equipment of visitor centres for the purpose of presentation and exposure of the local natural and cultural heritage; Construction, reconstruction, repair, purchase of equipment and/or equipment of the art and craft centres for tourist purposes; Construction, reconstruction, repair and purchase of equipment for tourist attractions related to the local natural, cultural and/or historical heritage which provides services for cognitive or educational purposes; Construction, reconstruction, repair and purchase of equipment for tourist infrastructure (information signs and direction indicators of the tourist places and routes, safety facilities, bike lanes and tourist trails). Sub-measure 7.6. Studies and investment related to the maintenance, restoration and improvement of the cultural and natural heritage of villages, landscapein rural areas and high natural value sites, including the relevant socio-economic aspects, as well as actions to raise the awareness on environmental issues – Grant for rehabilitation, restoration, repair and/or reconstruction of buildings of religious importance, including for performance of activities on the vertical layout and improvement of the adjacent spaces, is provided. Criteria laid down in legal requirements wat For the activities to be performed in the supported farms all permits required under the WA er (permit for water abstraction, permit for use of water body (construction of facilities in the backwater areas or retaining structures which change the riparian zone) and wastewater discharge) are available and the parameters and requirements of the permits are currently implemented. The equipment of the facilities/systems that measure the volumes of water abstracted are available/envisaged. The activities provide for completion of wastewater collection and discharge plant or completion In case of construction of sites of treatment plant in the places with existing sewage system. which form wastewater. Treatment of the collected and discharged wastewater has already been provided/is envisaged in the project for the agglomeration where the activities will be implemented. The project provides for activities on completion of sewage systems and treatment plants, as In terms of water supply and provided for in the RBMP in force. sewerage projects for agglomerations where the RBMP provides for measure for completion of the sewage system. The supported municipality/water supply and sewerage operator meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction, use of water body or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. Options for alternative, including natural technologies, for wastewater treatment have been In terms of projects aimed at the reviewed. improvement of the water and sewerage infrastructure. The project ensures the sustainability of the investment. The WFD requires the assessment of the sustainability of the investment, and effectiveness and affordability are calculated cumulatively for all existing and planned costs of the operator. The project envisages measures to improve the water supply system. In the event that the project should be implemented in a region with established drought or shortage of water and/or the water supply system is located in an area for which it has been established that it constantly fails to meet the quality requirements of Ordinance № 9 on the quality requirements for water intended for drinking and domestic purposes. The activities laid down in the project comply with the requirements of the Ordinance on the In terms of projects related to terms and conditions for recovery of wastewater sludge through its use in the agriculture adopted construction of WWTP. In the by Decree № 339 of 14 December 2004 of the Council of Ministers and the requirements of the cases where recovery of sludge was Ordinance on the bio-waste treatment adopted by Decree № 225 of 15 October 2013 of the from the wastewater treatment te Council of Ministers promulgated in State Gazette, issue 92 of 22 October 2013. plants and wastewater treatment facilities and its subsequent use in the agriculture has been provided. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for re-use of the treated wastewater. In terms of projects aimed at the improvement of the water and wat sewerage infrastructure. In case er of construction of sites which form wastewater. was The project provides for performance of activities on soil remediation and reduction of the soil te/ erosion by using resource-efficient approaches or through recovery of appropriate waste products soil for the intended purposes, including for the use of compost. The project provides for promotion of the Natura 2000 network, separate protected areas, species, wetlands and the benefits thereof, old trees and other natural sites.

