On 4 February 2026, the second BOOST–IN co-creation workshop for Bulgaria was held in Panagyurishte, bringing together 49 stakeholders from the mining industry, policy institutions, research organisations, water utilities, NGOs and citizen groups. The workshop provided a platform for open dialogue on how to advance water reuse and circular water management solutions in the mining sector within the Srednogorie Region of Practice.
Through interactive activities such as the Brain Walk and the 6-3-5 ideation method, participants explored key challenges and opportunities for implementing innovative water reuse solutions. While advanced treatment technologies are increasingly available, discussions highlighted that the main barriers to wider adoption are not technical, but systemic. Regulatory complexity, lengthy permitting procedures, high investment costs and fragmented institutional responsibilities were identified as the most significant obstacles.
Participants also emphasized the importance of building trust and improving public understanding of water reuse. Ideas generated during the workshop included demonstration pilot projects in the mining sector, more transparent monitoring and communication of water quality data, and targeted awareness activities for municipalities, local communities and schools.
The workshop concluded with the development of three collaborative roadmaps focusing on knowledge, awareness and governance. These outline practical steps to strengthen cooperation between stakeholders, improve regulatory clarity and support the wider uptake of sustainable water reuse solutions in Bulgaria. Overall, the event marked an important step toward aligning stakeholders and shaping concrete actions for more circular water management.