The project contributes to the implementation of the following measures laid down by the NPAF: According to Measures 16, 12, N20 Measure 16 - Preparation /update/ harmonization of plans and other strategic documents; 39, 24 and 95 of the NPAF. 00 Measure 12 - Reduction of the pressure on the protected areas of Natura 2000 by launching pilot and energy efficiency practices in the settlements on and around the territory of the Protected Areas; BD Measure 39 - Construction and/or maintenance of facilities for public access to and around the Protected Areas of Natura 2000 Network; Measure 24 - Planning the development of green tourism around and/or on the territory of the Natura 2000 network; Measure 95 - Promotion of the opportunities of the “green” tourism. The project leads to energy efficiency/ reduces greenhouse gas emissions. clim The project provides for measures for adaptation to the climate change. ate The project provides a combination of implementation of energy efficiency measures in buildings. MEASURE 08 INVESTMENT IN FOREST AREA DEVELOPMENTAND IMPROVEMENT OF THE VIABILITY OF FORESTS Sub-measures: 8.1. Afforestation and maintenance- support for afforestation and creation of forests 8.3. Prevention of damage from forest fires, natural disasters and catastrophe events to the forests 8.4. Recovery of damage from forest fires, natural disasters and catastrophe events to the forests 8.5. Investments enhancing the sustainability and environmental value of the forest ecosystems 8.6. Investments in forestry technologies and in processing, mobilisation and trade in forest products Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. N20 The project provides for priority use of natural materials in the construction of roads. The criterion is included in the 00 SEA Opinion on the RDP 2014- and 2020 and is relevant to the BD planned activities. The project provides for planning of the roads in accordance with the topography and landscape. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on the RDP 2014- 2020 and is relevant to the planned activities. The project contributes to the implementation of the following measures laid down by the NPAF: According to Measures 43, 55, Measure 43 - Improvement of the structure and the functions of the forest habitats; 42, 69 and 100 of the NPAF. Measure 55 - Supporting the introduction and implementation of environmentally friendly forestry practices in the forests of the Natura 2000 network; Measure 42 - Support for funding the establishment and equipment of local voluntary groups; Measure 69 - Preparation of Fire Protection Plans and Fire Risk Management Plans; Measure 100 - Support for activities aiming to restore the forest potential after disasters in order to support the restoration of the ecological functions of the affected sites. The project envisages measures for climate change adaptation. clim ate The project results in reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In terms of afforestation and maintenance projects. MEASURE 09 CREATING PRODUCER GROUPS AND ORGANISATIONS Sub-measure 9. Establishment of producer groups and organisations Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. N The project contributes to the implementation of the following measures laid down by the NPAF: According to Measures 27, 14 2 Measure 27 - Associating of owners/ users/operators of lands/forests for further undertaking of and 58 of the NPAF. 0 joint activities; 0 Measure 14 - Marketing support of products and services produced / supplied by areas of the 0 Natura 2000 network; a Measure 58 - Support to the producers’ groups, introducing measures to increase biodiversity. n d B D MEASURE 10. AGRI-ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE Sub-measure 10.1. Payments for agri-environmental and climate commitments; Area 10.1.1. Restoration and maintenance of high natural value (HNV) grassland; Area 10.1.2 Maintaining the habitats of protected species in arable land of ornithological importance; Area 10.1.3. Control of the soil erosion; Area 10.1.4. Traditional practices for seasonal grazing; Area 10.1.5. Conservation of endangered local breeds important for agriculture; Area 10.1.6. Conservation of endangered local varieties important for agriculture. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes acquisition of knowledge/qualification and skills in the area of EP and CCP and adaptation to the climate change. w The project provides for introduction of water-saving irrigation technology. at er was The project provides for performance of activities on soil remediation and reduction of the soil te/ erosion by using resource-efficient approaches or through recovery of appropriate waste products soil for the intended purposes, including for the use of compost. N The project provides for partial cleaning of trees and shrubs in meadows and pastures and The criterion is included in the 2 retaining from 5% to 15% of their area in the properties in order to ensure minimum area for SEA Opinion on the RDP 2014- 0 reproduction of various animals (birds, mammals, reptiles, insects). 2020 and is relevant to Areas 0 10.1.2, 10.1.4, etc. of Measure 0 10. a The project contributes to the implementation of the following measures laid down by the NPAF: According to Measures 52 and n Measure 52 - Support to the implementation of agri-environmental measures; 47 of the NPAF. d Measure 47 - Improvement of the conservation status of species inhabiting agricultural and B forest ecosystems. D The project envisages measures for climate change adaptation. clim ate MEASURE 11 ORGANIC FARMING Sub-measures: 11.1 Payments for transition to organic farming practices and methods 11.2 Payments for maintenance of organic farming practices and methods Criteria laid down in legal requirements wat For the activities to be performed in the supported farms all permits required under the WA er (permit for water abstraction, permit for use of water body (construction of facilities in the backwater areas or retaining structures which change the riparian zone) and wastewater discharge) are available and the parameters and requirements of the permits are currently implemented. The equipment of the facilities/systems that measure the volumes of water abstracted are available/envisaged. The supported farms meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction, use of water body or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. The project provides for performance of activities on soil remediation and reduction of the soil was erosion by using resource-efficient approaches or through recovery of appropriate waste products te for the intended purposes, including for the use of compost. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for introduction of water-saving irrigation technology. wat The supported farms has provided conditions for fulfilment of the requirements applicable to the er excrement storage and the distribution outside the nitrate vulnerable zones to reduce the diffuse pollution with nitrogen (food) substances and organic pollution. MEASURE 12 NATURA 2000 AND WATER FRAMEWORK DIRECTIVE PAYMENTS Sub-measures: 12.1. Compensatory payments for agricultural areas in Natura 2000 network 12.2. The compensatory payments for forests falling within the scope of the Natura 2000 network will be made at a later stage, from the beginning of 2016. 12.3. The compensatory payments for agricultural areas included in the river basin management plans will be made after entry into force of the new RBMP, i.e. after July 2016. Criteria laid down in legal requirements The activities performed or losses relate to certain measures set in the RBMP in force and to the compliance with the prohibitions and restrictions in the sanitary safeguard zones. wat The supported farms meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services er and has paid all fees for water abstraction, use of water body or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. MEASURE 13 PAYMENTS FOR AREAS FACING NATURAL OR OTHER SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS Sub-measures: 13.1 Compensatory payments in mountainous areas 13.2 Compensatory payments for other areas affected by significant natural constraints 13.3 Compensatory payments for other areas affected by specific constraints Criteria which place higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas.

MEASURE 14 ANIMAL WELFARE Sub-measures: 14.1 Payments for animal welfare in Large Ruminants Sector 14.2 Payments for animal welfare in Small Ruminants Sector MEASURE 15 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND SERVICES RELATED TO THE CLIMATE IN THE FORESTRY AND FOREST CONSERVATION Sub-measures: 15.2. Payments for forest environmental commitments and services related to the climate - this sub-measure will apply from the beginning of 2016 due to the lack of control system. 15.2. Support for conservation and maintenance of forest genetic resources Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. N20 The project provides for mechanism for conservation of habitats, biotope trees and nesting and The criterion is included in the 00 rest areas of endangered species. SEA Opinion on the RDP 2014- and 2020 and is relevant to the BD planned activities. MEASURE 16 COOPERATION Sub-measures: 16.1. Support for formation and functioning of task forces within the European Innovation Partnership (EIP) for agricultural productivity and sustainability 16.2. Support for pilot projects and development of new products, practices, processes and technologies 16.4. Support for horizontal and vertical cooperation between the participants in the supply chain for creation and development of short supply chains and local markets. Support for promotion activities at local level related to the short supply chains and local markets development. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes acquisition of knowledge and skills in the area of EP and CCP (e.g. energy saving, resources, adaptation measures etc.). The project provides for development or deployment of innovative technologies which wat correspond to the priorities identified in the Water Innovation Strategic Plan approved within the er European Innovation Partnership. The proposed/used new technologies introduce the best available techniques and practices. MEASURE 17 RISK MANAGEMENT The measure will be launched at the end of 2015 after the preparation of the required economic and financial analyses and the impact assessment on the loss from natural disasters and climate change which should be covered Criteria laid down in legal requirements The activities included in the project are laid down as a measure in the relevant FRMP. water Permits for use of water body required under the WA are available. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The facility to be built is 'green' infrastructure. The facility will provide protection and will water reduce the flood risk in both the agricultural areas and locality located at the river downstream. The project contributes to the According to Measures 69, 98 and 100 of the implementation of the following measures NPAF. laid down by the NPAF: Measure 69 - Preparation of Fire Protection Plans and Fire Risk Management Plans; Measure 98 - Construction and maintenance N2000 and BD of infrastructure needed to restore natural habitats and species; Measure 100 - Support for activities aiming to restore the forest potential after disasters in order to support the restoration of the ecological functions of the affected sites. The project envisages measures for climate climate change adaptation.

MEASURE 19 SUPPORT FOR LOCAL DEVELOPMENT UNDER LEADER (CLLD - COMMUNITY-LED LOCAL DEVELOPMENT) Sub-measure 19.1. Assistance for preparatory activities Sub-measure 19.2. Application of operations within the strategies for community-led local development Sub-measure 19.3. Preparation and performance of activities on the cooperation of local action groups Sub-measure 19.4. Current costs and promoting the strategy for community-led local development Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for acquisition of knowledge and skills in the area of EP and CCP (e.g. energy saving, resources, adaptation measures, protected areas and protected zones, biological diversity, etc.), including application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. The project contributes to the According to Measures 16, 86, 87, 89 and 92 implementation of the following measures of the NPAF. laid down by the NPAF: Measure 16 - Preparation /update/ harmonization of plans and other strategic documents; Measure 86 - Acquiring skills and public awareness on Natura 2000 areas where local action groups (LAGs) implement strategies for local development; Measure 87 - Capacity building of N2000 and BD stakeholders for sustainable management of lands/forests on the territory of the protected areas of Natura 2000 network; Measure 89 - Improvement of the farmers’ knowledge to develop and apply activities for biodiversity conservation; Measure 92 - Capacity building of stakeholders to develop and promote sustainable tourism in protected areas NATURA 2000 incl.vocational trainings and key competences trainings. PROGRAMME FOR MARITIME AFFAIRS AND FISHERIES 2014-2020

S E C T O R NOTES / / CRITERIA P RECOMMENDATION O L I C Y PRIORITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION № 1 PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE, RESOURCE– EFFICIENT, INNOVATIVE, COMPETITIVE AND KNOWLEDGE–BASED FISHERIES SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 1.1: Reduction of the impact of fisheries on the marine environment, including the avoidance and reduction, as far as possible, of unwanted catches Article 38 - Limitation of the the impact of fishing on the marine environment and adaptation of fishing to the protection of species Article 39 - Innovation linked to the conservation of marine biological resources Article 40.1(a) - Protection and restoration of marine biodiversity and ecosystems and compensatory regimes within sustainable fisheries Item.1(a) Collection of waste in the sea by fishermen  Criteria laid down in legal requirements w The activities comply with the Black Sea RBMP, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and a the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. t e r Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project uses the technological progress and sustainable fishing methods. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Programme 2014-2020 (MAFP). The project does not provide for change in the use of the fishing infrastructure. The criterion is included in the SEA Opinion on the MAFP 2014-2020. w Sites for waste containers are envisaged (ports, piers, etc.). a s t e The project includes investment in According to Measures 105 and 107 of the conducting business activities on NPAF. conservation of the biodiversity in coastal, marine and protected wetlands of the Natura N2000 and BD 2000 network and investment within the Natura 2000 when its areas affect fishing activities which have an influence on the habitats. The project provides for methods to reduce Method to reduce the emissions means each the sulphur dioxide emissions in order to knot, material, device or apparatus installed achieve the requirements of Directive on a ship or other procedure, alternative fuel 2012/33/EU amending Directive 1999/32/EC or method which ensures compliance, which air as regards the sulphur content of marine is used as an alternative of the low sulphur fuels, where necessary. marine fuels meeting the requirements of Directive 2012/33/EU and which is quantifiable and applicable. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 1.2: Protection and restoration of aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems Article 40.1 (b), (g), (j) - Protection and restoration of marine biodiversity and ecosystems and compensatory regimes within sustainable fishies - Construction, installation or upgrading of fixed or portable equipment; - Preparation of plans for the conservation and management of activities related to fishing in terms of Natura 2000 sites and special protected areas - Management, restoration and monitoring of Natura 2000 sites and marine protected areas; Article 44(6) Inland fishing and fishing in aquatic flora and fauna in inland waters Criteria laid down in legal requirements water The activities comply with the Black Sea RBMP. The activities comply with the Black Sea River Basin Management Plan, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project includes activities on improving According to Measures 45, 46, 48, 49, 5 and the structure and functions of the coastal and 88 of the NPAF. marine natural habitats and natural habitats of the wetlands; improving the conservation status of the species inhabiting coastal and marine ecosystems and wetlands; development of programme for consultation N2000 and BD of private owners/users of water bodies on application of practices related to the specifics of the management in the Natura 2000 network protected areas; building capacity of the stakeholders for sustainable management of water bodies and for production of aquaculture on the territory of the Natura 2000 network protected areas. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 1.3: Ensuring of a balance between fishing capacity and available fishing opportunities Article 34- Permanent cessation of fishing activities Criteria laid down in legal requirements The activities comply with the Black Sea RBMP. The activities comply with the Black Sea water River Basin Management Plan, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 1.4: Enhancement of the competitiveness and viability of fisheries enterprises, including of small-scale coastal fleet, and the improvement of safety and working conditions Article 30 - Diversification and new forms of income Article 44(4) Inland fishing and aquatic flora and fauna in inland waters Article 32 - Health and Safety Article 44(1)(b) Inland fishing and aquatic flora and fauna in inland waters Article 42 - Added value, product quality and use of unwanted catches Article 44(1)(e) Inland fishing and aquatic flora and fauna in inland waters Article 43.1 +3 - Fishing ports, landing sites, fish markets and shelters - improving infrastructure in fishing ports, landing sites and shelters, construction or modernisation of shelters to improve the safety of the fishermen Article 44(1)(e) Inland fishing and fishing in aquatic flora and fauna in inland waters

Criteria laid down in legal requirements For the activities to be performed in the supported enterprises all permits required under the WA (permit for water abstraction, permit for use of water body (construction of facilities in the backwater areas or retaining structures which change the riparian zone) water and wastewater discharge) are available and the parameters and requirements of the permits are currently implemented. The supported enterprise implements the measures to improve or maintain the water condition provided for in the RBMP in force. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project encourages the development in Depending on the project. the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU legislation and national legislation in these areas. Sites for waste containers are envisaged waste (ports, piers, etc.).

N2000 The project includes investments within the According to Measures 5, 88 and 107 of the and BD Natura 2000 when its areas affect fishing NPAF. activities which have an influence on the habitats; development of programme for consultation of private owners/users of water bodies on application of practices related to the specifics of the management in the Natura 2000 network protected areas; building capacity of the stakeholders for sustainable management of water bodies and for production of aquaculture on the territory of the Natura 2000 network protected areas.

The project provides for methods to reduce Method to reduce the emissions means each the sulphur dioxide emissions in order to knot, material, device or apparatus installed achieve the requirements of Directive on a ship or other procedure, alternative fuel 2012/33/EU amending Directive 1999/32/EC or method which ensures compliance, which air as regards the sulphur content of marine is used as an alternative of the low sulphur fuels, where necessary. marine fuels meeting the requirements of Directive 2012/33/EU and which is quantifiable and applicable.

PRIORITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION № 2 PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE, RESOURCE- EFFICIENT, INNOVATIVE, COMPETITIVE AND KNOWLEDGE-BASED AQUACULTURE SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 2.1: Provision of support to strengthen technological development, innovation and knowledge transfer Article 47 - Innovation Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. Eco-innovation in the area of water has been Pursuant to the Eco-innovation Action Plan: provided for. "eco-innovation is any innovation that leads to or is aimed at significant and tangible progress toward sustainable development water with less impact on the environment and increase of its sustainability or which results in more effective and responsible use of the natural resources". Appropriate methods based on the best available techniques for treatment of the waste waste formed by the aquaculture processing have been proposed. The project provides for investments in According to Measures 105, 5 and 88 of the conducting business activities on NPAF. conservation of the biodiversity in coastal, marine and protected wetlands of the Natura 2000 network; development of a programme for consultation of private owners/users of N2000 water bodies on application of practices and BD related to the specifics of the management in the Natura 2000 network protected areas; building capacity of the stakeholders for sustainable management of water bodies and for production of aquaculture on the territory of the Natura 2000 network protected areas. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 2.2: Enhancement of the competitiveness and viability of aquaculture enterprises, including the improvement of safety and working conditions, in particular of SMEs Article 48.1 (a) - (d), (f) -(h) - Productive investments in aquacultures Article 52 - Encouraging new aquaculture farmers practising sustainable aquaculture Criteria laid down in legal requirements The supported enterprise implements the measures to improve or maintain the water condition provided for in the RBMP in force. The supported enterprises should work on the basis of and subject to the terms and conditions of the permit for water abstraction or use of water body issued pursuant to the procedures of the WA. The activities comply with the Black Sea water River Basin Management Plan, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. The supported enterprise meets the requirements related to the recovery of the costs of water services and has paid all fees for water abstraction, use of water body or contamination. If it owes fees, it has taken steps to pay its debt. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project conforms to the measures relevant to Priority 2 of the SEA Opinion on the MAFP 2014-2020. Eco-innovation in the area of water has been Pursuant to the Eco-innovation Action Plan: provided for. "eco-innovation is any innovation that leads to or is aimed at significant and tangible progress toward sustainable development water with less impact on the environment and increase of its sustainability or which results in more effective and responsible use of the natural resources". The project provides for investments in According to Measures 105 and 107 of the conducting business activities on NPAF. conservation of the biodiversity in coastal, marine and protected wetlands of the Natura N2000 and BD 2000 network and investments within the Natura 2000 when its areas affect fishing activities which have an influence on the habitats. The project envisages measures for climate In terms of projects which include measures climate change adaptation. for innovation and productive investment in aquaculture.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 2.3: Protection and restoration of aquatic biodiversity and the enhancement of ecosystems related to aquaculture and the promotion of resource-efficient aquaculture Article 48.1 (k) - Productive investments in aquacultures - enhancement of the energy effectiveness and Renewable Energy Sources Article 48.1 (e), (i), (j) - Productive investments in aquacultures - resource effectiveness, reduction of the use of water and chemicals, recirculation systems reducing the water used to a minimum Article 53 - Conversion to eco-management and audit schemes and organic aquaculture SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 2.4: promotion of aquaculture having a high level of environmental protection, and the promotion of animal health and welfare and of public health and safety Article 54 - Aquacultures providing environmental services Criteria laid down in legal requirements water The project provides for implementation of the measures to improve or maintain the water condition provided for in the RBMP in force. The supported holding should work on the basis of and subject to the terms and conditions of the permit for water abstraction or use of water body issued pursuant to the procedures of the WA. The activities comply with the Black Sea River Basin Management Plan, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. Appropriate methods based on the best available techniques for treatment of the waste waste formed by the aquaculture processing have been proposed. The project envisages measures for climate climate change adaptation.

N2000 and BD The project provides for activities covered According to Measures 59, 28, 45, 46, 48, by the following NPAF measures: 49, 104,105, 107 and 5. Measure 59 - Support to the implementation of aqua-environmental measures; Measure 28 - Associating of owners/ users/operators of water bodies for further undertaking of joint activities; Measure 45 - Improvement of the structure and the functions of the coastal and marine habitats; Measure 46 - Improvement of the structure and the functions of the wetlands‘ habitats; Measure 48 - Improvement of the conservation status of species inhabiting costal and marine ecosystems; Measure 49 - Improvement of the conservation status of species inhabiting wetlands ecosystems; Measure 104 - Investments to improve the quality of surface waters; Measure 105 - Investments in business activities for biodiversity conservation in coastal, marine and wetland protected areas of Natura 2000 network; Measure 107 - Investments within NATURA 2000 network where its areas affect fishing activities with impacts on habitats; Measure 5 - Development of consulting program for private owners/ users/operators of water bodies to introduce practices in compliance with the specifics of the management of protected areas in Natura 2000 network. PRIORITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION № 3 PROMOTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMMON FISHERIES POLICY - CFP SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 3.1: Improvement and supply of scientific knowledge as well as the improvement of the collection and management of data Article 77- Data collection SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 3.2: Provision of support to monitoring, control and enforcement, thereby enhancing institutional capacity and the efficiency of public administration, without increasing the administrative burden Article 76 - Control and enforcement Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for collection and climate analysis of data in terms of the impact of the climate change on the fisheries. PRIORITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION № 4 INCREASING THE EMPLOYMENT AND TERRITORIAL COHESION SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 4.1 Encouragement of the economic growth, social inclusion, the creation of workplaces and provision of assistance for the suitability for employment and the labor mobility within the communities in the coastal regions and the regions of the inland water bodies, which depend on fisheries and aquacultures, inclusive of diversification of the activities within the fisheries sector as well as in other sectors of maritime economy Article 62.1 (a) - Preparatory support for community–led local development strategies Article 63 - Implementation of community–led local development strategies (including current costs and promotion) Criteria laid down in legal requirements The local development strategies take into account the priorities in the area of EP, CCP and resource efficiency, including the application of the requirements laid down by the EU and national legislation in these areas. The activities comply with the Black Sea River Basin Management Plan, Marine water Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The project provides for activities covered According to Measures 88 and 90 of the by the following NPAF measures: NPAF. Measure 88 - Capacity building of stakeholders for sustainable management of water bodies and aquaculture production on N2000 and BD the territory of protected areas of Natura 2000 network; Measure 90 - Acquiring skills and public awareness on Natura 2000 areas where local fishing groups (LFGs) implement strategies for local development. The strategies for Community-Led Local climate Development take into account the policies on climate change. PRIORITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION № 5 PROMOTING THE MARKETING AND PROCESSING SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE: 5.1 Improvement of the market organization for the products from fisheries and aquacultures Article 66 - Production and marketing plans Article 68 - Marketing measures Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. The activities take into account the information available in the Black Sea River Basin Management Plan and the data water collected for the purposes of Marine Environment Protection Strategy and Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 5.2: Encouragement of investment in the processing and marketing sectors Article 69 - Processing of fishery and aquaculture products Criteria laid down in legal requirements The activities comply with the Black Sea RBMP. The activities comply with the Black Sea water River Basin Management Plan, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. PRIORITY OF THE EUROPEAN UNION № 6 FOSTERING OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INTEGRATED MARITIME POLICY (IMP) SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE: 6.1. Development the Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP) Article 80.1 (a) - Integrated maritime surveillance Article 80.1 (b) - Protection of the marine environment, in particular biodiversity and marine protected areas such as Natura 2000 sites in accordance with the obligations laid down in Directive 92/43 / EEC and 2009/147 / EC; Article 80.1 (c) - Improve the knowledge on the state of the marine environment Criteria laid down in legal requirements The activities comply with the Black Sea RBMP. The activities comply with the Black Sea water River Basin Management Plan, Marine Environment Protection Strategy and the Strategic Action Plan for Environmental Protection and Restoration of the Black Sea. Criteria setting higher requirements These criteria are not applicable to direct award calls for proposals. N2000 The project provides for compatibility with http://natura2000.moew.government.bg/ and BD the Natura 2000 GIS system. The project provides for activities covered According to Measures 45, 48 and 88 of the by the following NPAF measures: NPAF. Measure 45 - Improvement of the structure and the functions of the coastal and marine habitats; Measure 48 - Improvement of the conservation status of species inhabiting costal and marine ecosystems; Measure 88 - Capacity building of stakeholders for sustainable management of water bodies and aquaculture production on the territory of protected areas of Natura 2000 network; SOURCES AND DOCUMENTS USED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE GUIDELINES

1. Methodologies for climate proofing investments and measures under Cohesion and Regional Policy and the Common Agricultural Policy, Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP) together with Milieu Ecologic Institute, GHK and Environment Agency Austria, August 2012 2. Commission staff working document “Technical guidance on integrating climate change adaptation in programmes and investments of Cohesion Policy” accompanying the document “Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions (an EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change), SWD/2013/0135, 16 April 2013 3. ENEA-MA Working Group on 2014-2020 Cohesion Policy and Biodiversity – Position paper, “Integration of biodiversity and Natura 2000 in Partnership Agreements and operational Programmes 2014- 2020”, March 2013 4. ENEA Working Group on Climate Change and Cohesion Policy “Improving the Climate Resilience of Cohesion Policy Funding Programmes”, November 2009 5. COM/2012/496, Amended proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, the Cohesion Fund, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund covered by the Common Strategic Framework and laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund and repealing Council Regulation (EC) № 1083/2006 6. COM/2011/804, Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund [repealing Council Regulation (EC) № 1198/2006 and Council Regulation(EC) № 861/2006 and Council Regulation № XXX/2011 on integrated maritime policy 7. COM/2011/627, Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on support for rural development by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) 8. COM/2011/612, Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Cohesion Fund and repealing Council Regulation (EC) № 1084/2006 9. COM/2011/611, Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on specific provisions for the support from the European Regional Development Fund to the European territorial cooperation goal 10. COM/2011/571, Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Roadmap to a Resource Efficient Europe 11. COM/2011/244, Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Our life insurance, our natural capital: an EU biodiversity Strategy to 2020 12. COM/2011/112, Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Roadmap for moving to a competitive low carbon economy in 2050

115 13. COM/2011/21, Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: A resource-efficient Europe – Flagship initiative under the Europe 2020 Strategy 14. COM/2010/2020, Communication from the Commission: Europe 2020 – A Strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth 15. COM/2009/147, Commission of the European Communities: White Paper on adapting to climate change: towards a European framework for action 16. COM/2005/0658, Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the review of the Sustainable Development Strategy - A platform for action 17. COM/206/231 Soil Thematic Strategy and a Proposal for a Soil Framework Directive COM(2006)232 of 22 September 2006 18. Regulation (EU) № 305/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2011 laying down harmonised conditions for the marketing of construction products and repealing Council Directive 89/106/EEC 19. S EA Opinion № 15-9/2014 approving Environment OP 2014-2020, Directorate General Operational Programme Environment of the Ministry of Environment and Water (http://www.moew.government.bg/files/file/Industry/SEA/Statements_EO/Stanovishte_EO-15-9- 2014.pdf) 20. S EA Opinion № 10-6/2014 approving Transport and Transport Infrastructure OP 2014-2020, Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications, Coordination of Programmes and Projects Directorate General (http://www.moew.government.bg/files/file/Industry/SEA/Statements_EO/Stanovishte_EO_10-6- 2014.pdf) 21. S EA Opinion № 7-4/2013 approving Regions in Growth OP 2014-2020, Programming of Regional Development Directorate General of the Ministry of Regional Development http://www.moew.government.bg/files/file/Industry/SEA/Statements_EO/Stanovishte_EO_7-4-2013.pdf 22. S EA Opinion № 5-4/2014 approving Innovation and Competitiveness OP 2014-2020, European Funds for Competitiveness Directorate General, Ministry of Economy and Energy (http://www.moew.government.bg/files/file/Industry/EIA/2014/Stanovishte_EO_OPIK.pdf ) 23. S EA Opinion № 16-9/2014 approving Rural Development Programme 2014 - 2020, Rural Development Programme Directorate of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food (http://www.moew.government.bg/files/file/Industry/SEA/Statements_EO/Stanovishte_EO_16-9- 2014.pdf ) 24. S EA Opinion № 11-7/2014 approving Maritime and Fisheries Programme 2014-2020, Executive Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture http://www.moew.government.bg/files/file/Industry/SEA/Statements_EO/Stanovishte_EO_11-7-2014.pdf )

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